New evidence suggests humans were in Oregon more than 18,000 years ago.

Photo Courtesy of Becky Raines / University of Oregon

By Ella Hutcherson (Jefferson Public Radio)

Archaeologists have new evidence suggesting that humans occupied Oregon more than 18,000 years ago. This makes it one of the oldest known sites of human occupation in North America.

A 2023 radiocarbon dating analysis was made based on findings at the Rimrock Draw Rockshelter near Burns, Oregon. The University of Oregon Archaeological Field School has been excavating at the site, which features a shallow overhang in an otherwise open environment. The field school has been working in partnership with the Bureau of Land Management since 2011.

UO staff archaeologist Patrick O’Grady said in 2012 the team found telling objects — camel tooth enamel fragments and a human-made tool — deep in the rock shelter, buried underneath the ash of a Mt. St. Helens eruption from over 15,000 years ago.

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The minimum wage is set to increase July 1st. Learn more here.

ByAmanda Arden, KOIN

PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) – Anyone who works a minimum wage job in Oregon will get a raise starting July 1.

In all parts of the state, the minimum wage will increase. However, in Oregon, the minimum wage is not equal across the state.

Oregon’s minimum wage is divided into three areas: the Portland metro area, the “standard” area, and the non-urban area.

In the Portland metro area, minimum wage will top $15 per hour for the first time. On July 1, 2023 it will jump from $14.75 to $15.45 per hour.

The standard minimum wage will increase from $13.50 to $14.20.

The non-urban minimum wage will increase from $12.50 to $13.20.

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