Don't Allow Metolius To Become A Commodity - Karyn Black, Bend

[Sen to all Representatives:]

I am writing to express my support of SB 30 and to ask that you support this bill as well. As an Oregonian for the last 8 years (and I plan on many more), I appreciate the diverse and beautiful landscapes that are found in Oregon. The Metolius River and surrounding forest is one of my favorite areas to visit, as it is not far from my home in Bend and offers wonderful hiking opportunities along the river. Coming from a state where natural resources were viewed as a commodity to be developed and profited from and the resulting harm that came from those activities, I can tell you that the natural resources of Oregon are very precious - and outstanding examples, such as the Metolius should be protected from further development forever.

Take a moment and consider what draws people to Oregon - it is the natural beauty of the state - and the fact that there are undeveloped areas where people can get away from the hustle and bustle of their daily lives. They are drawn to Oregon because it is unique in its diversity of landscapes, abundant in recreational opportunities and because of the forethought of our early leaders, much of it has remained undeveloped.

As special as Oregon is, naturally people want to move here and live or stay in the places that speak to their souls; But that does NOT mean that we should allow the outstanding areas of Oregon to be developed into resorts and housing! With each area such as the Metolius that we allow to be developed, Oregon loses a little bit of its uniqueness and becomes a little be more like the places that people are trying to get away from.

Oregon's early leaders had the forethought to protect some of Oregon's special places and I hope that our current leaders will have the same forethought to protect even more of the state from needless development. Keep Oregon special - a place that is different - a place where outstanding natural areas remain open to everyone who is willing to get out of their car and walk around a bit and not just the folks who can buy a view of the mountains and membership to a private golf course. Support SB 30!

Sincerely,

Karyn Black
Bend, OR