February 24, 2025 3:05 a.m.

Local law enforcement K9 teams are getting set to hold their first event of the year.

The nonprofit Friends of Umpqua Valley Police K9 Programs will host the “Hops for K9 Cops” event on Sunday March 9th at 2:00 p.m. at Backside Brewing on Northeast O’Dell Avenue in Roseburg.

It will feature multi-agency teams that will talk about their K9 programs, answer questions, provide opportunities to meet the canines up close, provide photo opportunities and more.

Agencies supported by the local program include the Roseburg Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, Winston Police Department, Douglas Interagency Narcotics Team and the Reedsport Police Department. Board Chair Rosemarie Wess said, “Having such a community-supported program in Douglas County helps enhance law enforcement by providing detection abilities and aiding their human partners in arrests, searches and as a deterrence in harmful situations”.

Due to limited seating, purchasing tickets in advance is encouraged. Those interested can go to: https://friendsofuvk9.square.site/. Tickets are $50 per person or $25 for children aged 14 and under. Prices will increase by $10 for those purchasing tickets after March 4th. The afternoon includes a pizza buffet, dessert and drink as well.

For more information on Friends of Umpqua Valley Police K9 Programs, go to: www.uvk9.org.