Weather

Silt from floods removed from boat ramps

From a press release

Three Alsea River boat ramps have been cleared of silt from recent flooding and are open for use.

The county has cleared the Campbell, Mill Creek and Salmonberry launch ramps and associated parking areas, removing silt and debris deposits on those facilities created by recent high water in the Alsea River.

Solar power for Community Outreach

From a press release

Thanks to Community Services Consortium, Community Outreach will soon get a quarter of its electricity from the sun.

Design and installation services of the solar photovoltaic electric system are made possible through CSC’s Sustainable Resources for Consumers Program (SERC).

The SERC program, an extension of the CSC’s Weatherization Department, provides renewable energy measures to reduce electricity expenses to agencies serving people who are at 200% or below the poverty threshold. CSC found Community Outreach Inc. meets these requirements and their buildings make an ideal site for solar electric. Its south facing roofs and very little shade yield greater solar access.

How to report storm damage

From the City of Albany

In response to Governor Kitzhaber declaring a state of emergency on January 19, 2012, and the direction of Oregon Emergency Management through both Linn and Benton counties, the City of Albany is establishing a method for local residents to report estimated damages to their homes or businesses or loss of property related to recent extreme weather conditions.

Albany Fire Department staff will be taking damage reports by phone on Wednesday, January 25, and Thursday, January 26, 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.: call 541-917-7700, Option 0. 

Be prepared to answer these questions:
• Name of owner or renter of property
• Address of property, including county
• Contact phone number
• Is property a primary residence, rental, or business?
• Is the property a single-family home, mobile home, or multifamily/apartment building?
• What type of damage was sustained (five categories apply)?
o Affected – Habitable
o Minor – Homes that can be made habitable quickly and without great expense
o Major – Homes requiring costly or extended repair to be made habitable
o Des

Take health precautions after the flood

From Benton County

The Benton County Health Department is receiving reports of basement flooding in some residences. 

Often the source of this flooding is from sewage or combined storm water systems that have become overwhelmed because of regional flooding. It is best to assume that any flood water may contain dangerous bacteria or chemicals. If possible avoid contact with flood water. If you must work in flood waters wear boots, gloves and protective clothing to offer increased protection. Wash with soap and water as soon as possible after exposure to reduce your risk of becoming ill.

Police investigating crash

Police investigating crash

From Oregon State Police

Oregon State Police (OSP) troopers are continuing the investigation into the cause of Thursday afternoon’s crash along Highway 20 just outside Albany that injured an adult male. The man’s name will be released Friday after OSP has a chance to interview him.

Scio residents can evacuate to Shedd

An evacuation site for residents of Scio, Ore., is being opened at the Lighthouse Mennonite School, 31919 Oakville Road, in Shedd, Ore.

Central Linn sending students home early

Central Linn School District plans to release students from school early Thursday due to high water.

Elementary gets out at 2 p.m.  High School gets out at 2:15 p.m. 

Parents are welcome to pickup students prior to release time. the district said.

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