Dear Rep. Diane Rosenbaum, Chair, Election, Ethics, and Rules Committee:
I am writing to express my full support for Senate Bill 30 that would limit destination resort development in the Metolius River Basin. I speak for the river and its flora and fauna only, I do not own property there and believe that any further development will severely impact and possibly destroy a fragile eco system that should remain in its nearly pristine state. I just returned from a trip to California which included a visit to the Merced River just outside of Yosemite National Park. The Merced is designated as a federal Wild and Scenic River, just as the Metolius is, yet it is neither. California has allowed development of hotels and homes on the river just outside Yosemite's boundary and the results have created a river that is surrounded by concrete without any trees to support river health. I was struck by the difference in water quality, water temperatures and the lack of aquatic life as compared to the Metolius. The Metolius is a state treasure that offers Oregonians a chance to escape from the stressors of everyday life and to camp and visit for very little money. To allow for resort development in the Metolius River Basin such as what is proposed (and once you let any development in, you can bet more will follow) for the benefit of a very few, is short-sighted at best. Let's be honest with each other, these homes that are proposed are not for the typical Oregonian, they will be purchased by the wealthy few turning the Metolius into the playground for the rich and famous; and destroying a pristine watershed that all Oregonians and their future generations should be able to enjoy. The fate of this special place rests with your decision, please support Senate Bill 30 and protect the Metolius River Basin.
Ervin Siverson
Portland, OR
Saturday, May 26, 2007
Don't Destroy A State Treasure - Ervin Siverson, Portland
Dear Rep. Chip Shields:
I am writing to express my full support for Senate Bill 30, a bill that will protect the pristine Metolius River Basin from development that will destroy a state treasure. Destination resort development within the Metolius River Basin will harm a special place that all Oregonians and their future generations should be able to enjoy into perpetuity. Trophy homes, golf courses, and hotels do not belong in a basin that contains a federally designated Wild and Scenic River. I encourage you and all your fellow Representatives to have a vision for the future and support Senate Bill 30. Thank you for your time and support.
Ervin Siverson
Portland, OR
I am writing to express my full support for Senate Bill 30, a bill that will protect the pristine Metolius River Basin from development that will destroy a state treasure. Destination resort development within the Metolius River Basin will harm a special place that all Oregonians and their future generations should be able to enjoy into perpetuity. Trophy homes, golf courses, and hotels do not belong in a basin that contains a federally designated Wild and Scenic River. I encourage you and all your fellow Representatives to have a vision for the future and support Senate Bill 30. Thank you for your time and support.
Ervin Siverson
Portland, OR
Thank You Senators - Pat Krause, Portland
[Sent to those Senators supporting SB 30:]
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your vote to pass Senate Bill 30! Thank you for listening to the citizens of Oregon, for doing your homework and educating yourselves on the issue, and for recognizing that "development" is not always "progress" or "quality" to Oregonians. Thank you for having the wisdom and forethought to vote to save one of our greatest national treasures. You proved that you do care. You have showed the citizens of Oregon that you have the courage and conviction to protect and preserve the quality of life Oregonians want and deserve. A life that does include growth and success for the state, but not at the expense of our unique and pristine natural resources which can never be replaced. You make me proud to be an Oregonian!!
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, Oregon
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your vote to pass Senate Bill 30! Thank you for listening to the citizens of Oregon, for doing your homework and educating yourselves on the issue, and for recognizing that "development" is not always "progress" or "quality" to Oregonians. Thank you for having the wisdom and forethought to vote to save one of our greatest national treasures. You proved that you do care. You have showed the citizens of Oregon that you have the courage and conviction to protect and preserve the quality of life Oregonians want and deserve. A life that does include growth and success for the state, but not at the expense of our unique and pristine natural resources which can never be replaced. You make me proud to be an Oregonian!!
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, Oregon
Asking You To Do More - Pat Krause, Portland
Dear Honorable Members of House Elections, Ethics. and Rules Committee:
I am writing to implore you to support Senate Bill 30 as it was passed by the Senate. If this bill is not passed the current pristine nature of the Metolius River Basin will be destroyed. Once destroyed it can never be replaced. We must protect the Metolius now or future generations will remember that we did not have the wisdom or forethought to save one of our greatest national treasures - that we did not care enough.
The Federal government has already recognized the Metolius River and saw that it is protected as a "wild and scenic" river. Past elected officials stood up to those who put "progress" before "quality" and protected and preserved Crater Lake, The Columbia Gorge and our beautiful beaches. I ask you to do the same.
I do so appreciate your long, hard hours at a tough and demanding job. Now I am asking you to do more. I know you will take the time to educate yourselves about the dangers of allowing destination resorts in and near the Metolius Basin, but I ask you to also read the letters from the citizens and learn why the Metolius is such a special place to so many people. Then please show the citizens of Oregon that you have the courage, wisdom and conviction to protect and preserve the quality of life the citizens of Oregon want and deserve. A life that does include growth and success for the state, but not at the expense of our unique and pristine natural resources which can never be replaced, once lost.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, Oregon
I am writing to implore you to support Senate Bill 30 as it was passed by the Senate. If this bill is not passed the current pristine nature of the Metolius River Basin will be destroyed. Once destroyed it can never be replaced. We must protect the Metolius now or future generations will remember that we did not have the wisdom or forethought to save one of our greatest national treasures - that we did not care enough.
The Federal government has already recognized the Metolius River and saw that it is protected as a "wild and scenic" river. Past elected officials stood up to those who put "progress" before "quality" and protected and preserved Crater Lake, The Columbia Gorge and our beautiful beaches. I ask you to do the same.
I do so appreciate your long, hard hours at a tough and demanding job. Now I am asking you to do more. I know you will take the time to educate yourselves about the dangers of allowing destination resorts in and near the Metolius Basin, but I ask you to also read the letters from the citizens and learn why the Metolius is such a special place to so many people. Then please show the citizens of Oregon that you have the courage, wisdom and conviction to protect and preserve the quality of life the citizens of Oregon want and deserve. A life that does include growth and success for the state, but not at the expense of our unique and pristine natural resources which can never be replaced, once lost.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, Oregon
Metolius is Unparalleled - Mary Wood, Eugene
[Sent to all Representatives:]
I urge you to support SB30, a measure to protect the Metolius Basin from development.
The Metolius is unparalleled in its quiet, serene setting. This bill was crafted in response to predatory destination resort proposals that would destroy the basin and deprive future generations of this stunning natural area.
You are the trustees of the great natural resources we Oregonians enjoy. If there is one place to pass along to future generations, it should be this river, in its peaceful, natural state. Citizens from across the state come to this basin every year to experience its quietude.
It shocks the conscience to think that any public officer would approve a development proposal that would devastate one of the state's most supreme natural treasures. The county officials that approved this are allowing the profit of a few exploiting individuals to steal from what rightfully belongs to future generations.
Moreover, in this day of climate crisis, the last thing public officials should allow is more development that results in greenhouse gas emissions. The Oregon legislature cannot continue to turn a blind eye to this crisis facing the planet. It makes no sense to, on one hand, pass an energy bill to reduce carbon, yet on the other hand allow counties to approve developments that would result in potentially 35,000 car trips a day (3,000 homes multiplied by 9 car trips, which is the average according to Dept. of Transportation figures provided in separate testimony to the Senate).
I’d like to leave you with a few lines from a poem that my great-grandfather, Charles Erskine Scott Wood, wrote in 1921 as he was sitting on the banks of the Metolius River. He was a lawyer, an author, and a poet, and about 70 years old when he wrote this poem. I’m going to read you just the lines where he bequeaths certain things to his grandchildren. I hope it fills you with a sense of obligation to the future generations of Oregonians.
I Charles Erskine Scott Wood,
Make now my last sure will and testament
For those grandchildren who share with me this solitude
And whom I must too shortly leave.
I give all trout in the Metolius. . .
I give them mornings on the river-bank,
Song of the river when the new sun shines. . .
And the solemn discourse of the pines,
At evening when the melting shadows fall
And Peace sits on the bank with folded wings’
The birds all [offering] a good-night call,
And deep in dusk a yellow warbler sings.
The river is for their delight.
CES Wood, Poet in the Desert
Sincerely,
Mary Fox Wood
Eugene, Oregon
I urge you to support SB30, a measure to protect the Metolius Basin from development.
The Metolius is unparalleled in its quiet, serene setting. This bill was crafted in response to predatory destination resort proposals that would destroy the basin and deprive future generations of this stunning natural area.
You are the trustees of the great natural resources we Oregonians enjoy. If there is one place to pass along to future generations, it should be this river, in its peaceful, natural state. Citizens from across the state come to this basin every year to experience its quietude.
It shocks the conscience to think that any public officer would approve a development proposal that would devastate one of the state's most supreme natural treasures. The county officials that approved this are allowing the profit of a few exploiting individuals to steal from what rightfully belongs to future generations.
Moreover, in this day of climate crisis, the last thing public officials should allow is more development that results in greenhouse gas emissions. The Oregon legislature cannot continue to turn a blind eye to this crisis facing the planet. It makes no sense to, on one hand, pass an energy bill to reduce carbon, yet on the other hand allow counties to approve developments that would result in potentially 35,000 car trips a day (3,000 homes multiplied by 9 car trips, which is the average according to Dept. of Transportation figures provided in separate testimony to the Senate).
I’d like to leave you with a few lines from a poem that my great-grandfather, Charles Erskine Scott Wood, wrote in 1921 as he was sitting on the banks of the Metolius River. He was a lawyer, an author, and a poet, and about 70 years old when he wrote this poem. I’m going to read you just the lines where he bequeaths certain things to his grandchildren. I hope it fills you with a sense of obligation to the future generations of Oregonians.
I Charles Erskine Scott Wood,
Make now my last sure will and testament
For those grandchildren who share with me this solitude
And whom I must too shortly leave.
I give all trout in the Metolius. . .
I give them mornings on the river-bank,
Song of the river when the new sun shines. . .
And the solemn discourse of the pines,
At evening when the melting shadows fall
And Peace sits on the bank with folded wings’
The birds all [offering] a good-night call,
And deep in dusk a yellow warbler sings.
The river is for their delight.
CES Wood, Poet in the Desert
Sincerely,
Mary Fox Wood
Eugene, Oregon
Very Important Bill - Pat Krause, Portland
[Sent to House Majority Leader Hunt and Speaker Pro Tempore Rosenbaum:]
I am writing to urge you to support SB30 as it was passed by the Senate. This bill is so very important and needs to be passed before the legislative session ends.
The Metolius River Basin is one of the most natural and scenic places that Oregon has. It is treasured and loved by people all over the world. It must be protected for this generation and future generations. Having destination resorts in or near the Metolius River Basin will destroy the very things we all love and treasure about the Metolius - the delicate and fragile ecosystem, the fresh and clean air, the crystal clear water, the natural habitat for fish and wildlife, to name a few. Once destroyed, it can never be replaced. Please protect the Metolius and keep it as the "crown jewel" of Oregon.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, Oregon
I am writing to urge you to support SB30 as it was passed by the Senate. This bill is so very important and needs to be passed before the legislative session ends.
The Metolius River Basin is one of the most natural and scenic places that Oregon has. It is treasured and loved by people all over the world. It must be protected for this generation and future generations. Having destination resorts in or near the Metolius River Basin will destroy the very things we all love and treasure about the Metolius - the delicate and fragile ecosystem, the fresh and clean air, the crystal clear water, the natural habitat for fish and wildlife, to name a few. Once destroyed, it can never be replaced. Please protect the Metolius and keep it as the "crown jewel" of Oregon.
Thank you.
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, Oregon
Urging Dallum's Support - Kent Gill, Camp Sherman, OR
Dear Rep. Dallum:
[copied to the Senate Rules Committee]
Although you did not stay the course in sponsoring this important piece of legislation, I urge you to represent the broad cohort of folks who love the Metolius by voting for protecting the Metolius Basin from unwise, permanent despoilation. SB 30 in its full form deserves your favorable action.
An argument advanced by the Bend Bulletin editorials re SB 30 referred to the importance of supporting the local land use authority. That may be a significant abstract principle, but it hardly applies in this case. The Jefferson County Commission, made up of a shifting membership in the last dozen or so years , has consistently decided for development and against the significant array of natural values that mark the Metolius Basin. Folks long associated with the area have fought this series of measures espousing growth at any cost.
They have appeared at hearings, written letters, lobbied the officials, participated in mediation, all to no avail. So they have appealed decisions to LUBA and even to the Circuit Court. of Appeals. The county has been found to have erred in most every one of these unfortunate decisions. They have voted to turn the Basin into a cash cow of real estate values and property taxes while being most niggardly in meeting local needs. So in this case it would seem necessary for the legislature to overturn the county destination resort mapping andyo votie for the environmental values that have been noted and appreciated by generations of Oregonians.
Kent Gill
Camp Sherman, OR
[copied to the Senate Rules Committee]
Although you did not stay the course in sponsoring this important piece of legislation, I urge you to represent the broad cohort of folks who love the Metolius by voting for protecting the Metolius Basin from unwise, permanent despoilation. SB 30 in its full form deserves your favorable action.
An argument advanced by the Bend Bulletin editorials re SB 30 referred to the importance of supporting the local land use authority. That may be a significant abstract principle, but it hardly applies in this case. The Jefferson County Commission, made up of a shifting membership in the last dozen or so years , has consistently decided for development and against the significant array of natural values that mark the Metolius Basin. Folks long associated with the area have fought this series of measures espousing growth at any cost.
They have appeared at hearings, written letters, lobbied the officials, participated in mediation, all to no avail. So they have appealed decisions to LUBA and even to the Circuit Court. of Appeals. The county has been found to have erred in most every one of these unfortunate decisions. They have voted to turn the Basin into a cash cow of real estate values and property taxes while being most niggardly in meeting local needs. So in this case it would seem necessary for the legislature to overturn the county destination resort mapping andyo votie for the environmental values that have been noted and appreciated by generations of Oregonians.
Kent Gill
Camp Sherman, OR
A Degree Of Urgency - Celia Walker, Fort Collins, CO
[Sent to all State Representatives:]
I am writing this letter to you with a degree of urgency I don’t often feel. I’m asking that you support Senate Bill 30 to protect the Metolius River Basin from development.
I grew up on the Metolius – I attended the little Black Butte School (which prepared me for my future Fulbright Fellowship), I hiked the trails, walked the roads and fields, knew all the bends in the river trail between the salmon hatchery my Dad managed and the country Store downriver. I learned to predict the weather by watching Green Ridge and Black Butte. The ponds and creeks were where I learned to swim. I remember the deer in the meadow in the winter, and the eagle overhead. 30 years later, after my husband died, I returned to the River to re-find my spirit, to heal. I most sincerely doubt that the Metolius area could continue to be pristine and refreshing if it were extensively developed…actually, if it were developed much more than it currently is.
I’ve lived in Colorado the last 28 years. I’ve watched a state essentially prostitute itself to development – if you doubt that, visit Breckenridge, Aspen, or Vail. Crested Butte will be the next significant loss…visit this year if you want to see what will disappear under the tread of many tourists and resorts. The losses are immense for those of us who have seen the wildflowers, the quiet roads, the clear water, smelled the peppery swamp grasses. Large-scale development is simply incompatible with such sites and violates them.
I trust Oregon is wiser, and sees value in protecting special locations such as the Metolius, for future generations. Please support SB 30 and do not allow it to be diluted by pro-development supporters.
There IS a value to humankind in preserving the few quiet, special, pristine places remaining. There is honor and respect for those who have the authority to enable that protection, such as yourself.
Celia S. Walker
Fort Collins, CO
I am writing this letter to you with a degree of urgency I don’t often feel. I’m asking that you support Senate Bill 30 to protect the Metolius River Basin from development.
I grew up on the Metolius – I attended the little Black Butte School (which prepared me for my future Fulbright Fellowship), I hiked the trails, walked the roads and fields, knew all the bends in the river trail between the salmon hatchery my Dad managed and the country Store downriver. I learned to predict the weather by watching Green Ridge and Black Butte. The ponds and creeks were where I learned to swim. I remember the deer in the meadow in the winter, and the eagle overhead. 30 years later, after my husband died, I returned to the River to re-find my spirit, to heal. I most sincerely doubt that the Metolius area could continue to be pristine and refreshing if it were extensively developed…actually, if it were developed much more than it currently is.
I’ve lived in Colorado the last 28 years. I’ve watched a state essentially prostitute itself to development – if you doubt that, visit Breckenridge, Aspen, or Vail. Crested Butte will be the next significant loss…visit this year if you want to see what will disappear under the tread of many tourists and resorts. The losses are immense for those of us who have seen the wildflowers, the quiet roads, the clear water, smelled the peppery swamp grasses. Large-scale development is simply incompatible with such sites and violates them.
I trust Oregon is wiser, and sees value in protecting special locations such as the Metolius, for future generations. Please support SB 30 and do not allow it to be diluted by pro-development supporters.
There IS a value to humankind in preserving the few quiet, special, pristine places remaining. There is honor and respect for those who have the authority to enable that protection, such as yourself.
Celia S. Walker
Fort Collins, CO
Friday, May 25, 2007
This Bill Is So Important! - Pat Krause, Portland
Dear House Speaker Merkley,
Thank you so very much for co-sponsoring Senate Bill 30. This bill is so important! The Metolius River Basin is one of the most natural and scenic places in the world. It must be protected for this generation and the generations to come. Having destination resorts in or near the Metolius River Basin will destroy the very things we all love and treasure about the Metolius - the delicate, fragile ecosystem, the fresh and clean air, the crystal clear water, the natural habitat for fish and wildlife, to name a few. Please do everything you can to see that this bill (as it was passed by the Senate) is passed before the legislative session ends.
Again, thank you!
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, Oregon
Thank you so very much for co-sponsoring Senate Bill 30. This bill is so important! The Metolius River Basin is one of the most natural and scenic places in the world. It must be protected for this generation and the generations to come. Having destination resorts in or near the Metolius River Basin will destroy the very things we all love and treasure about the Metolius - the delicate, fragile ecosystem, the fresh and clean air, the crystal clear water, the natural habitat for fish and wildlife, to name a few. Please do everything you can to see that this bill (as it was passed by the Senate) is passed before the legislative session ends.
Again, thank you!
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, Oregon
Asking For Energetic Support - Thomas Anderson, McMinnville
Honorable Members of the House Elections, Ethics, and Rules Committee:
[Also Sent to House Democratic Leadership]
I am writing to ask that you give energetic support to a Metolius Basin protection bill. I love to go to the Metolius River for the day or to camp because I enjoy its quiet beauty. The Metolius River Basin is one of the most unique natural and scenic wonders in Oregon, in the country, and in the world. We have in the middle of our state a treasure to be cherished and preserved for generations to come. Current and future generations of Oregonians are in danger of losing the quiet, uncrowded character of this precious treasure if we allow destination resorts to be developed in the Metolius Basin.
If protective legislation, such as SB 30, is not enacted, the special character of the Metolius Basin will be degraded forever by traffic, crowds, and commercialization. And there will be specific economic costs generated by the construction of destination resorts that will end up being paid and assumed by parties other than the developers. Here is one example: The Jefferson County Planning department uses the Institute of Transportation Trip Generation Manual to assign 9.6 trips per day to each house. If 3500 houses are built in a destination resort (as in one currently proposed), that will generate 33,600 vehicle trips per day on the Camp Sherman road. What will that cost in road maintenance and expansion, traffic, pollution, and carbon emissions? Are we not at a critical time when our public officials are directed to enact legislation reducing carbon emissions to address threatening global warming trends (rather than approving plans which will dramatically increase emissions)?
Before voting to allow development of destination resorts in the Metolius Basin, I think you need to assess the actual short and long term costs to your constituents, the citizens of Oregon, and their descendants. Informed decision making, by legislators and by voters, requires such cost analysis.
I hope to see that you have voted in favor or SB 30.
Sincerely,
Thomas H. Anderson
Law Offices of Thomas H. Anderson, P.C.
McMinnville, Oregon
[Also Sent to House Democratic Leadership]
I am writing to ask that you give energetic support to a Metolius Basin protection bill. I love to go to the Metolius River for the day or to camp because I enjoy its quiet beauty. The Metolius River Basin is one of the most unique natural and scenic wonders in Oregon, in the country, and in the world. We have in the middle of our state a treasure to be cherished and preserved for generations to come. Current and future generations of Oregonians are in danger of losing the quiet, uncrowded character of this precious treasure if we allow destination resorts to be developed in the Metolius Basin.
If protective legislation, such as SB 30, is not enacted, the special character of the Metolius Basin will be degraded forever by traffic, crowds, and commercialization. And there will be specific economic costs generated by the construction of destination resorts that will end up being paid and assumed by parties other than the developers. Here is one example: The Jefferson County Planning department uses the Institute of Transportation Trip Generation Manual to assign 9.6 trips per day to each house. If 3500 houses are built in a destination resort (as in one currently proposed), that will generate 33,600 vehicle trips per day on the Camp Sherman road. What will that cost in road maintenance and expansion, traffic, pollution, and carbon emissions? Are we not at a critical time when our public officials are directed to enact legislation reducing carbon emissions to address threatening global warming trends (rather than approving plans which will dramatically increase emissions)?
Before voting to allow development of destination resorts in the Metolius Basin, I think you need to assess the actual short and long term costs to your constituents, the citizens of Oregon, and their descendants. Informed decision making, by legislators and by voters, requires such cost analysis.
I hope to see that you have voted in favor or SB 30.
Sincerely,
Thomas H. Anderson
Law Offices of Thomas H. Anderson, P.C.
McMinnville, Oregon
An Essential Bill - Joe Kuehn, Salem
Dear Representative Merkley,
Please schedule SB 30 as early as possible in your committee, It is essential that this bill get to the floor for a vote before the legislative session ends.
SB 30, in the thinking of hundreds of Oregonians, is one of the top five environmental bills to come before the legislature in the last decade.
There has been tremendous public concern expressed in keeping magnet mega resorts away from pristine land such as the Metolius Basin. Only a few of many reasons stated are:
excessive population pressure placed upon a delicate and fragile ecosystem
severe threat to depletion of ground water resources and the spring fed Metolius River.
greatly increased traffic congestion and dangerous atmospheric increase in CO2 emissions
Your utmost attention is requested to get this extremely important bill passed into law as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Joe Kuehn
Salem, OR
Please schedule SB 30 as early as possible in your committee, It is essential that this bill get to the floor for a vote before the legislative session ends.
SB 30, in the thinking of hundreds of Oregonians, is one of the top five environmental bills to come before the legislature in the last decade.
There has been tremendous public concern expressed in keeping magnet mega resorts away from pristine land such as the Metolius Basin. Only a few of many reasons stated are:
excessive population pressure placed upon a delicate and fragile ecosystem
severe threat to depletion of ground water resources and the spring fed Metolius River.
greatly increased traffic congestion and dangerous atmospheric increase in CO2 emissions
Your utmost attention is requested to get this extremely important bill passed into law as soon as possible.
Sincerely,
Joe Kuehn
Salem, OR
This is NOT A NIMBY Issue - Herbert Anderson, Dayton
[Sent To All State Representatives:]
In connection with SB 30-Metolius I read that someone had said that it appeared that this was a case of homeowners in the area saying that, now that I have mine, everyone else should be kept out. As a member of the public who does not own a house there, but who has used the Metolius area for more than fifty years, that struck me as ignoring the interests of we non-owners of property in the Metolius basin who use the area far more,
With at least four U.S. Forest Camps and many public accommodations in the area, those who do not own property there but use the area frequently, must outnumber the property owners by more than ten to one. There are only a few houses in that area, but the Forest Camps and public accomocations are full all summer long. With our six children we stayed in Forest Camps or rented public accommodations every year over many years, and on other occasions came to the area for the day for fishing and relaxing.
When I almost died from pneumonia in 1962 the doctor told me, upon my release from the hospital, that I needed some time for recuperation and that in his experience those who stayed at home often languished for weeks. But that those who went away recovered far sooner. My wife and I went to the House on the Metolius where the first day I walked down and looked at the river but then immediately returned to our cabin and went to bed for the rest of the day. The next day I rigged up a fishing rod and fished about an hour before retiring to bed. Each day I was a little stronger and at the end of a week I waded in the stream all day. The doctor was right. The peace and serenity of the area brought quick healing to a depleted body.
I am not alone in recognizing the restful attributes of the area. Erskine Wood told me many years ago that just before the Normandy invasion of Europe in World War II Gen. George Marshall, Army Chief of Staff, called him and said that he expected in a short time to be extremely busy and wanted a few days rest. He asked to spend that time at Erskine’s camp on the Metolius because he could think of no more restful spot.
When we have great treasures we preserve them by National Park status, Wilderness designations or National Monuments. We don’t build a freeway through the most beautiful part of such locations in the belief that it will make the area available to more people. It would actually destroy what we most admire. A crystal clear river bursting forth from the hillside is unique and the beauty of the Metolius area is not found in any other place. To permit a large housing development in the area would necessarily detract from what the public now enjoys in the area. I hope you will support legislation to prohibit such construction.
Herbert H. Anderson
Dayton, OR
In connection with SB 30-Metolius I read that someone had said that it appeared that this was a case of homeowners in the area saying that, now that I have mine, everyone else should be kept out. As a member of the public who does not own a house there, but who has used the Metolius area for more than fifty years, that struck me as ignoring the interests of we non-owners of property in the Metolius basin who use the area far more,
With at least four U.S. Forest Camps and many public accommodations in the area, those who do not own property there but use the area frequently, must outnumber the property owners by more than ten to one. There are only a few houses in that area, but the Forest Camps and public accomocations are full all summer long. With our six children we stayed in Forest Camps or rented public accommodations every year over many years, and on other occasions came to the area for the day for fishing and relaxing.
When I almost died from pneumonia in 1962 the doctor told me, upon my release from the hospital, that I needed some time for recuperation and that in his experience those who stayed at home often languished for weeks. But that those who went away recovered far sooner. My wife and I went to the House on the Metolius where the first day I walked down and looked at the river but then immediately returned to our cabin and went to bed for the rest of the day. The next day I rigged up a fishing rod and fished about an hour before retiring to bed. Each day I was a little stronger and at the end of a week I waded in the stream all day. The doctor was right. The peace and serenity of the area brought quick healing to a depleted body.
I am not alone in recognizing the restful attributes of the area. Erskine Wood told me many years ago that just before the Normandy invasion of Europe in World War II Gen. George Marshall, Army Chief of Staff, called him and said that he expected in a short time to be extremely busy and wanted a few days rest. He asked to spend that time at Erskine’s camp on the Metolius because he could think of no more restful spot.
When we have great treasures we preserve them by National Park status, Wilderness designations or National Monuments. We don’t build a freeway through the most beautiful part of such locations in the belief that it will make the area available to more people. It would actually destroy what we most admire. A crystal clear river bursting forth from the hillside is unique and the beauty of the Metolius area is not found in any other place. To permit a large housing development in the area would necessarily detract from what the public now enjoys in the area. I hope you will support legislation to prohibit such construction.
Herbert H. Anderson
Dayton, OR
Sisters City Council Passes Resolution Supporting SB 30! - LandWatch
Here is the text of a resolution passed last night by the Sisters City Council demonstrating broad support for SB 30.
Voting in support were Mayor Brad Boyd, Councilor William Merrill, Councilor Sharlene Weed, and Councilor Shawna Bell. Lon Kellstrom was the lone dissenter.
City of Sisters
Resolution No. 2007-07
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF SB 30
WHEREAS, SB 30 was introduced during the 2007 Oregon Legislature by Senator Westlund; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this legislation is to protect the Metolius River watershed, scenic and environmentally sensitive areas by prohibiting the siting of destination resorts in or within three miles of the Metolius River Basin; and
WHEREAS, destination resorts proposed for this basin under the Jefferson County Destination Resort Map will have a significant impact on Sisters, primarily due to increased traffic congestion and local services such as public safety and schools; and
WHEREAS, additionally these resorts pose numerous risks to the region’s natural resources and overall character of the Metolius Basin which is integral to the identity and livelihood of the Greater Sisters Country; and
WHEREAS, the City’s economic future is enhanced not by the creation of new destination resorts, but by the preservation of the natural and scenic qualities of the Metolius Basin for which it is world reknown; and
WHEREAS, the Metolius River is a precious asset to the State of Oregon, and qualities and values deserving protection within the Metolius Basin should be a matter of statewide concern,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of Sisters that the City of Sisters supports SB 30 in its original intent and encourages the Oregon Legislature to adopt this legislation.
Adopted by the Common Council of the City of Sisters this 24th day of May, 2007, by the following vote:
Mayor Brad Boyd _________ Councilor William Merrill ________
Councilor Shawna Bell _________ Councilor Lon Kellstrom ________
Councilor Sharlene Weed _________
Approved by the Mayor this 24th day of May, 2007.
________________________________
Brad Boyd, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________________
Kathy Nelson, City Recorder
Voting in support were Mayor Brad Boyd, Councilor William Merrill, Councilor Sharlene Weed, and Councilor Shawna Bell. Lon Kellstrom was the lone dissenter.
City of Sisters
Resolution No. 2007-07
A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF SB 30
WHEREAS, SB 30 was introduced during the 2007 Oregon Legislature by Senator Westlund; and
WHEREAS, the purpose of this legislation is to protect the Metolius River watershed, scenic and environmentally sensitive areas by prohibiting the siting of destination resorts in or within three miles of the Metolius River Basin; and
WHEREAS, destination resorts proposed for this basin under the Jefferson County Destination Resort Map will have a significant impact on Sisters, primarily due to increased traffic congestion and local services such as public safety and schools; and
WHEREAS, additionally these resorts pose numerous risks to the region’s natural resources and overall character of the Metolius Basin which is integral to the identity and livelihood of the Greater Sisters Country; and
WHEREAS, the City’s economic future is enhanced not by the creation of new destination resorts, but by the preservation of the natural and scenic qualities of the Metolius Basin for which it is world reknown; and
WHEREAS, the Metolius River is a precious asset to the State of Oregon, and qualities and values deserving protection within the Metolius Basin should be a matter of statewide concern,
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED by the Common Council of the City of Sisters that the City of Sisters supports SB 30 in its original intent and encourages the Oregon Legislature to adopt this legislation.
Adopted by the Common Council of the City of Sisters this 24th day of May, 2007, by the following vote:
Mayor Brad Boyd _________ Councilor William Merrill ________
Councilor Shawna Bell _________ Councilor Lon Kellstrom ________
Councilor Sharlene Weed _________
Approved by the Mayor this 24th day of May, 2007.
________________________________
Brad Boyd, Mayor
ATTEST:
______________________________________
Kathy Nelson, City Recorder
If You Love Oregon As Much As I Do... - Stan Shively, Philomath
Rep. Boquist --
I am a constituent, having lived in Wren for 40 years. This note concerns Senate Bill 30 and the Metolius River.
I am an avid fly-fisherman. I started fishing the Metolius River in 1970 and camp and fish there with my family 4-6 times a year. The Metolius area is gorgeous and we love it. It is one of the reasons why I love Oregon so much and have remained in the state all these years.
The Metolius basin is pristine. I am appalled by the plan to establish two massive destination resorts in the basin. Without a doubt construction of this magnitude would destroy the area.
I am asking you to help pass SB 30. If you love Oregon as much as I do, I know that you will want to protect the Metolius basin.
Thank you,
Stan Shively
Philomath, Or
I am a constituent, having lived in Wren for 40 years. This note concerns Senate Bill 30 and the Metolius River.
I am an avid fly-fisherman. I started fishing the Metolius River in 1970 and camp and fish there with my family 4-6 times a year. The Metolius area is gorgeous and we love it. It is one of the reasons why I love Oregon so much and have remained in the state all these years.
The Metolius basin is pristine. I am appalled by the plan to establish two massive destination resorts in the basin. Without a doubt construction of this magnitude would destroy the area.
I am asking you to help pass SB 30. If you love Oregon as much as I do, I know that you will want to protect the Metolius basin.
Thank you,
Stan Shively
Philomath, Or
Think Of The Future - Michel Bayard, Bend
[Sent to all State Representatives:]
I am a long time resident of Central Oregon, among many, who has seen one environmental treasure after another destroyed or severely damaged by uncontrolled development, as a result of greed and a lack of concern for our desire to preserve our wonderful environment. We live here because we love this environment and the passage of bill SB30 in The House (in its original version preventing any destination resort three miles from the Metolius river) would help protect one of our last environmental treasure, the Metolius area. The Metolius River needs to be preserved for our kids. We should not be selfish and only think of NOW. All our kids have is the FUTURE.
Please help us pass this bill.
Thank you.
Michel Bayard
Bend, OR
I am a long time resident of Central Oregon, among many, who has seen one environmental treasure after another destroyed or severely damaged by uncontrolled development, as a result of greed and a lack of concern for our desire to preserve our wonderful environment. We live here because we love this environment and the passage of bill SB30 in The House (in its original version preventing any destination resort three miles from the Metolius river) would help protect one of our last environmental treasure, the Metolius area. The Metolius River needs to be preserved for our kids. We should not be selfish and only think of NOW. All our kids have is the FUTURE.
Please help us pass this bill.
Thank you.
Michel Bayard
Bend, OR
Development Would Have A Devastating Impact - Jim and Lenora Lawrence, Tillamook
[Sent to the members of the Senate Rules Committee:]
Jim and I have been fortunate to be occasional guests at our friend's
cabin at Camp Sherman and so have been interested in SB 30 so we were
very pleased to see the Senate wisely passed this bill.
A destination resort in that fragile area would be a travesty. The
inevitable demands on the water supply for the development would have a
devastating effect on the rivers downstream and to the fish habitat.
I hope you will strongly support Senate Bill 30 and not permit it to be
weakened at all by pressure from special interest groups..
Sincerely,
Jim and Lenora Lawrence
Tillamook, OR
Jim and I have been fortunate to be occasional guests at our friend's
cabin at Camp Sherman and so have been interested in SB 30 so we were
very pleased to see the Senate wisely passed this bill.
A destination resort in that fragile area would be a travesty. The
inevitable demands on the water supply for the development would have a
devastating effect on the rivers downstream and to the fish habitat.
I hope you will strongly support Senate Bill 30 and not permit it to be
weakened at all by pressure from special interest groups..
Sincerely,
Jim and Lenora Lawrence
Tillamook, OR
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Not Just Another "Pretty Oregon River" - Al Krause, Sisters
Members of the House: (Sent to all State Reps.)
Respectfully I write to ask for your support of SB30 as was passed by the senate to protect the Metolius River from the potential harm of massive development within the watershed. I realize that many of you might see this as an issue of infringement of state government over the local process of land use management. If that is, indeed, what is happening, in this case it is justified. Jefferson County was willing to sacrifice it's "crown jewel", the Metolius basin, over objections of those who spoke at their public hearings to provide revenues for operating expenses of the County. Can you imagine a destination resort, twice the size of Black Butte Ranch and what would be the largest destination resort in Oregon near a small, beautiful river, already protected as "wild and scenic" by the Federal government. I can assure you that if you have or had ever spent any time on the river you would know what is the right decision, and you would know how to vote on this issue. This is not a political issue to be voted upon along party lines, rather,it is about preserving a river, that if harmed by these destination resorts, will never be replaced or recreated to it's current pristine nature. The Metolius river is not just another "pretty Oregon river". Oregon beaches were not just another beach, the Columbia Gorge not just another gorge, Crater Lake not just another mountain. You each have an opportunity to save this Oregon treasure for all who visit now and for future generations as well. Please leave a legacy of decision -making that you and those you represent would be proud of.
Al Krause
Sisters, OR
Respectfully I write to ask for your support of SB30 as was passed by the senate to protect the Metolius River from the potential harm of massive development within the watershed. I realize that many of you might see this as an issue of infringement of state government over the local process of land use management. If that is, indeed, what is happening, in this case it is justified. Jefferson County was willing to sacrifice it's "crown jewel", the Metolius basin, over objections of those who spoke at their public hearings to provide revenues for operating expenses of the County. Can you imagine a destination resort, twice the size of Black Butte Ranch and what would be the largest destination resort in Oregon near a small, beautiful river, already protected as "wild and scenic" by the Federal government. I can assure you that if you have or had ever spent any time on the river you would know what is the right decision, and you would know how to vote on this issue. This is not a political issue to be voted upon along party lines, rather,it is about preserving a river, that if harmed by these destination resorts, will never be replaced or recreated to it's current pristine nature. The Metolius river is not just another "pretty Oregon river". Oregon beaches were not just another beach, the Columbia Gorge not just another gorge, Crater Lake not just another mountain. You each have an opportunity to save this Oregon treasure for all who visit now and for future generations as well. Please leave a legacy of decision -making that you and those you represent would be proud of.
Al Krause
Sisters, OR
Not Just Another RIver - Michael Funke, Bend
[Sent to the members of the House Rules Committee and Rep. Chuck Burley:]
I urge you to vote for SB 30 and protect the Metolius River.
I have fished many, many rivers and lakes throughout the western U.S. and in Michigan and Canada.
The Metolius is not just another river. It is a special river flowing through spectacular beauty. Yes, there are cabins along the river, and campgrounds. It is not wilderness. But all development along the river to date essentially merges with the landscape.
A destination resort--two destination resorts--will have an immediate combined impact that far outweighs all the past development in Camp Sherman and along the river.
There are many Oregon rivers that deserve special treatment, that demand protection so that we can all enjoy them. The Metolius is one of those rivers.
Destination resorts already dot the landscape of Central Oregon. They have permanently altered the beauty of Powell Butte. We can't afford to keep building these resorts where only the wealthy can afford to recreate and the lowest paid workers in the state are employed.
We can do better. And we can start by protecting the Metolius. I urge you to vote for SB 30.
Michael Funke
Member, Trout Unlimited
Bend
I urge you to vote for SB 30 and protect the Metolius River.
I have fished many, many rivers and lakes throughout the western U.S. and in Michigan and Canada.
The Metolius is not just another river. It is a special river flowing through spectacular beauty. Yes, there are cabins along the river, and campgrounds. It is not wilderness. But all development along the river to date essentially merges with the landscape.
A destination resort--two destination resorts--will have an immediate combined impact that far outweighs all the past development in Camp Sherman and along the river.
There are many Oregon rivers that deserve special treatment, that demand protection so that we can all enjoy them. The Metolius is one of those rivers.
Destination resorts already dot the landscape of Central Oregon. They have permanently altered the beauty of Powell Butte. We can't afford to keep building these resorts where only the wealthy can afford to recreate and the lowest paid workers in the state are employed.
We can do better. And we can start by protecting the Metolius. I urge you to vote for SB 30.
Michael Funke
Member, Trout Unlimited
Bend
Chock-O-Block With Resorts - D.W. McBride, MD and Family (Bend, OR and Gambier, OH)
[Sen to the House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources and Reps. Boone, Merkley and Rosenbaum:]
It is devoutly to be wished that you will support SB 30 to preserve the Metolius Basin. We believe there are enough destination resorts in Oregon and we don' need another in theMetolius Basin is one of them. This bill should be passed without compromise.
The Metolius River has been enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year because of it's quiet beauty, clear water and magnificent forests. It has remained this way because it is mostly federal land well managed by the US Forest Service. The private inholdings are mostly occupied by small cabins and houses on large lots and the locals, about 250 residents, are good stewards of the land. Their presence does not degrade the area. Large destination resorts with hundreds of homes and rental units would destroy the charm of the village and absolutely affect the ambiance of the Wild and Scenic river. The developers' and Jefferson county's desire for money should not be allowed to carry the day on this issue. Central Oregon is chock-a-block with destination resorts which in actuality are towns outside the urban growth boundaries of Bend, Redmond, Sisters, etc.
The proposed resort on the east boundary of the Metolius Basin would be many times larger than Sisters only 10 miles away. The impact on water, roads, traffic, schools, wildlife habitat would be huge! The smaller proposed resort is right smack in the middle of Forest Service land. The Deschutes Forest Plan recognizes the special values of the basin and Sisters Ranger District does an excellent job implementing the plan. This private 627 acre parcel should be part of the National Forest and certainly not some sort of major development dressed in ecological clothes.
Your support is strongly urged. If paved and developed, Oregon will have lost a natural treasure which connot be reclaimed.
D.W. McBride, MD and Family
Bend, OR
Gambier, OH
It is devoutly to be wished that you will support SB 30 to preserve the Metolius Basin. We believe there are enough destination resorts in Oregon and we don' need another in theMetolius Basin is one of them. This bill should be passed without compromise.
The Metolius River has been enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year because of it's quiet beauty, clear water and magnificent forests. It has remained this way because it is mostly federal land well managed by the US Forest Service. The private inholdings are mostly occupied by small cabins and houses on large lots and the locals, about 250 residents, are good stewards of the land. Their presence does not degrade the area. Large destination resorts with hundreds of homes and rental units would destroy the charm of the village and absolutely affect the ambiance of the Wild and Scenic river. The developers' and Jefferson county's desire for money should not be allowed to carry the day on this issue. Central Oregon is chock-a-block with destination resorts which in actuality are towns outside the urban growth boundaries of Bend, Redmond, Sisters, etc.
The proposed resort on the east boundary of the Metolius Basin would be many times larger than Sisters only 10 miles away. The impact on water, roads, traffic, schools, wildlife habitat would be huge! The smaller proposed resort is right smack in the middle of Forest Service land. The Deschutes Forest Plan recognizes the special values of the basin and Sisters Ranger District does an excellent job implementing the plan. This private 627 acre parcel should be part of the National Forest and certainly not some sort of major development dressed in ecological clothes.
Your support is strongly urged. If paved and developed, Oregon will have lost a natural treasure which connot be reclaimed.
D.W. McBride, MD and Family
Bend, OR
Gambier, OH
Keep This Little Chunk Of Heaven - Tracy Campbell, Bend
[Sent to the House Committee and Agriculture and Natural Resources and Reps. Boone, Merkley, and Rosenbaum:]
I am writing to support SB 30 that will preserve the Metolius Basin.
I was born and raised in Oregon and have lived in Bend for the past 30 years.
I fully appreciate the challenge in balancing growth and the beauty of the natural resources Oregon has to offer; and can I just request that we keep this “little chunk of heaven” as it is. We have PLENTY of resorts in the Central Oregon Area
Tracy Campbell
Bend, OR
I am writing to support SB 30 that will preserve the Metolius Basin.
I was born and raised in Oregon and have lived in Bend for the past 30 years.
I fully appreciate the challenge in balancing growth and the beauty of the natural resources Oregon has to offer; and can I just request that we keep this “little chunk of heaven” as it is. We have PLENTY of resorts in the Central Oregon Area
Tracy Campbell
Bend, OR
Do Not Degrade the Metolius - Cheryl Schadt, Redmond
[Sent to Rep. Whisnant and Sen Westlund:]
I am a native-born Oregonian, who for most of my adult life, lived out of this glorious state. Upon retiring 8 years ago, my husband & I returned to Oregon. We live in a destination resort at Eagle Crest. Although I am not happy with the large number of destination resorts that have been approved and built since we moved here, including the latest phase to Eagle Crest that has transpired since land was traded with BLM, I understand that we can't "close the door" behind us. I worry a lot about the water situation, the effect on our services that the destination resorts do not completely pay for--I believe that all development should pay for the impacts that they cause.
My biggest concern, though, is the latest proposal to build destination resorts at Camp Sherman. I hike there often--in fact, I hiked along the Metolius today. Even though there is a minimal amount of development there, it is such a peaceful and awe-inspiring area. The Metolius is crystal clear, and running fast with spring thaw. We saw fish, ducks, geese, and Western Tanagers. There were a few fly-fisherman casting for fish. The cedars and pines are huge, and the wildflowers are blooming. It is a beautiful area that should be protected. I believe legislation should be enacted that would protect this area for our children and grandchildren as other areas such as the Oregon beaches and Crater Lake have been. The area is used extensively by fly-fisherman, rafters, hikers, bird watchers and others, from the local area, as well as all over the world, and has been recognized as precious by the Federal Goverment when they enacted and created the Wild and Scenic River designation for the river.
At the very least, do not spoil this by allowing developers & Jefferson County to degrade this area. The impact would be huge, and irrepairable. Please support legislation as passed by the Senate Bill 30 and encourage development to be placed where it would be less harmful.
Thanks so much for your help in this matter. As a Representative for this area, surely you understand and appreciate our feelings on this matter.
Sincerely, Cheryl Schadt
Redmond OR
I am a native-born Oregonian, who for most of my adult life, lived out of this glorious state. Upon retiring 8 years ago, my husband & I returned to Oregon. We live in a destination resort at Eagle Crest. Although I am not happy with the large number of destination resorts that have been approved and built since we moved here, including the latest phase to Eagle Crest that has transpired since land was traded with BLM, I understand that we can't "close the door" behind us. I worry a lot about the water situation, the effect on our services that the destination resorts do not completely pay for--I believe that all development should pay for the impacts that they cause.
My biggest concern, though, is the latest proposal to build destination resorts at Camp Sherman. I hike there often--in fact, I hiked along the Metolius today. Even though there is a minimal amount of development there, it is such a peaceful and awe-inspiring area. The Metolius is crystal clear, and running fast with spring thaw. We saw fish, ducks, geese, and Western Tanagers. There were a few fly-fisherman casting for fish. The cedars and pines are huge, and the wildflowers are blooming. It is a beautiful area that should be protected. I believe legislation should be enacted that would protect this area for our children and grandchildren as other areas such as the Oregon beaches and Crater Lake have been. The area is used extensively by fly-fisherman, rafters, hikers, bird watchers and others, from the local area, as well as all over the world, and has been recognized as precious by the Federal Goverment when they enacted and created the Wild and Scenic River designation for the river.
At the very least, do not spoil this by allowing developers & Jefferson County to degrade this area. The impact would be huge, and irrepairable. Please support legislation as passed by the Senate Bill 30 and encourage development to be placed where it would be less harmful.
Thanks so much for your help in this matter. As a Representative for this area, surely you understand and appreciate our feelings on this matter.
Sincerely, Cheryl Schadt
Redmond OR
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
SB 30 ~ Transformed vision to Save the Metolius - Anne Bigelow, Seattle, WA
Dear Representative
Thank you for supporting SB 30 to save the Metolius by preventing destination resorts in the Metolius Basin. Large-scale developments would surely harm the delicately balanced ecology, irreversibly draining the Basin of the very values the resorts would exploit. Save this lovely, irreplaceable river for us all to enjoy.
Sincerely,
Anne M. Stevens
Seattle, WA
Thank you for supporting SB 30 to save the Metolius by preventing destination resorts in the Metolius Basin. Large-scale developments would surely harm the delicately balanced ecology, irreversibly draining the Basin of the very values the resorts would exploit. Save this lovely, irreplaceable river for us all to enjoy.
Sincerely,
Anne M. Stevens
Seattle, WA
Some Place Called The Metolius - Morton and Sally Hurt, Sisters
Dear Representative Whisnant
[Copied to all Representatives]
In April 2006 we moved to Camp Sherman from Seattle after retiring from our respective careers. Friends and colleagues in Washington often asked why we were moving to Oregon not to mention some place called Camp Sherman and the Metolius River Basin. After all, Oregon has a State Income Tax and that will obviously have an adverse economic impact on someone recently retired. Our response to such claims was that our decision to move to Oregon would not be driven by whether there was a State Income Tax, rather our decision would be driven by the quality of life we would enjoy in our retirement years.
Although we have subsequently moved to Sisters we still refer endearingly to Camp Sherman and the Metolius River as that "small slice of Heaven". We have been following the progress of SB 30 with great interest. The Oregon legislature has a long historical legacy, exemplified by much of the legislation enacted during the terms of such notable Governors as Oswald West and Tom McCall, of enacting progressive legislation when it is merited and is in the best interest of the public. We feel this pending vote can again be one of those historical moments. So we would urge you and all members of the Oregon House of Representatives to put aside any partisan differences and vote in favor of SB 30 in the interest of all Oregon citizens and all those who visit this beautiful State.
Morton & Sally Hurt
Sisters, OR
[Copied to all Representatives]
In April 2006 we moved to Camp Sherman from Seattle after retiring from our respective careers. Friends and colleagues in Washington often asked why we were moving to Oregon not to mention some place called Camp Sherman and the Metolius River Basin. After all, Oregon has a State Income Tax and that will obviously have an adverse economic impact on someone recently retired. Our response to such claims was that our decision to move to Oregon would not be driven by whether there was a State Income Tax, rather our decision would be driven by the quality of life we would enjoy in our retirement years.
Although we have subsequently moved to Sisters we still refer endearingly to Camp Sherman and the Metolius River as that "small slice of Heaven". We have been following the progress of SB 30 with great interest. The Oregon legislature has a long historical legacy, exemplified by much of the legislation enacted during the terms of such notable Governors as Oswald West and Tom McCall, of enacting progressive legislation when it is merited and is in the best interest of the public. We feel this pending vote can again be one of those historical moments. So we would urge you and all members of the Oregon House of Representatives to put aside any partisan differences and vote in favor of SB 30 in the interest of all Oregon citizens and all those who visit this beautiful State.
Morton & Sally Hurt
Sisters, OR
Support SB 30 In The House - Marie Sheahan Brown (Camp Sherman) and Leslie Ann Brown McMillan (Brooklyn, NY)
[Sent to the House Committee on Agriculture and Natural Resources and Reps. Boone, Merkley, and Rosenbaum:]
Please support SB 30 to Save the Metolius by preventing destination resorts in the Metolius Basin. Large-scale developments would surely harm the delicately balanced ecology, irreversibly draining the Basin of the very values the resorts would exploit.
Your constituents have different visions for the Metolius Basin. Those who see a private economic resource to be rightfully developed, strain to deny the adverse consequences to the ecosystem. Others, with nothing to gain economically, see an enormous threat to a natural treasure held in common by all citizens. Which vision will prevail?
Opposing visions are an old story in the Metolius Basin. Some years ago, Becky Johnson ~ stateswoman of Oregon, beloved elder of the Metolius Basin ~ told us a story. Becky passed on early this year, at 93. We’ll try to do justice to her story of transformed vision.
Her father-in-law, S. O. Johnson’s, first view of the Metolius River headwaters took his breath away. In his mind’s eye, he saw a mill pond, a saw mill, and a cash crop of giant ponderosa timber all around. Mr. Johnson was seeing through lenses of the era. He bought 160 acres around the Metolius River headwaters for $16,000 in 1924.
Before that, in the late 1800s, T. Egenton Hogg had a green glint in his eye ~ the glint of cash. He envisioned railroad tracks and trains running from the Oregon coast into Central Oregon over the Santiam Pass. With transcontinental vision, he could see trainload after trainload hauling giant Oregon lumber to the East. Mr. Hogg’s railroad scheme crumbled, tainted with suspected misuse of investors’ funds. Perhaps, too, potential investors were rightly skeptical to sink money into a railroad built on the crumbly volcanic rock of Santiam Pass. Even today, great chunks of highway are prone to tumble down the hillside. The possibility of a railroad died out only after 1930, when the Portland and Southeastern Railroad filed for a right of way across “Hogg Pass,” which evidently was never granted.
Meanwhile, S. O. Johnson was experiencing transformed vision. Instead of an industry with raw materials all around, he began to see a sacred mystery of exquisite and delicate beauty, to be protected yet shared. He transmitted this vision to his son, Sam, to whom he sold the property for $1 in 1934. S. O. Johnson chose to serve as statesman for the common good instead of henchman to the Almighty Dollar.
Sam and Becky Johnson, and now their daughters, kept the tradition of statesmanship, generosity, and preservation of a Creation not their own. As just one example, thousands of people each year can view majestic Mt. Jefferson from the Headwaters of the Metolius, without much harm, thanks to the scenic easement the Johnsons donated to the Forest Service in 1971.
You can't have a full-blown river coming out of the base of Black Butte, and smaller springs downstream, unless you have a large, uninterrupted groundwater supply. Tourists along the banks up and down stream are one thing, but source disruptions are quite another.
In recent years, Becky worried because she saw the springs at the headwaters diminishing. We are distressed to see similar dwindling of the spring we know best, a few miles downstream. IT JUST CAN’T BE RIGHT to allow destination resorts in the Metolius Basin, with thousands of homes and possibly golf courses sucking up unprecedented and inconceivable quantities of this diminishing groundwater.
We don’t need to spell out the lesson in this story for Oregon Representatives who choose to serve as stateswomen and statesmen protecting the common good.
As inheritors of scarce private acres in the Metolius Basin, we know some might see us as selfishly wishing to preserve for ourselves a unique treasure. On the contrary, fly-fishers, rafters, hikers, bird watchers and other unknown visitors often pass through our undeveloped fence-free forest; we simply trust them to respect it. Like most Metolius property owners, for generations our family has saved the Metolius for countless others by remaining alert to forces that would diminish it for all.
That we happen to own land does not cancel out the harm threatened by giant destination resorts that would alter the Metolius beyond recognition. We urge you to support SB 30, with a vision to Save the Metolius and its irreplaceable values for all of the people.
Sincerely,
Marie Sheahan Brown
Camp Sherman, OR
Leslie Ann Brown McMillan
Brooklyn, NY
Please support SB 30 to Save the Metolius by preventing destination resorts in the Metolius Basin. Large-scale developments would surely harm the delicately balanced ecology, irreversibly draining the Basin of the very values the resorts would exploit.
Your constituents have different visions for the Metolius Basin. Those who see a private economic resource to be rightfully developed, strain to deny the adverse consequences to the ecosystem. Others, with nothing to gain economically, see an enormous threat to a natural treasure held in common by all citizens. Which vision will prevail?
Opposing visions are an old story in the Metolius Basin. Some years ago, Becky Johnson ~ stateswoman of Oregon, beloved elder of the Metolius Basin ~ told us a story. Becky passed on early this year, at 93. We’ll try to do justice to her story of transformed vision.
Her father-in-law, S. O. Johnson’s, first view of the Metolius River headwaters took his breath away. In his mind’s eye, he saw a mill pond, a saw mill, and a cash crop of giant ponderosa timber all around. Mr. Johnson was seeing through lenses of the era. He bought 160 acres around the Metolius River headwaters for $16,000 in 1924.
Before that, in the late 1800s, T. Egenton Hogg had a green glint in his eye ~ the glint of cash. He envisioned railroad tracks and trains running from the Oregon coast into Central Oregon over the Santiam Pass. With transcontinental vision, he could see trainload after trainload hauling giant Oregon lumber to the East. Mr. Hogg’s railroad scheme crumbled, tainted with suspected misuse of investors’ funds. Perhaps, too, potential investors were rightly skeptical to sink money into a railroad built on the crumbly volcanic rock of Santiam Pass. Even today, great chunks of highway are prone to tumble down the hillside. The possibility of a railroad died out only after 1930, when the Portland and Southeastern Railroad filed for a right of way across “Hogg Pass,” which evidently was never granted.
Meanwhile, S. O. Johnson was experiencing transformed vision. Instead of an industry with raw materials all around, he began to see a sacred mystery of exquisite and delicate beauty, to be protected yet shared. He transmitted this vision to his son, Sam, to whom he sold the property for $1 in 1934. S. O. Johnson chose to serve as statesman for the common good instead of henchman to the Almighty Dollar.
Sam and Becky Johnson, and now their daughters, kept the tradition of statesmanship, generosity, and preservation of a Creation not their own. As just one example, thousands of people each year can view majestic Mt. Jefferson from the Headwaters of the Metolius, without much harm, thanks to the scenic easement the Johnsons donated to the Forest Service in 1971.
You can't have a full-blown river coming out of the base of Black Butte, and smaller springs downstream, unless you have a large, uninterrupted groundwater supply. Tourists along the banks up and down stream are one thing, but source disruptions are quite another.
In recent years, Becky worried because she saw the springs at the headwaters diminishing. We are distressed to see similar dwindling of the spring we know best, a few miles downstream. IT JUST CAN’T BE RIGHT to allow destination resorts in the Metolius Basin, with thousands of homes and possibly golf courses sucking up unprecedented and inconceivable quantities of this diminishing groundwater.
We don’t need to spell out the lesson in this story for Oregon Representatives who choose to serve as stateswomen and statesmen protecting the common good.
As inheritors of scarce private acres in the Metolius Basin, we know some might see us as selfishly wishing to preserve for ourselves a unique treasure. On the contrary, fly-fishers, rafters, hikers, bird watchers and other unknown visitors often pass through our undeveloped fence-free forest; we simply trust them to respect it. Like most Metolius property owners, for generations our family has saved the Metolius for countless others by remaining alert to forces that would diminish it for all.
That we happen to own land does not cancel out the harm threatened by giant destination resorts that would alter the Metolius beyond recognition. We urge you to support SB 30, with a vision to Save the Metolius and its irreplaceable values for all of the people.
Sincerely,
Marie Sheahan Brown
Camp Sherman, OR
Leslie Ann Brown McMillan
Brooklyn, NY
Thanking Senator Westlund - Al Krause, Sisters
Senator Westlund,
Thanks for all your hard work on SB30. You rightfully should feel good
about what you accomplished. Future generations of Oregonians will be
grateful if the measure becomes law.
Regards, Al Krause, Sisters, OR.
Thanks for all your hard work on SB30. You rightfully should feel good
about what you accomplished. Future generations of Oregonians will be
grateful if the measure becomes law.
Regards, Al Krause, Sisters, OR.
Thanks For Passing Senate Bill 30 - Kathy Krause, Portland
[Sent to Oregon's State Senators:]
My deepest respect and thanks goes to all of you for your vote to pass Senate Bill 30 today! Faith in our "system" was restored when I learned all of you had listened to the concerns and requests of every day Oregonians and used your position to have our voices heard! I know all of you have extremely tough, demanding and usually, thankless jobs. With great respect, I thank you for taking the time to educate yourselves about the issue and speak on behalf of so many Oregonians who believe this State can be a wonderful combination of growth, success and protected natural treasures! You will be forever remembered as leaders for our State and for having had the forethought to help protect an Oregon jewel! You will be known for having the wisdom to research an issue and execute the right decision so that someday, we will never have to ask why no one cared. Your vote showed you did due diligence and that great thought was made ahead of time about the ramifications of a Jefferson County decision to allow resort properties within three miles of the Metolius Basin. I don't believe Jefferson County gave any thought on long term effects their decision would have on this protected and valuable Oregon wonder. Thank you thinking this one through!
Again, thank you for keeping Oregon the type of place that has keeps me here! I listened to the Senate vote via "streamline" today and will always remember each of your names and voices as you cast your vote.
With great respect and appreciation,
Kathy Krause
Portland, Oregon
Multnomah County
My deepest respect and thanks goes to all of you for your vote to pass Senate Bill 30 today! Faith in our "system" was restored when I learned all of you had listened to the concerns and requests of every day Oregonians and used your position to have our voices heard! I know all of you have extremely tough, demanding and usually, thankless jobs. With great respect, I thank you for taking the time to educate yourselves about the issue and speak on behalf of so many Oregonians who believe this State can be a wonderful combination of growth, success and protected natural treasures! You will be forever remembered as leaders for our State and for having had the forethought to help protect an Oregon jewel! You will be known for having the wisdom to research an issue and execute the right decision so that someday, we will never have to ask why no one cared. Your vote showed you did due diligence and that great thought was made ahead of time about the ramifications of a Jefferson County decision to allow resort properties within three miles of the Metolius Basin. I don't believe Jefferson County gave any thought on long term effects their decision would have on this protected and valuable Oregon wonder. Thank you thinking this one through!
Again, thank you for keeping Oregon the type of place that has keeps me here! I listened to the Senate vote via "streamline" today and will always remember each of your names and voices as you cast your vote.
With great respect and appreciation,
Kathy Krause
Portland, Oregon
Multnomah County
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Senate Bill 30 Passes Senate with 19 votes - LandWatch
Hello SB 30 Supporters:
It gives us great pleasure to announce to you that mere moments ago, Senate Bill 30 passed the Senate floor by the wide margin of 19-11! That’s a resounding victory!!
We’ve also just learned that the Warm Springs Tribes – upon whose decision we’ve been anxiously awaiting – have informed the legislature that they are completely behind Senate Bill 30, so that gives the bill an extra push as it heads into the House.
So take a moment and pat yourselves on the back for a job well done.
A lot of work remains ahead to get the bill through the House, but we’ll worry about that just a little bit later.
-Central Oregon LandWatch
P.S. It was on this day (May 22nd) in 1902 that President Roosevelt established Crater Lake as the nation’s fifth National Park. Thanks to Senator Rick Metsger for pointing this out and making a very appropriate comparison during a floor speech in which he announced his strong support for Senate Bill 30.
It gives us great pleasure to announce to you that mere moments ago, Senate Bill 30 passed the Senate floor by the wide margin of 19-11! That’s a resounding victory!!
We’ve also just learned that the Warm Springs Tribes – upon whose decision we’ve been anxiously awaiting – have informed the legislature that they are completely behind Senate Bill 30, so that gives the bill an extra push as it heads into the House.
So take a moment and pat yourselves on the back for a job well done.
A lot of work remains ahead to get the bill through the House, but we’ll worry about that just a little bit later.
-Central Oregon LandWatch
P.S. It was on this day (May 22nd) in 1902 that President Roosevelt established Crater Lake as the nation’s fifth National Park. Thanks to Senator Rick Metsger for pointing this out and making a very appropriate comparison during a floor speech in which he announced his strong support for Senate Bill 30.
Monday, May 21, 2007
Protect The Metolius - Bill Leininger, Sisters
Dear Members of the Oregon Legislature,
[Sent to Senators Brown, Courtney, Johnson, Wesltund, and Reps. Merkley, Hunt, and Whisnant:]
I am writing to urge you to support Senate Bill 30, in its original form, and all future efforts to protect and preserve the Metolius River Basin. The Metolius River Basin is a National Treasure that must be preserved for all in its natural state. To allow destination resorts or any development of the magnitude proposed would be disastrous .... it would serve no one other than the developers and Jefferson County through increased tax revenues.
The destination resorts would not even serve those who were to buy into them. At present, visitors to the area marvel and question, "Wouldn't it be wonderful if I were to own a small piece of this?" The answer is that they, and everyone else, now own a piece of this wonderland ... they are able to visit, enjoy, and then move on so that others are allowed to do the same. If destination resorts are allowed to develop the people buying into them would soon find what they had tried to buy no longer existed: (1) When you visit the Camp Sherman Store is it the same experience as when you go to Safeway? (2) When you hike or picnic in the solitude of the tall pines on Green Tree Ridge is it the same as sitting on your deck amongst 2500 homes watching people knock around golf balls on your front lawn? (3) Or, is sitting on the river bank listening to the musical flow of a clear stream the same as listening to hordes of people moving up and down the crowded streamside path? People settling at, and visiting, destination resorts find that they have not escaped ... rather that everything that they were trying to get away from they have brought with them.
What would be the impact on the river? Would the springs feeding the river dry up? I don't know? Would the water purity suffer, from drain-off from surrounding developments, upsetting the whole river ecosystem? I am not sure of the answer to that one either. I am sure however that we can not threaten this pure river habitat with even the slightest risk that might have such disastrous results. We are now surrounded with efforts of trying to restore fish runs and water quality due to our past mistakes .... Klamath River, the Snake, Whychus Creek, Deschutes, the entire Columbia River system. We can not afford to continue to blunder ahead, governed by greed for dollars, at the expense of our environment. Protect what we have ... think beyond immediate financial gain to the welfare of future generations and the welfare of our ecosystem. Now is the time to act .... failure to do so would be negligent and the effects irreversible.
It has been said that the "haves" are trying to deny the "have-nots" from getting an equal share .... I believe this is in reference to the residents of Camp Sherman trying to deny access and ownership from all others that might want to buy into the area. I don't see this to be the case. In fact most of the concern for the future of the Metolius River Basin that I have heard have come from outside of Camp Sherman, outside of Central Oregon, and much from outside of the state of Oregon. These people realize that the Metolius now belongs to all of them to enjoy when they can ... if resorts are allowed to develop this will no longer be the case and, in effect, the river they love to visit may cease to exist. At present I find the people residing in Camp Sherman to be very welcoming of us "outsiders". Perhaps the granting of long-term government leases for summer and permanent homes in the area was a mistake but this does not justify compounding the problem through making even further mistakes to a point where there is no return.
If Jefferson County needs the tax revenue I am sure there are areas better suited for destination resorts along the rim of the Crooked River near Madras where boating opportunities abound. I would hope that these would not include more golf courses. There are ample golf-course destination resorts now, and being developed, in Deschutes and Crook Counties. This has to have an eventual negative impact on our water table and the water cycle. The opening of the prison in Madras should help ease the impact of businesses recently closed in Madras and Culver. I do think however that it would be good to concentrate future efforts on attracting further business and industry to the Hwy 97 corridor rather than trying to raise tax revenues through destination resorts.
Again I urge you to support Senate Bill 30 in its original form as well as supporting all future efforts to protect and preserve the Metolius River Basin.
Sincerely,
Bill Leininger
Sisters, OR
[Sent to Senators Brown, Courtney, Johnson, Wesltund, and Reps. Merkley, Hunt, and Whisnant:]
I am writing to urge you to support Senate Bill 30, in its original form, and all future efforts to protect and preserve the Metolius River Basin. The Metolius River Basin is a National Treasure that must be preserved for all in its natural state. To allow destination resorts or any development of the magnitude proposed would be disastrous .... it would serve no one other than the developers and Jefferson County through increased tax revenues.
The destination resorts would not even serve those who were to buy into them. At present, visitors to the area marvel and question, "Wouldn't it be wonderful if I were to own a small piece of this?" The answer is that they, and everyone else, now own a piece of this wonderland ... they are able to visit, enjoy, and then move on so that others are allowed to do the same. If destination resorts are allowed to develop the people buying into them would soon find what they had tried to buy no longer existed: (1) When you visit the Camp Sherman Store is it the same experience as when you go to Safeway? (2) When you hike or picnic in the solitude of the tall pines on Green Tree Ridge is it the same as sitting on your deck amongst 2500 homes watching people knock around golf balls on your front lawn? (3) Or, is sitting on the river bank listening to the musical flow of a clear stream the same as listening to hordes of people moving up and down the crowded streamside path? People settling at, and visiting, destination resorts find that they have not escaped ... rather that everything that they were trying to get away from they have brought with them.
What would be the impact on the river? Would the springs feeding the river dry up? I don't know? Would the water purity suffer, from drain-off from surrounding developments, upsetting the whole river ecosystem? I am not sure of the answer to that one either. I am sure however that we can not threaten this pure river habitat with even the slightest risk that might have such disastrous results. We are now surrounded with efforts of trying to restore fish runs and water quality due to our past mistakes .... Klamath River, the Snake, Whychus Creek, Deschutes, the entire Columbia River system. We can not afford to continue to blunder ahead, governed by greed for dollars, at the expense of our environment. Protect what we have ... think beyond immediate financial gain to the welfare of future generations and the welfare of our ecosystem. Now is the time to act .... failure to do so would be negligent and the effects irreversible.
It has been said that the "haves" are trying to deny the "have-nots" from getting an equal share .... I believe this is in reference to the residents of Camp Sherman trying to deny access and ownership from all others that might want to buy into the area. I don't see this to be the case. In fact most of the concern for the future of the Metolius River Basin that I have heard have come from outside of Camp Sherman, outside of Central Oregon, and much from outside of the state of Oregon. These people realize that the Metolius now belongs to all of them to enjoy when they can ... if resorts are allowed to develop this will no longer be the case and, in effect, the river they love to visit may cease to exist. At present I find the people residing in Camp Sherman to be very welcoming of us "outsiders". Perhaps the granting of long-term government leases for summer and permanent homes in the area was a mistake but this does not justify compounding the problem through making even further mistakes to a point where there is no return.
If Jefferson County needs the tax revenue I am sure there are areas better suited for destination resorts along the rim of the Crooked River near Madras where boating opportunities abound. I would hope that these would not include more golf courses. There are ample golf-course destination resorts now, and being developed, in Deschutes and Crook Counties. This has to have an eventual negative impact on our water table and the water cycle. The opening of the prison in Madras should help ease the impact of businesses recently closed in Madras and Culver. I do think however that it would be good to concentrate future efforts on attracting further business and industry to the Hwy 97 corridor rather than trying to raise tax revenues through destination resorts.
Again I urge you to support Senate Bill 30 in its original form as well as supporting all future efforts to protect and preserve the Metolius River Basin.
Sincerely,
Bill Leininger
Sisters, OR
One Of Many Letters - The Schay Family, Camp Sherman
[Sent to all State Representatives:]
We hope this is only one of many letters you will receive supporting SB 30 that will preserve the Metolius Basin. There are a few special places in Oregon where destination resorts should not be allowed and the Metolius Basin is one of them. This bill should be passed without compromise.
The Metolius River has been enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year because of it's quiet beauty, clear water and magnificent forests. It has remained this way because it is mostly federal land well managed by the US Forest Service. The private inholdings are mostly occupied by small cabins and houses on large lots and the locals, about 250 residents, are good stewards of the land. Their presence does not degrade the area.Large destination resorts with hundreds of homes and rental units would destroy the charm of the village and absolutely affect the ambiance of the Wild and Scenic river.
The developers' and Jefferson county's desire for money should not be allowed to carry the day on this issue. Central Oregon is chock-a-block with destination resorts which in actuality are towns outside the urban growth boundaries of Bend, Redmond, Sisters, etc. The proposed resort on the east boundary of the Metolius Basin would be many times larger than Sisters only 10 miles away. The impact on water, roads, traffic, schools, wildlife habitat would be huge! The smaller proposed resort is right smack in the middle of Forest Service land. The Deschutes Forest Plan recognizes the special values of the basin and Sisters Ranger District does an excellent job implementing the plan. This private 627 acre parcel should be part of the National Forest and certainly not some sort of major development dressed in ecological clothes.
We urge your support. If paved and developed, Oregon will have lost a natural treasure enjoyed by many for the use and short term financial benefit of a few.
Pete and Magda Schay
Camp Sherman, Oregon
We hope this is only one of many letters you will receive supporting SB 30 that will preserve the Metolius Basin. There are a few special places in Oregon where destination resorts should not be allowed and the Metolius Basin is one of them. This bill should be passed without compromise.
The Metolius River has been enjoyed by thousands of visitors every year because of it's quiet beauty, clear water and magnificent forests. It has remained this way because it is mostly federal land well managed by the US Forest Service. The private inholdings are mostly occupied by small cabins and houses on large lots and the locals, about 250 residents, are good stewards of the land. Their presence does not degrade the area.Large destination resorts with hundreds of homes and rental units would destroy the charm of the village and absolutely affect the ambiance of the Wild and Scenic river.
The developers' and Jefferson county's desire for money should not be allowed to carry the day on this issue. Central Oregon is chock-a-block with destination resorts which in actuality are towns outside the urban growth boundaries of Bend, Redmond, Sisters, etc. The proposed resort on the east boundary of the Metolius Basin would be many times larger than Sisters only 10 miles away. The impact on water, roads, traffic, schools, wildlife habitat would be huge! The smaller proposed resort is right smack in the middle of Forest Service land. The Deschutes Forest Plan recognizes the special values of the basin and Sisters Ranger District does an excellent job implementing the plan. This private 627 acre parcel should be part of the National Forest and certainly not some sort of major development dressed in ecological clothes.
We urge your support. If paved and developed, Oregon will have lost a natural treasure enjoyed by many for the use and short term financial benefit of a few.
Pete and Magda Schay
Camp Sherman, Oregon
Support From Rainland Fly Casters - Walt Weber, Astoria
[Sent to House Committee on Agriculture and National Resources and Rep. Merkley]
I support SB 30. My concern about these developments is the potential for adverse impacts on Lake Cr., downstream in the Metolius R. and Fly Cr. The T/E Bull Trout in the Metolius R. and tributaries need very cold water to complete their life cycle. The T/E Redband Rainbow Trout could be adversely impacted by changes in groundwater flows or pollution from the development in that area. Lake Cr. water quality maintenance is very important in view of the proposed reintroduction of Sockeye Salmon into the watershed. They are also dependent on cold, clean water and Lake Cr. is the only conduit to the key Suttle Lake rearing area and Suttle Lake spawning tributaries. I am the Conservation Director for the Astoria based conservation group, Rainland Fly Casters. I am also a Native Fish Society River Steward. I worked out the Bend ODFW office from 1988-1993 so am somewhat familiar with the Metolius basin. Thank you for consideration of my comments.
Walt Weber.
I support SB 30. My concern about these developments is the potential for adverse impacts on Lake Cr., downstream in the Metolius R. and Fly Cr. The T/E Bull Trout in the Metolius R. and tributaries need very cold water to complete their life cycle. The T/E Redband Rainbow Trout could be adversely impacted by changes in groundwater flows or pollution from the development in that area. Lake Cr. water quality maintenance is very important in view of the proposed reintroduction of Sockeye Salmon into the watershed. They are also dependent on cold, clean water and Lake Cr. is the only conduit to the key Suttle Lake rearing area and Suttle Lake spawning tributaries. I am the Conservation Director for the Astoria based conservation group, Rainland Fly Casters. I am also a Native Fish Society River Steward. I worked out the Bend ODFW office from 1988-1993 so am somewhat familiar with the Metolius basin. Thank you for consideration of my comments.
Walt Weber.
Don't Transform Metolius - Duncan Robertson, Portland
Dear Senator Nelson:
I first encountered the Metolius River and its magnificent setting at the age of five. Since then I have visited there every summer but one, in my 64 years (and a couple of winters). For me and my family it continues to be perhaps the most special place in the world – even though now I speak on cruise ships, and have considerable lands with which to compare it. On a cruise just this month we visited Bora Bora – also known as one of the most beautiful places on earth – and I suddenly realized that I must write to you regarding your action on Senate Bill 30 and related steps. I had been to Bora Bora perhaps 15 years ago on a small ship and celebrated the pristine beaches and clear waters. This time I landed with some 3,500 passengers and crew of two cruise ships. It was like an invasion force.
The pure and simple beauty of Waikiki with its fragrant lei wagons along Kalakaua Avenue is now obliterated; fortunately someone stepped in and halted further development of Yosemite before it was lost forever. In the interest of simply being responsible human beings we must not destroy this perfect treasure, certainly the jewel of Oregon, by prostituting it for the sake of personal and tax dollars.
I have heard the argument that bringing a “destination resort” would burden the available water – and of course that’s true, together with the sewage disposal problem. But I see that as secondary to adding the numbers of people and commerce that would transform the area from being a peaceful and awe inspiring retreat – where a kid can still go camping and catch a fish - into something more resembling a theme park.
Thus I am writing to thank you for your conscientious and responsible dealing with SB 30, that hopefully will place a major obstacle in the way of further efforts to ruin this most beautiful of places.
Very Truly Yours,
Duncan K. Robertson
Portland, OR
I first encountered the Metolius River and its magnificent setting at the age of five. Since then I have visited there every summer but one, in my 64 years (and a couple of winters). For me and my family it continues to be perhaps the most special place in the world – even though now I speak on cruise ships, and have considerable lands with which to compare it. On a cruise just this month we visited Bora Bora – also known as one of the most beautiful places on earth – and I suddenly realized that I must write to you regarding your action on Senate Bill 30 and related steps. I had been to Bora Bora perhaps 15 years ago on a small ship and celebrated the pristine beaches and clear waters. This time I landed with some 3,500 passengers and crew of two cruise ships. It was like an invasion force.
The pure and simple beauty of Waikiki with its fragrant lei wagons along Kalakaua Avenue is now obliterated; fortunately someone stepped in and halted further development of Yosemite before it was lost forever. In the interest of simply being responsible human beings we must not destroy this perfect treasure, certainly the jewel of Oregon, by prostituting it for the sake of personal and tax dollars.
I have heard the argument that bringing a “destination resort” would burden the available water – and of course that’s true, together with the sewage disposal problem. But I see that as secondary to adding the numbers of people and commerce that would transform the area from being a peaceful and awe inspiring retreat – where a kid can still go camping and catch a fish - into something more resembling a theme park.
Thus I am writing to thank you for your conscientious and responsible dealing with SB 30, that hopefully will place a major obstacle in the way of further efforts to ruin this most beautiful of places.
Very Truly Yours,
Duncan K. Robertson
Portland, OR
Sunday, May 20, 2007
You Don't Know What You've Got Til It's Gone - Mary Hogan, Hailey ID
Dear Senator,
Please protect the Metolius Basin from destination resort developments.
When ever I see or hear of more development I think of the Joni Mitchell’s song, "Big Yellow Taxi".
The second verse says:
“They took all the trees
And put them in a tree museum
And they charged all the people
A dollar and a half just to see 'em
Don't it always seem to go
That you don't know what you've got
Till it's gone
They paved paradise
And put up a parking lot."
The Metolius is the most special place to me. I spent a month every summer growing up there. Every time I go back, it is the one place that has not changed. My grandparents built a cabin in 1938 on a leased lot from the Forest Service.
I would be so sad and disappointed to see the area change. We need to protect the Metolius Basin from developers.
A development would impact the water table, the river, the native plants, animals and their habitat. The American people do not need another golf course in the area; they do not need second homes, mansions, restaurants, lodges, etc.; there is no need for more roads. This would affect so much of the natural beauty including animal migration.
A bumper sticker I recently read on a car said " THE MORE I KNOW, THE LESS I NEED".
Our society in general seems to only think of money, short term gains and our selves. What about the animals, the watershed and the native plants?
There is no other place in Oregon like the Metolius Basin. There are so many places like Black Butte Ranch, Sun River etc. It must be saved and protected for future generations including native species.
Please do not " pave another paradise"
Sincerely, Mary Hogan
Hailey, Idaho
Please protect the Metolius Basin from destination resort developments.
When ever I see or hear of more development I think of the Joni Mitchell’s song, "Big Yellow Taxi".
The second verse says:
“They took all the trees
And put them in a tree museum
And they charged all the people
A dollar and a half just to see 'em
Don't it always seem to go
That you don't know what you've got
Till it's gone
They paved paradise
And put up a parking lot."
The Metolius is the most special place to me. I spent a month every summer growing up there. Every time I go back, it is the one place that has not changed. My grandparents built a cabin in 1938 on a leased lot from the Forest Service.
I would be so sad and disappointed to see the area change. We need to protect the Metolius Basin from developers.
A development would impact the water table, the river, the native plants, animals and their habitat. The American people do not need another golf course in the area; they do not need second homes, mansions, restaurants, lodges, etc.; there is no need for more roads. This would affect so much of the natural beauty including animal migration.
A bumper sticker I recently read on a car said " THE MORE I KNOW, THE LESS I NEED".
Our society in general seems to only think of money, short term gains and our selves. What about the animals, the watershed and the native plants?
There is no other place in Oregon like the Metolius Basin. There are so many places like Black Butte Ranch, Sun River etc. It must be saved and protected for future generations including native species.
Please do not " pave another paradise"
Sincerely, Mary Hogan
Hailey, Idaho
