Situated in scenic Central Oregon, Jefferson County is a blend of industry, agriculture and recreation. Residents enjoy panoramic mountain vistas, countless recreational opportunities and friendly people. The county offers a slower pace, and if it matters to you – it’s the closest of Central Oregon’s towns to Portland. Homesteaded at the turn of the 20th century and incorporated in 1911, dryland farming was the core of the local economy until irrigation arrived in 1937. Madras is a caring community with significant collaboration between residents, businesses, government, service organizations and churches to provide a top-notch quality of life for all ages. The city has an exceptional aquatic center, extensive green spaces, a trail system and a new fishing pond – all surrounded by the Cascade mountains and nearby desert buttes.