Oregon Coast Explored

07/25/2026

Congress Considers Bill to Expand Seal and Sea Lion Culls in Washington

A proposal moving through Congress could expand the authority to lethally remove seals and sea lions across Washington in an effort to protect endangered salmon populations.

H.R. 9621, known as the Northwest Endangered Salmon Predation Prevention Act of 2026, was introduced by Washington Representative Michael Baumgartner and was recently heard by the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries.

If approved, the bill would broaden current authority under the Marine Mammal Protection Act by allowing lethal removal of pinnipeds, including California sea lions, Steller sea lions, and harbor seals, throughout Washington’s coastal and inland waters. The proposal would also remove existing requirements that lethal removals be carried out humanely by state or tribal employees.

The legislation has sparked debate among fisheries managers, lawmakers, and conservation organizations. Supporters argue reducing predation by seals and sea lions could help improve survival rates for struggling salmon populations. Opponents, however, contend there is insufficient scientific evidence to show widespread culling would significantly benefit salmon recovery. They also point to unanswered questions about pinniped populations, their diets, and the potential ecological impacts of expanded lethal removals.

The bill is currently under review by the House Natural Resources Subcommittee on Water, Wildlife, and Fisheries, where members will consider testimony and public input before deciding whether the legislation advances further in Congress.

As the proposal moves through the legislative process, both supporters and opponents are encouraging the public to contact their elected officials and share their views on the measure.

07/25/2026

Residents of Lincoln City gathered to protest a decision by local veterinarians and the Lincoln City Police Department not to pursue animal abuse charges involving Elyon, a German Shepherd.

The protest follows months of public concern after videos surfaced that appear to show Nicholas Mumma using excessive physical force on the dog. Another recording, reportedly made by a roommate, captures more than five minutes of what witnesses say is Elyon being shocked, with the dog heard crying and yelping throughout the recording.

Despite the videos and audio recordings, authorities have stated there is insufficient physical evidence of injury to support animal abuse charges, citing the lack of visible physical marks on the dog. That decision has drawn criticism from community members, who argue the available recordings should be enough to warrant criminal charges and a more thorough investigation.

07/25/2026

USCG coming in for a landing. I missed my calling, should have been a pilot ;) 🚁

07/25/2026

The proposed measure that sought to ban hunting, fishing, livestock farming, and other animal-related practices in Oregon will not appear on the November ballot after falling short of the required number of valid signatures.

On Friday, the Oregon Secretary of State’s Elections Division announced that the petition, known as the PEACE (People for the Elimination of Animal Cruelty Exemption) Act, failed to qualify after completing its signature verification process. Of the 142,347 signatures submitted, officials determined that 104,262 were valid—about 73% of the total. The initiative needed 117,173 valid signatures to earn a place on the ballot.

The proposed measure would have asked voters whether to make the killing and breeding of animals for purposes such as farming, ranching, hunting, and fishing a criminal offense in Oregon.

Supporters of the petition previously acknowledged they did not expect the measure to pass but said their goal was to raise awareness and spark discussion about animal welfare. Although the campaign initially appeared to be gaining momentum, it failed to meet the state’s signature verification requirements after a second review of submitted signatures.

07/24/2026

Be alert even on the coast. ‼️

OSP Investigating Report of Suspects Impersonating Law Enforcement in Clackamas County

The Oregon State Police, with assistance from the FBI, is investigating a disturbing incident in Clackamas County involving individuals accused of posing as law enforcement officers.

According to investigators, the incident happened on the afternoon of July 17 along Highway 211 near South Barlow Road. A driver reported pulling over after a blue or gray SUV activated red and blue emergency-style lights, leading them to believe they were being stopped by police.

Three suspects were reportedly involved. One, armed with a rifle, identified himself as an ICE officer before the victim was forcibly removed from their vehicle, searched, and detained in the suspects’ SUV. During the 15- to 20-minute detention, the victim said they were assaulted by another suspect acting as a guard before eventually being released.

The suspects were described as wearing tactical-style clothing, including green long-sleeve shirts, tactical vests labeled “POLICE,” badges, baseball caps, face coverings, and boots. The SUV was described as a newer blue or gray model with no visible license plates.

After seeking medical treatment, the victim began receiving text messages from 971-502-5548 from someone claiming to represent a law firm offering legal assistance related to the incident. Investigators are asking anyone who has received similar messages to come forward.

Federal authorities have confirmed the suspects were not legitimate federal law enforcement officers.

Anyone who witnessed suspicious activity in the area on July 17 or has information about the suspects is urged to contact Oregon State Police at 800-442-0776 or *OSP (*677) from a mobile phone. Please reference case SP26-237961

07/24/2026

PSA:

I’ve used Google, but honestly the selection sucks. Name some property management places that rent HOUSES! 😉 in Newport to LC ⬇️ Tia. Guess I’m not the only one looking, I’ve got a few messages recently asking same question. Dolphin, Scotch over priced so dont list them 😉

07/24/2026

Each August, the coastal town of Seaside transforms into a global hub for beach volleyball, drawing massive crowds and elite competitors to its iconic shoreline. This year’s event will take place August 5–9, continuing a tradition that has grown far beyond its humble beginnings.

The tournament first began in 1982, sparked by a high school student who was inspired after a trip to Argentina. What started as a small fundraiser to support a local lifeguard stand featured just 57 teams from Oregon, Washington, and California, with 215 athletes competing in the sand. By the following year, interest had already surged, expanding the tournament into a two-day event with additional divisions.

Fast forward to today, and Seaside Beach Volleyball has become the second largest beach volleyball tournament in the world. Each year, tens of thousands of players and spectators from across the globe gather for five days of high-energy competition, community spirit, and unforgettable coastal atmosphere along the Oregon Coast.

07/24/2026

Three Reasons to visit Coos Bay and North Bend Coast:

The beach at Sunset Bay State Park near Charleston, where three parks combined are one of the favorite destinations on the Oregon coast: Sunset Bay for camping and the beach, Shore Acres for manicured gardens and crashing waves and Cape Arago for wildlife and rocky cliffs.

Coos County is one of the best places in Oregon for flatwater kayaking, including in the South Slough National Estuarine Reserve, one of the most pristine estuaries in Oregon.

The Umpqua Dunes in northern Coos County are the widest and highest in the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area. This section of dunes is closed to off-highway vehicles, so hikers love them. 🌇

07/24/2026

Found safe ‼️

FOUND SAFE

Eugene Followers ‼️
Missing & Endangered Woman Sought in Eugene

The Eugene Police Department is asking for the public’s help in locating 76-year-old Peggy Ann Jensen, who has been reported missing and is considered endangered due to serious medical concerns.

According to police, Jensen left the Nite Inn, located at 1522 W. 6th Avenue, at approximately 11:00 a.m. on Thursday, July 23. She has severe dementia and requires both oxygen and a walker, but she left the motel without either of those critical medical devices. Her current whereabouts and direction of travel are unknown.

Jensen was last seen wearing a pink tank top, black leggings, and black-and-white shoes. Police noted that the photo released with the alert was taken about two months ago.

Anyone who sees Peggy Ann Jensen or has information about her location is urged to contact the Eugene Police Department immediately.

07/24/2026

Heceta Head Lighthouse Beacon Shines Again After Repairs

One of the Oregon Coast’s most iconic landmarks is lighting the way once again. The historic Heceta Head Lighthouse has resumed full operation after repairs restored its famous beacon.

Perched high on the cliffs just north of Florence, Heceta Head has guided mariners along the Pacific Coast for more than 130 years. The lighthouse’s powerful beam, visible for miles offshore, is not only an important navigational aid but also a treasured symbol of Oregon’s maritime history.

With the repairs now complete, visitors can once again enjoy the sight of the lighthouse’s beacon sweeping across the coastline after sunset a welcome sight for both locals and travelers exploring the central Oregon Coast.