Transportation · Yreka, CA
The Yreka Western Railroad has been selected for a $60,230,094 federal CRISI grant to rehabilitate approximately 8.5 miles of track between Yreka and Montague in Siskiyou County, California. Congressman James Gallagher (CA-01) announced the selection on October 28 as part of the FY25-26 Consolidated Rail Infrastructure and Safety Improvements program. The project will replace aging rails and ties, upgrade track foundations, redeck bridges, replace some bridges with culverts, and resurface nine grade crossings to raise the line from FRA Excepted Track status to Class 2 standards. The railroad must provide a 25 percent non-federal cost share, though official announcements do not specify the source of those matching funds or a construction start date.
Public Safety · Siskiyou County
The Shasta-Trinity National Forest began prescribed fire operations on Monday, Nov. 2, 2026, near Mount Shasta and Weaverville, continuing into the following week as weather permits. The controlled burns aim to reduce overgrown vegetation and lower wildfire risk for local communities, infrastructure, and natural resources. Areas near burn sites may close to the public for several days; residents should watch for warning signs along nearby roads. Smoke exposure is expected, and officials advise checking AirNow for air quality updates and slowing down with headlights on when driving through smoke. Operations are weather-dependent and may be canceled at short notice.
Public Safety · Siskiyou County
A wildfire named the Michelle Fire was discovered at 1:45 a.m. on November 3, 2026, burning on private land in Siskiyou County, California. As of publication, no containment information had been released and the cause remained undetermined. The report originated from the National Interagency Fire Center.
Community brief · Yreka, CA
Concert violinist Kinga Augustyn and pianist Alexander Tutunov will perform classical selections at Preservation Hall in Yreka on Friday, November 20, at 7:00 PM. The event is presented by the Red Scarf Society for the Performing Arts, with doors opening at 6:30 PM. Tickets are available at Nature's Kitchen, Liberty Arts, Jupiter Salon, Soul Connections in Mt. Shasta, and Etna Hardware & Sporting Goods.
