Will This Area Remain Wild and Scenic? - Ellen Wood, Ronald Gregg, and Nickalaus Newport, Camp Sherman

Sent to Senators Westlund, Walker, Kruse, Metsger, Morse, and Rep. John Dallum:]

Re: SB 30 Metolius

I am writing to you because of the proposed destination resorts in the Camp Sherman basin. As a resident of Camp Sherman for 30 years and having visited the area many times in my youth, I urge you to protect this valuable and beautiful area. During the last 30 years, I have seen great impact on the environment due to increased foot traffic along the river, water quality deterioration, decreased wildlife, erosion caused by ATVs and much more. What will happen if these destination resorts are permitted, not to mention the added roads, schools and infra-structure that will be needed. The Metolius River has been designated Wild and Scenic. Will this area remain Wild and Scenic if this devastating growth is permitted. Last summer, at the Community Hall in Camp Sherman, summer and winter residents testified over and over again about the beauty of this area and how special it is.

In the Bend Bulletin, Jefferson County admitted that more growth would bring added money to the county. Should this be the determining factor in allowing growth? If Tom McCall were governor today, I do not believe he would support economic interests over quality of life. As a native 4th generation Oregonian and great-grandaughter of Charles Erskine Scott Wood, I urge you to support this Senate Bill without compromise.


Sincerely,
Ellen Wood, Ronald Gregg, and Nickalaus Newport