Water & Tech Backlash: In western Kansas, an Oregon-based company, Triple Oak Power, drew scrutiny over a proposed data center’s reported 600 million gallons a year—locals worry about strain on the Ogallala Aquifer, even as the firm argues it would use less than current irrigation. Broadband & Environmental Risk: In Southern Humboldt, California, residents reported a white, opaque plume in Redwood Creek traced to drilling waste dumped during a rural broadband buildout—raising questions about contractor handling and water protection. Energy Policy in Court: A federal judge vacated IRS guidance that tightened the “5% safe harbor” for wind and certain solar tax credits, a win backed by groups including the Oregon Environmental Council. Oregon Public Health: OHA updated wildfire smoke guidance for children and youth, emphasizing lower exposure harm and clearer AQI-based participation decisions for schools and youth groups. Campus Tech: OSU’s Extended Reality Theater is set to open in spring 2026, built with Oregon motion-capture partners including OptiTrack. Immigration & Tech Hiring: Oregon AG Dan Rayfield won a court order vacating Trump’s $100,000 H-1B fee policy, blocking a major cost barrier for employers. Space Weather: NOAA issued a G3-STRONG geomagnetic storm watch, with aurora possible as far south as Oregon.