Vol 35 #1 - Spring-Summer 2008 by Oregon Wild

Oregon Wild Formerly Oregon Natural Resources Council (ONRC)

Special Old-Growth Forest Issue

Spring/Summer 2008 Volume 35, Number 1

From the Director

By Regna Merritt

Dear Friends, In Oregon, as in the rest of the Pacific Northwest, we are at an important crossroads. Our population is projected to grow by about 27% over the next 20 years, and a study by Oregon's Employment Department shows that our reputation for high quality of life is one of the leading factors attracting people to the region. But will our increasing population degrade the wildlands, wildlife, and waters that make Oregon a special place? Or, as newcomers arrive, can we build on Oregon's green reputation to create a model of sustainability that includes our urban areas and extends into our wildlands?

OREGON WILD Formerly Oregon Natural Resources Council (ONRC)

Working to protect and restore Oregon’s wildlands, wildlife and waters as an enduring legacy. MAIN OFFICE 5825 N. Greeley Avenue Portland, OR 97217 Phone: 503.283.6343 Fax: 503.283.0756 www.oregonwild.org The email address for each Oregon Wild staff member: initials@oregonwild.org (for example: rm@oregonwild.org)

We believe that all Oregonians have a responsibility to help protect the forests and watersheds of Oregon. After all, they filter our air, store our carbon (stabilizing our climate), shelter wildlife, offer respite in a busy world, and provide some of the cleanest drinking water on the planet. We must, in turn, sustain these lands.

Executive Director.......................... Regna Merritt x 214 Conservation Director........................ Steve Pedery x 212 Director of Finance & Admin.............. Candice Guth x 219 Development Director......................... Mark Perin x 223 Wilderness Coordinator.................. Erik Fernandez x 202 Wildlands Advocate................ Wendell Wood 707.218.8355 Old-Growth Campaign Coord.......... Jonathan Jelen x 224 Grassroots Organizer................. Margaret De Bona x 210 Klamath Campaign Coordinator....... Ani Kame’enui x 205 Communications Associate ............... Sean Stevens x 211 Executive Assistant........................ Morgan Lange x 203 Membership Coordinator............. Cheryl Lohrmann x 213 Membership Asst. & Office Admin...... Alaina Smith x 200

If we are to succeed in this endeavor, we must reach out to Oregonians of all stripes - and Oregon Wild is doing just that. Through Oregon Wild Summer (see insert), we are reaching out to both newcomers and dear friends, connecting them to each other and to the special places we are working to protect. Through our Annual Outdoor Photo Contest, we will seek to capture the beauty of these places and bring it to those who cannot visit them in person. Through both activities, we will help nurture Oregon's conservation ethic and build a stronger coalition to protect our wildlands and waters.

WESTERN FIELD OFFICE Mailing Address: P.O. Box 11648, Eugene, OR 97440 454 Willamette, Suite 203 Phone: 541.344.0675 Fax: 541.343.0996 Conservation & Restoration Coord........ Doug Heiken x 1 Healthy Forests Advocate................ Chandra LeGue x 2 Conservation Associate .................. Timothy Hinkle x 3

On a family hike on Mother's Day, I was moved by the beauty of a tiny gorge, part of a larger landscape that will be protected when the Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Act finally passes through Congress. I thought of friends and members who, connected to these lands, have worked so hard to sustain them. With the recent flurry of activity in Congress around Mount Hood and Copper Salmon, your work will soon come to fruition. We still face tough challenges for Soda Mountain and the Wild Rogue but, with your support, we will conserve them for future generations as well.

EASTERN FIELD OFFICE 16 NW Kansas, Bend, OR 97701 Phone: 541.382.2616 Fax: 541.385.3370 Eastern OR Wildlands Advocate................... Tim Lillebo

OREGON WILD BOARD OF DIRECTORS President- Pat Clancy Secretary- Rand Schenck Treasurer- Megan Gibb Susan Applegate Jim Baker Gary Guttormsen

Mike Helm Chad Kromm

While we eagerly anticipate a new presidential administration, we’ll always need a conservation-minded citizenry to stand up for the lands and waters that sustain us. Please help us build this movement. If we succeed, we can become a model of sustainability, leveraging local gains to sustain Oregon and our small, beautiful Earth.

Brian Maguire Jane Malarkey Jan Wilson

ONRC ACTION BOARD OF DIRECTORS President- Pat Clancy Secretary- Jan Wilson Treasurer- Megan Gibb Susan Applegate Gary Guttormsen Tom Lininger Jim Baker Chad Kromm Rand Schenck Oregon Wild is a tax-exempt, non-profit charitable organization. ONRC Action is a tax-exempt, non-profit social welfare organization. Contributions to Oregon Wild are tax-deductible for those who itemize; contributions to ONRC Action are not. Staff are employees of Oregon Wild, which contracts with ONRC Action to carry out its activities. Portions of this newsletter are paid for by ONRC Action.

Oregon Wild

Cover: Camping at Frazier Lake in the spectacular Eagle Cap Wilderness. Photo by Cheryl Hill. ©

•2•

Spring/Summer 2008

By Erik Fernandez

Wilderness Campaign

Wilderness Campaigns Advance in Congress

s Oregonians, we have a responsibility to protect our natural areas for future generations. Because of your work and support, Oregon’s congressional delegation is poised to finalize protections for several gems around the state before the end of the year. Let’s get the job done and celebrate new Wilderness and Wild & Scenic Rivers in 2008! Oregon’s most iconic glacial peak is likely to receive Wilderness protection for its surrounding rivers and wildlands this year. Legislation passed out of committee and awaits a vote by the full Senate. Senate leadership, thanks to your pressure, has devised a plan to get around the obstructive tactics of Senator Coburn (R-OK). A similar plan is moving forward in the House of Representatives. It would protect 132,000 acres as Boulder Lake wildlands would receive Wilderness protection under the current bill moving in the U.S. House of Representatives. Visit this area during Oregon Wild Summer (see enclosed guide). Wilderness, including special places like Salmon River and Boulder Lake. rare bright spot. Protection for would protect 143 miles of Wild After ten years of hard work, our 13,000 acres has cleared House and & Scenic Rivers along the worldcoalition has garnered bipartisan Senate committees and awaits a final famous Rogue River. While this is support among the Oregon congres- floor vote in both houses! a huge step in the right direction, sional delegation, editorial support the Wild Rogue is imminently from Oregon’s major newspapers, and Soda Mountain threatened and deserves Wilderness support from businesses, locally The backcountry of the Cascade protection as well. elected officials, and thousands of Siskiyou National Monument, Oregonians who cherish clean water long defended by Soda Mountain Other 2008 opportunities and beautiful wildlands. Wilderness Council, remains threat- Spring Basin and The Badlands, ened by off-road vehicles and outstanding high-desert wildlands, Copper Salmon damaging grazing practices. Plans have not yet secured a congressional Located in the coast range of to protect roadless wildlands champion. In southwest Oregon, plans southwest Oregon is a treasure trove through designation of over 23,000 to expand the Oregon Caves National of old-growth wildlands and healthy acres as Wilderness moved through Monument are moving through the salmon runs, long defended by a key Senate committee in May. House of Representatives as part of Friends of Elk River. While we’re the Oregon Treasures legislation. For seeing salmon counts plummet in Wild Rogue the latest on these proposals visit general, the Copper Salmon area is a One exciting congressional proposal www.oregonwild.org/wilderness

Masaki Hisamoto

Lewis and Clark Mount Hood

TAKE ACTION: Please call Senator Smith today at 503.326.3386 and ask him to protect Wild Rogue Wilderness and Wild & Scenic Rivers this year!

Oregon Wild

•3•

Spring/Summer 2008

By Jonathan Jelen By Alex P. Brown ab@onrc.org

Old-Growth Campaign Update

Nanci Champlin

Old-Growth Forest Campaign Aims at Making History historic opportunity. The political tides are turning in our favor and more and more people are recognizing the value of these places. So, our Northwest Old-Growth Legacy Campaign is back in swing with one simple goal: permanent protections and restoration for our last remaining old-growth forests. We’re working with other conservation groups including Conservation Northwest, American Lands Alliance, the Environmental Protection Information Center (EPIC), and lifelong forest activist Andy Kerr. We’re doing outreach, lobbying, media work, and everything in between to make sure our elected officials know that these protections should become a reality during the next congressional session.

Sandy Lonsdale, Wild Earth Images

The wheels are already in motion. In a short time, we’ve generated well over a thousand postcards to our elected officials urging them to protect the old growth. Representative Peter DeFazio has drafted legislation aimed at oldgrowth protections and Senator Ron Wyden has indicated his intentions to do so as well.

Oregon Wild has been working to protect our magestic old-growth forests for over 30 years.

or over thirty years, Oregon Wild has been working to protect our majestic oldgrowth forests. We’ve worked to halt damaging logging sales, we’ve worked to spread the word about the threats that constantly face these

ancient forests, and we’ve worked to preserve rare plants and animals that call them home. While all of that work has been absolutely essential to preserving these special places, we’re now faced with a

All of this adds up to a very busy year as we take aim at making history and safeguarding one of the most unique and treasured parts of the Pacific Northwest. So, for all our members and activists, we’ll be counting on you to help us make this goal a reality and to be a part of this history in the making. Now, let’s get out there and protect our old growth!

TAKE ACTION: Please call Senator Wyden at 503.326.7525 and urge him to introduce and pass legislation to permanently protect our mature and old-growth forests. Thank you!

Oregon Wild

•4•

Spring/Summer 2008

By Jonathan Jelen

Old-Growth Campaign Update

Chandra LeGue

Old-Growth Forests = Global Warming Insurance

obal warming has become the most profound issue facing the world today, and humanity’s response to climate change will define our times. Over the last few years, the public debate over global warming has shifted from a “fact or fiction” discussion to a dialogue on how best to mitigate impacts and prepare for anticipated changes. So far, the solution proposals have largely been focused on getting more of our energy from renewable sources like solar and wind, driving cars that go farther on a gallon of gas, and implementing efficiency technologies to help us minimize our carbon footprint. While many of the proposed solutions will be important to any nationwide and worldwide effort to slow global warming, they are primarily aimed at reducing the amount of new carbon dioxide that is released into the Earth’s atmosphere. What can we do to mitigate the effects that carbon pollution is already having? What role can forests play in storing future CO2 emissions? Those are the very questions that inspired a new Oregon Wild report, entitled Climate Control: How Northwest Old-Growth Forests Can Help Fight Global Warming. The report compiles a growing body of research from the past decade and makes it clear that an essential strategy to combat global warming will be to unlock the potential of the Earth’s natural, living carbon reservoirs: old-growth forests. Specifically, the report debunks a lot of the myths that the logging industry has been spewing about forests and climate change.

Oregon Wild

young forests Myth Fast-growing absorb more carbon and are better for the climate than slowgrowing old forests.

currently serve as net carbon sinks. (A carbon sink is a reservoir that can absorb or "sequester" carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.)

forests store far more It’s better to store carbon in Fact Old carbon than young forests. Myth wood products than in forests. Most old forests are still growing and absorbing carbon. Mature forests cannot be converted into young forests without losing most of the carbon to the atmosphere.

Myth

Forests outside the tropics are unimportant because they do not contribute significantly to global carbon storage.

Fact

Pacific Northwest temperate rainforests can attain the greatest biomass per acre of any ecosystem on earth. Temperate and boreal forests are very extensive and Scientists estimate that 45% of all the carbon transferred to the atmosphere

•5•

Fact

Carbon is stored more securely in long-lived forests than in short-lived wood products. are not good places to Myth Forests store carbon because forest fires release stored carbon through combustion.

Fact

Fire is an essential ecological process that helps forests stay healthy. Carbon release from logging is far greater than release through natural fire.

by humans has been released due to forest exploitation. Though forest

Spring/Summer 2008

Old-Growth Campaign releases are less than total emissions from all uses of fossil fuels, many would be surprised to find that, in recent decades, CO2 emissions resulting from human-induced changes to forests exceeded CO2 emissions from the transportation sector. After the logging of an old-growth forest, the site remains a net source of carbon for more than 20 years and, depending on conditions, logged sites may not rebuild pre-logging carbon stores for a century or more. As a result of widespread clear-cutting and aggressive slash burning, the Pacific Northwest has contributed more than 1.5 billion metric tons of carbon to the atmosphere. Researchers recently measured carbon storage in several different types of old-growth forests in Oregon and Washington, both east and west of the Cascades. They found that carbon densities measured in Pacific Northwest old-growth forests were higher than

By Jonathan Jelen any other type of vegetation anywhere in the world. This research suggests that if we manage our forests for old-growth conditions, Northwest forests show a great potential for storing additional carbon in large, old trees.

X Protect all the mature and oldgrowth forests in the Pacific Northwest to maintain their ability to effectively store carbon and slow global warming.

Y Carefully restore previously logged young forests to nurture the next generation of old-growth trees.

Scientists have discovered that old forests continue to absorb CO2 even after tree growth appears to have slowed. This may be explained in part by the fact that old-growth trees send large amounts of carbon into the soil to support belowground ecosystems that help sustain them. Oregon’s forests alone currently capture half of the total greenhouse gas emissions in the state. If given proper protections, Oregon’s forests could potentially sequester much more.

Z Maintain the biodiversity in our forests to make them resilient to climate change.

[ Create strong market solutions that promote managing our forests to their full carbon-storage potential. \ Improve practices on private forest land such as lengthening harvest rotations and thinning instead of clear-cutting. If we do this, not only can we protect our amazing forests, but we can play a big role in saving the whole planet! View the full report at www.oregonwild.org.

Based on our report, here are recommendations for how to do it:

Rollin’ Up Our Sleeves at Black Butte

ometimes the best way to help the Forest Service protect old growth is to show them how it should be done. That’s exactly the thinking behind what Oregon Wild has been doing with the Black Butte Fuels and Restoration Project, a conservation-based thinning project near the town of Sisters, on the east side of the Cascades. For the past three years, Eastern Oregon Wildlands Advocate Tim Lillebo has worked with the Forest Service, local residents, other conservationists, and staff from The Warm Springs Tribes to carry out a conservation-thinning project on 1,200 acres of dry forest degraded by past logging and fire suppression. Our goal with the Black Butte Project

Oregon Wild

Tom Davis

some of the natural aspen groves that once thrived in this area, and simulate natural forest growth as much as possible.

Oregon Wild staff Tim Lillebo protecting old-growth Ponderosa pine at Black Butte.

is to help the Forest Service show the public and the Bush administration how to do a fire-risk reduction and ecosystem-restoration project the right way, protecting homes while also protecting the forest and wildlife. Overall, this project will help protect the old-growth forest, bring back

•6•

In the past year, Tim has led over 40 field tours of the site. Oregon Wild recently generated over 300 public comments on the project. An environmental analysis of the area has been completed and now it’s time for some on-the-ground implementation. We’ve enhanced the area for wildlife habitat by removing over two miles of fence and shutting down a cattle allotment. A great team of volunteers has been instrumental in helping advance this work and, with their help, the Black Butte Project is getting rave reviews. Working together, we’ll do even more great hands-on restoration work later this year!

Spring/Summer 2008

Oregon Wild proudly presents

OREGON WILD SUMMER Visit the places you want to see with the people who know them best!

or call 503.283.6343 ext. 210 All events are free, guided by experts, and require online reservations. Please leave pets at home. For your comfort and safety, wear appropriate attire and bring plenty of water, snacks and a lunch. Children are welcome but must be accompanied by an adult. Old-Growth Forest

Wildflowers

Waterfall

Fishing Trip

Family Friendly

Special thanks to Willamette Week and AM 620 KPOJ

Vista

S AT U R D AY, J U N E 2 1 Cloud Cap Hike

S U N D AY, J U N E 2 2 Pup Creek Falls Hike

T U E S D AY, J U N E 24 Herman Creek Hike

Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Strenuous, 6 miles, 2,200' elevation gain)

Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Moderate, 7 miles, 200' elevation gain)

Lewis & Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Moderate, 5-6 miles, 1,000' elevation gain)

Ascend the Tilly Jane Ski trail, replete with fields of bear grass, and descend the Pollalie Ridge Trail. Learn about dedicated efforts to save this beautiful wilderness. Carpools depart from Portland at 8:30am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

Hike the scenic Clackamas River Trail through a stand of old-growth trees to the stunning Pup Creek waterfall while learning natural history and the importance of the Clackamas watershed. Carpools depart from Portland at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

Cross beautiful Herman Creek and climb to the Pacific Crest Trail to take in sweeping vistas of the Columbia River. Carpools depart from Portland at 8:30am. Sponsored by Friends of the Columbia Gorge and Oregon Wild.

Lookout Mountain Hike

Fifteenmile Creek Tree ID Hike

Lookout Mountain Wilderness Proposal, Ochoco National Forest (Strenuous, 6 miles, 1,400' elevation gain)

Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Easy-moderate, 4 miles, 500' elevation gain)

Explore some of the finest old-growth mixed conifer and ponderosa pine in central Oregon on your way to spectacular views from the summit of Lookout Mountain. Rendezvous at 9am. (Camping nearby the night before strongly recommended). Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

Hike through one of Mount Hood's most diverse old-growth forests to a unique area featuring both wet-westside and dry-eastside ecosystems. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll learn the basics of Oregon tree identification. Carpools depart from Portland at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

Tamanawas Falls Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Easy-moderate, 5.5 miles, 500' elevation gain)

Explore a diverse old-growth forest along the crystal clear Cold Spring Creek leading up to the spectacular Tamanawas Falls. Carpools depart from Portland at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

Upper Middle Fork Willamette River Hike Willamette National Forest (Easy-moderate, 4-6 miles, little elevation gain)

Hike the newly designated Upper Middle Fork National Recreation Trail through a spectacular old-growth forest. Explore pristine springs and the last truly wild portion of the Willamette River. Carpools depart from Eugene at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

Babyfoot Lake Hike and Swim Proposed Kalmiopsis Wilderness Additions, Siskiyou National Forest (Easy, 4 miles, 500' elevation loss)

View wildflowers and conifer seedlings under the shade of towering snags created by the 2002 Biscuit Fire. Swim in Babyfoot Lake, nestled in a glacial cirque surrounded by trees that escaped the fire. Carpools depart from Selma at 10am. Sponsored by Siskiyou Project and Oregon Wild. Twin Lakes Hike North Umpqua Wilderness Proposal, Umpqua National Forest (Easy-moderate, 4 miles round trip, 100' elevation gain. Optional 7 miles / 700' elevation gain)

Hike to stunningly-blue Twin Lakes through a towering Douglas-fir forest. Enjoy wildflower meadows, lakeside relaxation, and an optional hike to a cliff overlook of North Umpqua wildlands. Carpools depart from Eugene at 8am, Roseburg at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild and Umpqua Watersheds.

Tamanawas Falls Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Easy-moderate, 5.5 miles, 500' elevation gain)

Explore a diverse old-growth forest along the crystal clear Cold Spring Creek leading up to the spectacular Tamanawas Falls. Carpools depart from Portland at 8:30am. Sponsored by Audubon Society of Portland and Oregon Wild.

M O N D AY, J U N E 2 3 Metolius River Hike Metolius Wilderness Proposal, Deschutes National Forest (Moderate-strenuous, 4 miles, 150' elev. gain)

Enjoy the stunning beauty of this central Oregon gem as you hike along the Metolius one of the healthiest rivers in Oregon and home to rare Bull trout and salmon. Carpools depart from Camp Sherman at 10am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 25 Fall Creek Evening Hike Upper Willamette Wilderness Proposal, Willamette National Forest (Easy-moderate, 4-6 miles, little elevation gain)

Fall Creek is well known for its old-growth forest trail, swimming holes, and recent fire. Enjoy an evening hike while exploring burned and unburned forest, and learning about natural processes. Carpools depart from Eugene at 3:30pm. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

T H U R S D AY, J U N E 2 6 Lost Lake Family Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Easy, 3 miles, 20' elevation gain)

Enjoy spectacular scenery with the entire family as you hike through an old-growth forest surrounding one of the most beautiful lakes near Mount Hood. Carpools depart from Hood River at 10:30am. Sponsored by Friends of the Columbia Gorge and Oregon Wild. Multnomah Basin Wildflower ID Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Moderate, 5.5 miles downhill, 2,600' elev. loss)

Join naturalist Wendell Wood for a slow-paced wildflower hike amongst old-growth forests, rock slides and streamside woodlands as you make your way down to the bottom of Multnomah Falls. Plant list provided. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

S AT U R D AY, J U N E 2 8 Big Bottom Old-Growth Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Moderatestrenuous*, 2.5 miles, 500' elevation gain. *Unmaintained trail. May require climbing over fallen trees.)

Register at www.oregonwild.org Marvel at huge Douglas fir, grand fir and 1,000-year-old cedars as you visit one of the most impressive stands of old-growth in the Pacific Northwest. Carpools depart from Portland at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild. Oregon Gulch to Jenny Creek Valley Hike with Birding & Plant ID Soda Mountain Wilderness Proposal, CascadeSiskiyou National Monument, Medford District BLM (Moderate-strenuous, 4+ miles, 350' elev. gain)

Wander cross-country through mixed-conifer and oak woodlands with ornithologist Pepper Trail, then ford Jenny Creek on this mostly downhill hike that ends at Rattlesnake Spring. Carpools depart near Ashland 9am. Sponsored by Soda Mountain Wilderness Council and Oregon Wild. Rogue River Hike Wild Rogue Wilderness Proposal, Medford District BLM (Moderate, 5-7 miles, little elevation gain)

Hike into proposed Wilderness along the lower Rogue River as you enjoy diverse forests, extraordinary wildlife viewing and clear creeks tumbling into the river. Carpools depart from Eugene 8am and Grants Pass at 10am. Sponsored by Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center and Oregon Wild.

S U N D AY, J U N E 2 9 McGowan Creek Old-Growth Hike Eugene District BLM (Easy, 1 mile loop, flat)

Bring the whole family along for a childfriendly afternoon hike in a spectacular, closeto-home old-growth forest. McGowan Creek, near Marcola, offers a living laboratory for learning. Carpools depart from Eugene at 1pm. Sponsored by Oregon Wild. Tamanawas Falls Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Easy-moderate, 5.5 miles, 500' elevation gain)

S AT U R D AY, J U LY 1 2 Browder Ridge Wildflower Hike McKenzie Wilderness Proposal, Willamette National Forest (Moderate-strenuous, 3.2 miles, 1,150' elevation gain. Optional 8.4 miles / 2,100' elevation gain)

Explore the diverse terrain of the Old Cascades as you climb through beautiful old forest and wildflower meadows to a stunning viewpoint of the Cascades. Carpools depart from Eugene at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild. Wahclella Falls Family Hike Lewis & Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Easy-moderate, 2 miles, 222' elev. gain. Trail not suitable for strollers.)

Follow boulder-strewn Tanner Creek to thundering Wahclella Falls on this short but memorable hike in the spectacular Columbia River Gorge. Great for the whole family! Carpools depart from Portland at 10am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

F R I D AY, J U LY 1 8 S U N D AY, J U LY 2 0 Iron Mountain & Echo Basin Wildflower ID Hikes & Camp-Out Santiam Wilderness Proposal, Willamette National Forest (Moderate, 3 and 4 miles, various elevation gains and losses)

Saturday: Join naturalist Wendell Wood and explore Iron Mountain, one of the most botanically diverse areas of the Oregon Cascades, then visit the outstanding old-growth and wildflower meadows in the Echo Mountain Basin. Sunday: hike the Cone Peak Trail with shaded forests, open hillsides bursting with wildflowers and outstanding views of the snow-capped Cascade peaks. Plant list provided. Campground rendezvous. Camping Thursday night strongly recommended. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

S AT U R D AY, J U LY 1 9 Boulder Lake Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal Mt. Hood National Forest (Moderate, 5 miles, 1,100' elevation gain)

Hike through old-growth forests and wildflower meadows to the aquamarine waters of one of Mount Hood's most scenic and least-known treasures. Carpools depart from Portland 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild. Umpqua River Appreciation Day Whistler Bend County Park, Roseburg

Bring the whole family and come celebrate the Umpqua River at this festival with live music, speakers, a giant salmon tent, and activities

for the children. Sponsored by Umpqua Watersheds. Upper Salmon River Fly-Fishing Trip Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Strenuous, 3-4 miles with some bushwhacking, 500' elevation gain)

Enjoy pristine meadows and cold, clear water while fishing for native cutthroat trout in an area worthy of permanent protection. Sponsored by Oregon Wild and Trout Unlimited.

M O N D AY, J U LY 2 1 Badlands Hike Badlands Wilderness Proposal, Prineville District BLM (Easy, 6 miles, little elevation gain)

Explore the unique geology of Central Oregon's own Badlands while in the company of a knowledgeable naturalist. Carpools depart from Bend at 8am. Sponsored by Oregon Natural Desert Association and Oregon Wild.

T U E S D AY, J U LY 2 2 Bald Mountain Wildflower ID Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest and Mount Hood Wilderness (Moderate-strenuous, 4.5 miles, not recommended for pre-teens and younger, 1,000' elevation gain)

Join naturalist Wendell Wood for a slow-going exploration of wildflower-covered meadows and rocky outcrops as you traverse the Pacific Crest Trail to a scenic overlook of Mount Hood. Plant list provided. Carpools depart from Portland at 8:30am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

S U N D AY, J U LY 2 7 Dog Mountain Hike Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (Strenuous, 6.5 miles, 2,800' elevation gain)

Take a challenging hike in the Columbia Gorge and be rewarded by scenic vistas, wildflowers, and lush forest. Not for the faint of heart. Carpools depart from Portland at 8:30am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild. Memaloose Lake Family Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Easy-moderate, 2.6 miles, 650' elevation gain)

A great hike for families! The distance to the lake is just over one mile and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be rewarded with a stunning old-growth forest and a lake teeming with salamanders. Carpools depart Portland at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

M O N D AY, J U LY 2 8 Angel's Rest Wildflower & Plant ID Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Strenuous, 6.4 miles, 1500 ft. elevation gain)

Hike the western end of the proposed Columbia Gorge Wilderness as you learn to identify the area's fantastic plants and wildflowers. Plant list provided. Carpools depart from Portland at 8:30am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 2 Lookout Creek Old-Growth Hike McKenzie Wilderness Proposal, Willamette National Forest (Moderate-strenuous, 7 miles, 1,000' elevation gain)

Experience one of the best old-growth hikes in the Cascades on this journey into the mossy haven of the Lookout Creek Trail. Carpools depart from Eugene at 9am. Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

S U N D AY, A U G U S T 1 0 Roaring River Hike Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal,

Mt. Hood National Forest (Moderate, 6 miles, 500' elevation gain)

Explore the largest contiguous roadless area in the Mt. Hood National Forest by hiking along the crest that divides Roaring River and the Salmon-Huckleberry Wilderness. Carpools depart from Portland 8:45am. Sponsored by Bark and Oregon Wild.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 16 Opal Creek Old-Growth Hike Opal Creek Wilderness and Scenic Recreation Area, Willamette National Forest (Moderate, 6.2 miles, 400' elevation gain)

Visit towering groves of 500-year-old trees and marvel at the pristine waters of Opal Creek. Rendezvous 10am. Sponsored by Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center and Oregon Wild.

S U N D AY, A U G U S T 1 7 Opal Creek Old-Growth Hike Opal Creek Wilderness and Scenic Recreation Area, Willamette National Forest (Moderate, 6.2 miles, 400' elevation gain)

Visit towering groves of 500-year-old trees and

marvel at the pristine waters of Opal Creek. Rendezvous 10am. Sponsored by Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center and Oregon Wild.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 23 Serene Lake Fly-Fishing Trip Lewis and Clark Mount Hood Wilderness Proposal, Mt. Hood National Forest (Moderate, 3 miles, plus wading, 200' elevation gain)

Enjoy backcountry fly fishing for rainbow and brook trout in the lake that forms the headwaters of the pristine South Fork of the Roaring River. Rendezvous east of Estacada. Sponsored by Oregon Wild and Trout Unlimited.

SEPTEMBER 19-21 Waldo Lake Family Camp Out Three Sisters Proposed Wilderness Additions, Willamette National Forest

Join Oregon Wild for a family-friendly campout at Shadow Bay. Enjoy old and new friends, updates on conservation campaigns, hikes and water play. Bring your canoe, kayak and swimsuits! Sponsored by Oregon Wild.

Oregon Wild thanks the following organizations for participating in Oregon Wild Summer: Audubon Society of Portland, Bark, Friends of the Columbia Gorge, Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center, Mazamas, Opal Creek Ancient Forest Center, Oregon Natural Desert Association, Soda Mountain Wilderness Council, Siskiyou Project, Trout Unlimited, and Umpqua Watersheds.

OREGON WILD

Formerly Oregon Natural Resources Council (ONRC) Keeping Oregon a special place to live, work, and raise a family since 1974

Enter the 2008 Oregon Wild

OUT DOOR PHOTO CONTEST OUTDOOR Capture the beauty of Oregonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wild places this summer and you could win up to $1000 in prizes! Visit www.oregonwild.org for complete guidelines. Submission deadline is September 30th.

Lead Sponsor

Amber Nelson

Old-Growth Campaign

By Doug Heiken and Chandra LeGue

Oregon Wild

Saving Old Growth from a WOPR of a Bad Idea istration. They will likely force through an ill-considered decision during their last days in power. But the WOPR is taking quite a beating from critics ranging from Congressman Peter DeFazio to the BLM’s own science review team. Even the draft Spotted Owl Recovery Plan, to which the WOPR is tied, has repeatedly been found to be scientifically flawed. Our hope is that the WOPR will not survive this scientific and political gauntlet.

Chandra LeGue

One inspiring outcome of the WOPR’s unveiling is that citizens have spent thousands of hours scouring maps and searching the woods to bring attention to fantastic ancient forests that would lose protection under this plan. For example, in the coast range outside Corvallis, dozens of intrepid forest lovers braved steep terrain and bitter winter weather every weekend to find giant 8-foot diameter trees in ancient hidden groves. These are the very trees the BLM intends to put on the chopping block.

Oregon Wild staff Doug Heiken (above) and Chandra LeGue work every day to protect and restore your old-growth forests.

he Western Oregon Plan Revision or WOPR (say "Whopper"!) is the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) plan to ditch the safeguards of the Northwest Forest Plan so it can increase logging of mature and old-growth forests by seven-fold on 2.4 million acres of low-elevation forests in western Oregon. The comment period on the draft Environmental

Impact Statement ended in January. Oregon Wild staff, members and conservation partners generated many thousands of thoughtful public comments. And, thanks to intense scrutiny by conservationists and scientists, new levels of bad news for this dismal plan are coming to light. We all know by now that science and facts don’t matter to this Bush admin-

In Eugene, local activists and students held successful rallies opposing the sacrifice of our public forestlands. And, all over western Oregon, rural residents rallied friends and neighbors against the BLM plan that would put their backyard watersheds, views, wildlife, and favorite places at risk. Engaging in this grassroots movement and exploring new forest gems has renewed our spirit and strengthened our resolve to defend them. Huge thanks to all who are helping build momentum for permanent protection of our mature and old-growth forests. Now let’s get the job done!

TAKE ACTION: Join Oregon Wild this summer on trips to your old-growth forests around the state. See insert and go to www.oregonwild.org/hikes/summer for complete details.

Oregon Wild

•7•

Spring/Summer 2008

Conservation Roundup

By Sean Stevens

Gary Kramer

Oregon Wild

Wolves, Waldo Lake, and a Wrecking Ball

In January, wildlife officials announced that a female gray wolf had been spotted roaming the WallowaWhitman National Forest. Arriving from Idaho, she is the fifth wolf known to return to Oregon since the species was nearly eradicated in the middle of the 20th century. Her arrival is a direct result of restoration efforts made possible by Endangered Species Act (ESA) safeguards.

Jim McCarthy

Oregon Wild defends wolves

Oregon Wild is keeping the pressure on to make sure the crystal clear blue waters of Waldo Lake remain pristine.

On March 28th, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service removed Northern Rockies gray wolves (which can range into the eastern third of Oregon) from protections under the ESA. At least 20 wolves have been killed since the federal delisting took effect. Yet scientists say that larger populations are necessary for complete wolf recovery and that, here in Oregon, healthy Idaho wolf packs are essential for wolves to return to our state. That’s why Oregon Wild, standing with a broad coalition of conservation groups, challenged the delisting in court in April. Since the science is with us, we have a great chance of reversing this wrongheaded decision. Stay tuned.

Waldo Lake gets its day in court Oregon Wild has worked to protect Waldo Lake from gas motors for over a decade. In July of 2007, we thought our work had finally paid off when the U. S. Forest Service decided to limit watercraft use on the lake to electric motors and good old humanpowered craft. Then the heir to a timber fortune challenged the agency decision in court, putting at risk the pure, crystal-clear waters of Waldo. In February, Oregon Wild staff and volunteers gathered at the federal courthouse in Eugene to show their support for keeping Waldo wild. Arguments are currently moving

forward in the case, with Oregon Wild attorneys standing beside Forest Service representatives in court to make sure the gas motor ban stays in place.

A “notch” 20 years in the making In early 2008, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers issued a final environmental review of their plan to “notch” Elk Creek Dam to allow threatened coho salmon to make their way up river to spawn. Next the Corps awarded a contract for deconstruction of the dam. Work is set to begin this spring and summer. Twenty years after Oregon Wild sued to put a halt to this wasteful and harmful project, the work to restore Elk Creek will finally be carried out!

TAKE ACTION: Become a voice for wolves! Pledge to support wolf recovery and spread the word about the plight of wolves in the West by joining an Oregon Wild Wolf Pack. Please visit www.oregonwild.org/fish_wildlife/bringing_wolves_back to take the pledge.

Oregon Wild

•8•

Spring/Summer 2008

Healthy Rivers and Watersheds

By Ani Kame’enui

Brett Cole

Klamath Dam Settlement Bad for Fish and Wildlife

Unfortunately, the settlement has provisions that preclude the watershed restoration desperately needed in the Klamath Basin. Instead, it provides great incentives for agribusiness. While the settlement is marketed as key to removal of the Klamath River’s four lower dams, the current settlement has no stipulation for dam removal. Dam removal depends entirely on agreement from PacifiCorp, the owner and manager of the Klamath Hydroelectric Project. Oregon Wild supports dam removal, but not at the expense of science-based flows for endangered fish and world-class habitat in the Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges. The settlement has raised concerns from fisheries biologists, hydrologists, Audubon groups, and conservationists. Independent evaluations of the settlement’s water plan reveal serious risks for salmon. At times, the settlement’s flows put the river below levels necessary for the health and habitat of chinook and coho, particularly during spawning. There are no minimum flows for fish in the settlement, but there are water guarantees for irrigators, even during dry years.

Brett Cole

n January, after three years of negotiations, the Bush administration released the $1 billion “Proposed Klamath Basin Restoration Agreement,” a product of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission relicensing process for the Klamath River dams. The settlement agreement is the product of complex discussion among stakeholders over the needs of the Klamath Basin.

Klamath National Wildlife Refuges must be saved, not sacrificed.

The settlement is also a bad deal for wildlife. Backers suggest the agreement will provide more water for the refuges, but the fine print ensures that irrigators will still receive top priority in drought years at the expense of wildlife. Worse, the deal would continue harmful commercial agricultural activity on 22,000 acres of Tule Lake and the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuges for another 50 years. Water in the Klamath Basin is severely over-allocated. In order to create a viable solution in the Klamath, we must start by bringing the demand for water into balance with what nature

can supply. The Klamath needs a voluntary demand-reduction program that works with farmers to buy back water rights for irrigation so that salmon and wildlife can receive the water they need. We must also phase out lease-land farms on National Wildlife Refuges for private commercial agriculture, both to reduce water demand and to restore water-cleansing wetlands. Finally, we need a real plan for the removal of the lower four Klamath River dams. Oregon Wild looks forward to working on a Klamath deal that safeguards sufficient water delivery for wildlife, fish, and farmers.

TAKE ACTION: Call Gov. Kulongoski's Citizens’ Representative Message Line at 503.378.4582. Encourage him to NOT endorse any agreement that sacrifices Klamath Basin National Wildlife Refuges and short changes water flows for fish.

Oregon Wild

•9•

Spring/Summer 2008

Inside Oregon Wild

Don Jacobson

Staff and Volunteer News

Jonathan Jelen launches into his new job during a staff tubing day on Mount Hood. His next feat of daring: saving our last remaining old-growth forests!

Welcome Jonathan Jelen, our OldGrowth Campaign Coordinator! Jonathan joined us in January after working with Environment Oregon and the Oregon State Public Interest Research Group (OSPIRG). Timothy Hinkle, located in our Eugene office, came on board as part-time Conservation Associate. Margaret De Bona is our new Grassroots Organizer in Portland. She honed her skills while working as a Farm Manager/CSA Coordinator and with the Youth Volunteer Corps of Corvallis.

Nanci Champlin joined a green design and architecture firm after serving seven years with us. We thank her for her deep dedication and many contributions, including initiation of our annual Outdoor Photo Contest. The good news: Nanci continues to produce this newsletter! Morgan Lange, former Membership Coordinator, has moved gracefully into Nanci’s position. We’re excited that Cheryl Lohrmann, who comes to us from the Northwest Film Center, has joined the Oregon Wild team as Membership Coordinator. Bill Erickson recently left for Yellowstone after being recruited by a sea-kayaking/rafting company based in Jackson, WY. We are grateful for his dynamic work to promote permanent protection for roadless wildlands.

for five years to protect the Klamath Basin, continues this important work with Earthjustice. We thank Jim for cutting electricity subsidies that encouraged fish-killing irrigation practices. Jim also worked with our attorney Bill Carpenter to negotiate a settlement with PacifiCorp on the hydroelectric power operations of Link River Dam in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Under the final settlement agreement, dam operations will be altered to provide new protection for endangered fish.

Ani Kame’enui now takes the reins of our Klamath Basin conservation work, leading efforts to build a stronger coalition of folks advocating for balance in the basin. Ani’s educational and practical background as a water resource scientist and educator supports our work for a sustainable future.

Jim McCarthy, who worked with us

Huge thanks go to our multi-talented volunteers who contribute in so many ways. Since January, they led snowshoe outings and spring hikes, worked to save precious old growth and endangered salmon, built signs, provided administrative support, sent photos, and made presentations. They represented Oregon Wild at the Children’s Clean Water Festival, City Repair Project’s Earth Day, The Better Living Expo, Oregon Wild Wednesdays, and the Douglas County Earth Day Celebration. Special praise goes to: George Olsen, Carrie Stillwell, John Schlosser, Patricia Brent, Barbara Galbreath, Amanda Ulbrich, Jane Malarkey, Susan Applegate, Pat Clancy, Rand Schenck, Gary Guttormsen, Andy Kerr, Roxy Hill, Jan Wilson, the Eugene Action Team, Jim Fenner, Helen Herner, and Nathaniel Talbot.

Thank you!

Oregon Wild

• 10 •

Spring/Summer 2008

Your Oregon Wild Membership

By Alaina Smith

Investing in Oregon’s Future

Legacy Donors Will & Mabel Pool

regonians since 1966, recreationists Will and Mabel Pool have long expressed support for the state’s wild areas through their major gifts and monthly support of Oregon Wild—but they wanted to do more. They decided to give a legacy gift, a bequest to help the organization achieve beyond its shortterm goals. They invested in Oregon’s future. Why choose Oregon Wild for such a significant gift? Says Will, “I can’t think of a more dedicated group of people or anyone who’s done more for Oregon’s natural areas than Oregon Wild.” Avid skiers and hikers, the Pools live near trails in the Columbia Gorge and spend considerable time on Mount Hood, where they have a cabin. Ramona Falls, Horseshoe

Ridge, and Dog Mountain are among their most-loved places. They joined Oregon Wild in the 1980s and enjoyed participating in the organization's hiking and camping trips. Along the way, they got to know the Oregon Wild staff. “They’re lovely people,” says Mabel. “Appealing, honest, and hardworking.” Will and Mabel mention their fondness and appreciation for Andy Kerr, Wendell Wood, Regna Merritt, and Tim Lillebo. All are dedicated conservationists who have worked with the organization for decades, some since the mid-1970s. This loyalty has helped Oregon Wild staff form meaningful relationships with the community and sustain a smart, long-term vision. That vision includes protecting Mount Hood, a place close to the Pools’

hearts. Will loves Mount Hood’s Badger Creek Wilderness area and was impressed that Oregon Wild (then called Oregon Natural Resources Council) played a critical role in designating the area as federally protected Wilderness. He hopes current legislation proposed to expand Mount Hood Wilderness will safeguard more of his favorite areas. The Pools have faith that Oregon Wild will play an important role in saving the places they care about. Will affirms, “I know Oregon Wild will keep on working to improve our environment and will protect what we have and continue expanding it.” Learn how easy it is to leave a legacy for the Oregon you love. Please contact Executive Director Regna Merritt at 503.283.6343 x 214 to request a legacy brochure today. Thank you!

Support Oregon Wild efforts to protect our wildlands, wildlife, and waters and help bring us one step closer to reaching our $100,000 goal by September 30, 2008. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to see your donation go further. Renew your membership or make an additional gift today. Just return the enclosed envelope, visit www.oregonwild.org/donate, or call us at 503.283.6343 x 213. Your support makes a difference!

Oregon Wild

• 11 •

Spring/Summer 2008

Erik Fernandez

Maximize your donation with the Earth Friends Wildlife Foundation Challenge Grant

Oregon Wild - Your Ticket to Summer Adventure OREGON WILD SUMMER June 21 - September 21

WALDO LAKE CAMPOUT September 19 - 21

Tom Kloster

OUTDOOR PHOTO CONTEST Submit by September 30

Amber Nelson

Neil Schulman

Deepen your connection to all things wild in Oregon with the folks who know them the best! Look inside for your complete guide to hikes, campouts, fishing trips and more.

Join Oregon Wild for a fun-filled weekend at one of the most pristine lakes in the world. We fought for years to protect this special place – now join us as we defend our victory!

Capture the beauty of the wildlands, wildlife, and waters that make Oregon a special place and you could win over $1,000 in outstanding prizes! Visit www.oregonwild.org for details.

Visit our new Oregon Wild blog at www.oregonwild.org

5825 N. Greeley Ave. Portland, OR 97217 Formerly Oregon Natural Resources Council (ONRC)

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Printed on 100% post-consumer recycled paper with vegetable-based ink.

NON-PROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID Portland, OR Permit No. 1694