Propigation Fair
If you like the idea of home grown produce, there’s an event coming this Saturday that you’ll want to attend.
“Siuslaw Region Spring Garden Propagation Fair”. Erick Oshell is with the Agrarian Sharing Network with the goal of:
“Promoting and preserving heritage and rare fruits as well as heirloom seeds and developing a land race of different plants that grow well here in Oregon.”
Oshell says you can pick out a “scion” from an apple or pear tree at the fair and for a small donation volunteers will graft it onto a hardy root stock for you to take home. In addition to fruit trees, there will be a wide selection of seeds brought by others to swap or even share.
“Don’t feel like you need to bring something if you don’t have anything. But if you do have extra seeds, you’re welcome to bring those and we’re collecting them and redistributing them at our other fairs.”
The Propagation Fair is this Saturday from 11 to 3 at the Florence Senior and Activity Center on Kingwood Street near the airport. Oshell says there will also be several speakers on a variety of topics including how to grow a robust and healthy garden on the Oregon Coast. It’s free to attend.
Gas Prices
Gas prices are climbing once again— and this time, it’s not about tariffs. The seasonal switch to more expensive summer-blend fuel is driving pump prices higher across the country. AAA says the national average for regular unleaded rose six cents this week to $3.14 a gallon, while Oregon’s average climbed three cents to $3.75. In Florence, the average price is now $3.59 a gallon. According to AAA, these springtime hikes are typical, with refineries transitioning to blends that perform better in warmer weather. Despite the uptick, prices remain about 40 cents lower than a year ago.
Siuslaw Vision
Siuslaw Vision is partnering with Lane County’s Community Organizations Active in Disaster—COAD— to begin a local conversation about the role community groups play during emergencies. A public meeting is set for Wednesday, April 2, from 3 to 4 p.m. in the Bromley Room at the Siuslaw Public Library. The session aims to identify how nonprofits, faith-based groups, service clubs, and others can support official response efforts during disasters. COAD is currently expanding its network into the West Lane and Siuslaw region to improve coordination and communication during emergencies.
Rhody Parade Sign-up
Florence is gearing up for the 118th annual Rhododendron Festival Parade, and organizers are preparing for a colorful display of floats, costumes, and floral themes. The entry deadline for participants is Monday, April 28, with early submissions due by April 7 to avoid a $20 entry fee. This year’s parade will feature live announcing, judging, and prizes, continuing the long-standing tradition of community celebration. The Rhododendron Festival remains one of Florence’s most recognized events, drawing entries from across the region.
