The Wasco County District Attorney's Office announced a significant partnership with the United States Department of Justice (USDOJ) to enhance efforts in combating drug crime within the community. This collaboration will leverage the Special Assistant United States Attorney (SAUSA) program, a key initiative designed to strengthen federal and local law enforcement efforts.

Construction is set to begin the week of August 18 (delayed from the intended start day of July 28) on critical water infrastructure upgrades along Spring Street and North Main Avenue. This work marks the start of the North Main Booster Pump Station Project, a major investment in White Salmon’s water system designed to improve both everyday water service and emergency fire flow capacity for residents in the North Main/Simmons Road pressure zone.

The project is often described as the companion and connecting piece to the Federal Street Plaza which is scheduled for construction in 2026. It aims to bolster an event area and pedestrian friendly atmosphere for both locals and visitors while spurring economic growth in the historic downtown corridor.

Moving day at the Tygh Valley Fairgrounds: 4-H members are hauling in steers, sheep, rabbits and poultry, washing, watering and settling animals ahead of weigh-ins. Showmanship starts Friday. Youth Livestock Auction is Saturday at 3 p.m. Come cheer on months of hard work.

The Wasco County Fair & Rodeo opens Thursday, Aug. 14, at the Tygh Valley Fairgrounds, promising four days of rodeo competition, live music, family entertainment, and community traditions. Thanks to Waste Connections, opening-day admission is free for all.

The lawsuit aims to force the completion of “Well 7” at the Columbia Gorge Regional Airport — a source capable of supplying millions of gallons of water annually. Supporters say it could unlock long-delayed growth in Dallesport and surrounding areas.

New! Gorge Gigging Guide Highlights gives you a quick look at the week ahead in music, comedy, performance, festivals, and more! It’s a Great Way to get a handle on planning for the Best in what The Gorge has to offer! 

Renovation has everyone talking in The Dalles about a new clothing retailer. Everyone but company officials. Nevertheless, the renovation sends a clear message that a new store is coming. But which one?

With temperatures expected to exceed 100 degrees this week, we encourage the public to take steps to avoid heat-related illness. During severe weather events, supply bundles are available for those in need at The Gloria Center in The Dalles at 2505 W. 7th St. during regular business hours.

Every year, the county fair reminds us where we come from. It’s where we learn to show up and take pride in what we raise, build, bake, or grow. It’s late nights in the barn and early mornings in the wash rack. It’s kids learning that blue ribbons are earned—but blue jeans are lived in.

From gold panning to puppet making, and from dragon tattoos to movie magic, The Dalles Public Library is bringing summer to life with activities for every age. Whether you’re into crafts, games, music, or just trying something new, there’s something here to make your week unforgettable.

The 32nd annual Cruise the Gorge weekend is set to roll into The Dalles starting Friday, featuring classic cars, live filming for national television, and a full schedule of events for auto enthusiasts.

Coach Skyler Miller, from Orange, California — the visionary behind Lefty Elite — told the team to expect a few hiccups as they’d be playing positions rarely occupied by left-handers. Yet, the talented group of 12-year-olds defied expectations and quickly became the talk of the tournament.

Fast-moving flames and gusty winds triggered immediate evacuations in rural Wasco County on Wednesday evening, as a wildfire broke out near Eightmile Road and quickly prompted Level 3 “GO NOW” evacuation orders for residents west of Steele Road to Highway 197 and Five Mile Road.

As downtown The Dalles continues to grow with new energy and businesses, one Main Street shop owner is reflecting on how far the city has come — and how hard it still is to thrive.

Phase 1 cleanup - the removal of household hazardous wastes from wildfire-impacted properties - has been completed. The recovery effort is now entering an interim period that will enable impacted residents to return and survey their properties before Phase 2 cleanup operations begin.

Operations at the City of The Dalles Wastewater Treatment Plant are improving, but are not yet back in compliance after a recent plant upset that resulted in discharge to the Columbia River of treated wastewater exceeding the plant’s limit for E. coli. Wastewater treatment staff are working hard to restore the biological balance so that the plant can quickly return to normal operations.

A garage fire that broke out Monday evening, Aug. 4, at a home in east The Dalles was likely caused by a mechanical failure in an upright freezer, according to Mid-Columbia Fire & Rescue officials.

The City of The Dalles Public Works Department will be painting the center and side lines on streets throughout the community on Monday, August 11, through Thursday, August 14, 2025, beginning at 6:00 am each day, weather permitting.