With this bill, more of Oregon rivers could be protected

From sheltered streams in towering, ancient forests to desert rivers that carve through deep, rugged canyons, Oregon rivers are truly unique. Not only are they fundamental to the state’s identity and natural heritage, but Oregon’s waterways also support delicate ecosystems, offer plentiful recreational opportunities, serve as havens for aquatic wildlife and provide a clean drinking water source across the state.

Each of Oregon’s rivers has its own remarkable attributes. Here are just a few Oregon rivers to highlight.

• The Metolius River is known for its native rainbow trout populations, scenic passage past old-growth ponderosa pines and for being one of the largest spring-fed rivers in the United States. 
• The Illinois River boasts blue-green waters that provide exceptional habitat for wild salmon and steelhead and support the rare plants, including rare orchids, in the river valley.
• The John Day River houses one of the Pacific Northwest’s last remaining wild fish runs and flows through basalt cliffs, valleys, and colorful canyons, enabling an impressive array of wildlife species—from bald eagles to Pacific treefrogs.

Only 2% of Oregon’s 110,994 miles of rivers are protected by the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act.

Senator Ron Wyden’s River Democracy Act would change this, adding 3,125 miles over hundreds of Oregon’s rivers to the National Wild and Scenic Rivers system—a significant stride towards preserving Oregon’s extraordinary, life-sustaining rivers.

Passed in 1968, the Wild & Scenic Rivers Act empowered Congress and the Secretary of the Interior to protect sections of U.S. rivers in their free-flowing condition. National Wild and Scenic Rivers are protected from the construction of new federally supported dams, alterations and activities that negatively impact river flow and water quality. These protections also extend to riverfront public lands, safeguarding rivers from development, such as oil and gas drilling, that can compromise their natural, cultural, and recreational values.

The additional Wild and Scenic designations proposed by the River Democracy Act would safeguard the vital water resources and wildlife habitats of some of Oregon’s important waterways, including parts of the Nestucca River and the North Santiam River.

The critical wildlife habitats, priceless outdoor experiences, and countless benefits that Oregon’s rivers provide are irreplaceable, so we must keep them healthy. The passage of the River Democracy Act would be a victory for Oregon’s treasured rivers, enabling us to preserve their exceptional features and ecosystems for generations to come.