Keep The Metolius A Wild And Scenic River - Mike McAvoy, Portland

[letter submitted to the Oregonian:]

Dear Editor,

Development once again threatens Oregon’s waterways. Two massive mega-resort developments – over 13,000 acres and 4000 units are being planned along one of Oregon’s most fragile and pristine wilderness areas – the Metolius River. Developers are working back room deals with politicians to push this development into the Metolius River basin which has federal recognition as a Wild and Scenic River.

Sen. Ben Westlund, D-Tumalo, has introduced Senate Bill 30 on the behalf of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, in an effort to stave off development along the Metolius, one of the West’s most beautiful river basins. The Metolius, known as a blue ribbon fishery, is a cool, clear river fed by underground springs and aquifers before heading on to Lake Billy Chinook. This gem of a river is home to numerous native fish species including the Federally protected threatened Bull Trout and is an area popular with campers, hikers, kayakers, fishermen and women, nature lovers and bird watching enthusiasts The town of Camp Sherman is as it has been since it was first established – a stopping place for those recreating in the area, a place to grab a piece of pie, find out where the fish are biting, pick up necessities for the camp trip or just walk and enjoy the tall pines.

The Metolius is one of those very special places in Oregon which makes our state so unique. Amongst the trees and the rushing river, the Metolius is as it has been for centuries, a place of beauty to be enjoyed by all.

Oregon’s scenic areas are under siege by the developers bull dozers. The people of Oregon and our elected officials need to stand up and determine if we’re going to let our wilderness be bought and paved to be used as a playground for the rich.

I support Senator Westlund in his fight to keep the Metolius River a wild and scenic river – I support SB 30 and hope others will as well.

Sincerely,

Mike McAvoy
Portland, OR