Protect the scenic Wild Rogue!
Support expanded Wilderness areas for the Rogue River and additional protections for the surrounding landscape!
Despite its celebrated status, the Wild Rogue and its surrounding wildlands face ongoing threats. Proposals to bulldoze and clear-cut the old-growth forests that flank the river, including plans from local politicians to log right up to the riverbanks, endanger this pristine environment. Recently, the Bureau of Land Management proposed a logging project that would have clear-cut hundreds of acres of these wildlands. This proposal was only thwarted after a significant public outcry, underscoring the need for more permanent protection.
The Wild Rogue River is a treasure trove of natural beauty, boasting one of the most diverse and breathtaking landscapes in Oregon. From its mossy green plunge pools to the lush fern walls that line its creeks, the Wild Rogue offers a visual feast. Rocky slopes and talus fields add to its rugged charm, creating a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Visitors from around the world flock to the area to hike, fish, raft, and immerse themselves in its serene environment, activities that directly support hundreds of local jobs and contribute millions of dollars to the regional economy.
The ecological importance of the Wild Rogue cannot be overstated. It serves as a vital spawning and rearing habitat for salmon and steelhead, forming the backbone of one of Oregon’s most significant sport and commercial fisheries. These waters are crucial for the survival of these species and play an essential role in maintaining the health of our broader ecosystem.
The Oregon Recreation Enhancement (ORE) Act, reintroduced by Senator Ron Wyden, aims to protect the Wild Rogue. This critical piece of legislation seeks to expand the existing Wild Rogue Wilderness Area by approximately 60,000 acres. Additionally, it proposes the establishment of a 98,000-acre recreation area on the banks of the Rogue River, adjacent to the current wilderness area. This expansion would ensure the preservation of the river’s unique ecosystems and scenic beauty, safeguarding it from future exploitation and degradation.
Join our campaign to protect the Wild Rogue. Submit a letter of support to Oregon’s Congressional delegation, and help ensure that this remarkable landscape remains untouched for future generations to explore and enjoy. Your voice is vital in advocating for the passage of the ORE Act, a crucial step in securing the long-term protection of the Wild Rogue River and its surrounding wildlands.
