Derek Bratton

Tonya Smithburg works on the restoration of a mural in downtown Silverton, Oregon. The mural, originally painted by Lori L. Rodrigues, requires extensive surface preparation after years of weather exposure. SILVERTON, Ore. — Local muralist Tonya Smithburg is restoring a weathered historic mural in downtown Silverton, carefully preparing the surface so new paint will adhere through Oregon’s seasons, with the work expected to finish by the end of the month. Smithburg, who balances the project...

A fan discovered one of Pops’ treasures near Pettit Reservoir, laser-engraved it with “PopsRocksPNW,” and returned it to him. Pops now plans to hide the engraved keepsake at a local store in downtown Silverton. Photo By Derek Bratton SILVERTON, Ore. — A YouTuber known locally as "Pops" from the PopsRocksPNW community, placed a massive stone and dozens of smaller rocks and gems throughout Silverton neighborhoods aiming to lure residents outdoors for discovery and adventure. Pops is a...

A single dead adult quagga mussel discovered on the shoreline of a central Oregon reservoir has triggered an intensive monitoring effort as state wildlife officials work to prevent the highly invasive species from gaining a foothold. The mussel was found June 6 during a routine invasive species survey at Prineville Reservoir, marking the first time the prolific freshwater mollusk has been detected in or near an Oregon waterbody, according to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife....