Fire Ban Imposed
Dry windy conditions have prompted the Lane Fire Defense Board and the Oregon Department of forestry to temporarily impose a burning ban for Lane County beginning today and continuing for at least a week. Warmer temperatures in the forecast make for an even higher risk as today’s temperature is expected to reach if not exceed 80 degrees here in Florence. The Lane Regional Air Protection Agency says residents can explore options to burning by disposing woody yard debris at a minimal cost at one of the many Lane County collection depots. Also, Florence has moved its collection date for yard debris to this Saturday in lieu of next week’s RHODODENDRON FESTIVAL. Temperatures are expected to fall next week and the possibility of rain is back in the forecast by the weekend of Rhody Days. Current burning conditions can be found at svfr.org or lrapa.org.
Construction Update
Crews were out paving portions of highway 101 yesterday as part of the ReVision Florence Project. Work on the street will continue until Wednesday, May 15th. Project Manager Megan Messmer said in a press release that the southbound lanes of 101 and the turning lane on 126 that are currently closed will be reopened to traffic in time for the 112th Rhododendron Festival. The far western portion of highway 101 that has traditionally been available for parking will, however, remain closed. Barricades and pedestrian routing cones will also remain in place. Parade spectators will be able to use both the east and west side of highway 101 including the parking shoulder for Sunday’s parade. The city is asking parade viewers not to move the cones. Construction will continue on May 20th and will halt for memorial day. Following that, construction will begin on the east side of Highway 101.
Farmer’s Market
The Florence Farmer’s Market will return for the season next Tuesday from 3-6 pm at the lot just west of the Veteran’s Memorial Park. This year there will be live music and classes ranging from growing to cooking to recycling. Vendors participating will be from within 60 miles and will include fruits and vegetable, eggs and meats and even a variety of prepared foods. Vendors will also accept SNAP benefits through their double up food bucks program where participants can redeem up to $10 in matching funds to purchase fresh, local produce.
