Joe Rizzo has built an accomplished career as an emergency management professional through his work with a number of governmental entities across Oregon. During his time as president of the Oregon Emergency Management Association (OEMA), Joe Rizzo played a key role in organizing such events as the annual conference. Every year, OEMA hosts a conference that welcomes its 300-plus members in addition to other professionals in the emergency management industry. In 2016, the organization continued this tradition by holding the event October 4-6 at the Salishan Spa and Golf Resort in Gleneden Beach. The conference opened with a color guard show and tribal blessing before attendees had the opportunity to attend a number of educational sessions. These sessions covered current trends in the emergency management industry and a number of other topics, such as overcoming arguments against preparedness and the lessons learned from the Loma Prieta earthquake.As part of the proceedings, the OEMA annual conference also hosted a number of keynote speakers. Among those on hand to share their expertise were Dr. Brittany Brand, a professor in the Department of Geosciences at Boise State University, and retired lieutenant general Russel L. Honore, who commanded military relief efforts along the Gulf Coast following Hurricane Katrina.
Having worked as a project manager as well as the director of emergency maintenance for Multnomah County, Oregon, Joe Rizzi has experience in a variety of leadership positions. During his free time, Joe Rizzi enjoys fly fishing.In previous years, October 30 marked the end of fishing on many lakes in central Oregon. But with the adoption of new state regulations for sport fishing, fishermen will have more time to enjoy the sport. With the new regulations set by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, lakes that previously closed in winter will remain open. These include East Lake, Big Lava Lake, and South Twin Lake. The change comes as part of the state’s goal to simplify sport-fishing regulations, while balancing conservation and management of the lakes. State officials would like to keep them open as long as possible for anglers to enjoy throughout the winter months, offering ample fishing opportunities before weather creates access issues.
Joe Rizzi has held numerous emergency management leadership positions, including director of emergency management for the City of Eugene, Oregon, and director of emergency management for Multnomah County. Outside of work, Joe Rizzi enjoys fishing Oregon’s numerous rivers and streams.Some Oregon rivers that attract visitors who enjoy outdoor sports include:- McKenzie River. In addition to its blue pools, numerous cascades, and beautiful cliff views, the McKenzie River features a 26-mile mountain biking trail. Those who enjoy fishing can also find three species of native trout in the McKenzie River.- Rogue River. One of the most well-known rivers in the state, the Rogue River starts near Crater Lake and extends 200 miles to Gold Beach. The Rogue River attracts both white-water rafters and anglers looking to catch steelhead trout.- Clackamas River. Located near Portland, the Clackamas River is the biggest river west of the state’s Cascade Mountains. Visitors enjoy activities such as kayaking, rafting, and even tubing down the Clackamas River.
