About twenty years ago, my wife, two small children, and I were able to spend a month on the Metolius River. We explored the Metolius Basin by foot, bicycle, and horseback. We were forever impacted by the diverse pristine beauty of the river and its tributaries. Shortly thereafter, we moved to Sisters from Boulder Colorado and maintained a steady schedule of camping, biking, and fishing on the Metolius.
About 6 years ago, a dream was realized when purchased the Metolius River Lodges, 13 cabins on the river with 1950s charm. Our guests are mostly second and third generation vacationers, birders, fisherman (and women), and families introducing their young children to the unique beauty of the Metolius. A number of our friends and guests are appalled at the prospect of mammoth resort developments which would have an irrevocable adverse impact on the river and its supporting ecosystem.
After 20 years in the Sisters area, we have noticed the effects of climate change, which so far have not visibly altered the Metolius. However with the massive water demands of the proposed destination resorts coupled with diminished snow pack, there is a great likelihood of irreparable damage on the Basin’s water table and the springs and tributaries, which have formed the Metolius for centuries. Once the river flow is disturbed, there is no man made “quick fix”.
The Bulletin several editorials against SB30 insinuate that the aim of SB30 is to protect the value of Senator Becky Johnson’s (D.Scappose) Metolius homestead. The Bulletin raises the classic “red herring” and demeans the memory of a true Oregonian. The late Becky Johnson, the matriarch of the Friends of the Metolius donated the viewing area of the Headwaters of the Metolius so that thousands of visitors, could be awestruck at the humble origin of a 22 mile Wild and Scenic river.
In probably her last public appearance last fall in Camp Sherman at a meeting of the Jefferson County Planning Commission, Becky Johnson passionately argued against the establishment of any destination resorts, which could harm the Metolius Basin ecosystem.
To equate Betsy Johnson co-sponsorship of SB30 with personal greed does a disservice to her mother who was revered in this community.
The absurdity of the Bulletin argument is that Becky Johnson’s property on the Metolius are almost priceless. The proposed destination resorts could not diminish the economic value of her land, and in fact might even enhance it. The only real monetary gain is for the developers of the resorts who hope to make millions selling second homes to wealthy investors. Of course, the Jefferson County Commissioners are focused solely on adding to their tax base rent. Over the years, they have paid scant attention to Camp Sherman except to raise the transit lodging tax on the guests to stay in the area.
By couching this issue as a local government right to exercise its land use power, the Bulletin intentional ignores the real issue of the States interest in responsibility to preserve a national treasure admired and enjoyed by Oregonians and visitors from all over the world. With a designation as a wild and scenic rivers the many books on its geography, bird and wild life, native bull trout, it is clear that the Metolius is a unique creation. No local government, golf resort developer, or even private landowners like us, “owns” the Metolius. We can only count our blessings that we are privileged to enjoy its unspoiled beauty and preserve the Metolius for future generations.
John & Vickie Hornbeck
Metolius River Lodges
Camp Sherman, Oregon
Showing posts with label Westlund. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Westlund. Show all posts
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Watercolor - Rebecca Wood Hardesty
Dear Senator Westlund,
I painted this watercolor of the Metolius River Basin (near Camp Sherman) this month and am sending you a file containing the picture. Please feel free to use it as you wish in any correspondence or otherwise (you have my full permission to reprint) in support of SB 30. I think visualizing the scenic elements helps people relate to the purpose of SB 30.
Please call or email me with any questions.
Respectfully,
Rebecca Biddle Wood Hardesty
Boise, ID
I painted this watercolor of the Metolius River Basin (near Camp Sherman) this month and am sending you a file containing the picture. Please feel free to use it as you wish in any correspondence or otherwise (you have my full permission to reprint) in support of SB 30. I think visualizing the scenic elements helps people relate to the purpose of SB 30.
Please call or email me with any questions.
Respectfully,
Rebecca Biddle Wood Hardesty
Boise, ID
Saturday, May 26, 2007
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
Thursday, May 24, 2007
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
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.
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
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
Monday, May 14, 2007
Fighting For The Metolius - Pat Krause, Portland
Dear Senator Westlund,
Thank you, for your determination and persistence in saving the Metolius River Basin. As you know, there are so many people who feel as you do and are so very grateful for your continuing efforts to see this bill passed as you invisioned it. Let us know how we can support the bill, and you, through the process of getting this most important bill passed. Of course, we will continue to write letters and "spread the word". Thank you for fighting for the Metolius so it can be treasured, enjoyed and protected for all of us.
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, OR
Thank you, for your determination and persistence in saving the Metolius River Basin. As you know, there are so many people who feel as you do and are so very grateful for your continuing efforts to see this bill passed as you invisioned it. Let us know how we can support the bill, and you, through the process of getting this most important bill passed. Of course, we will continue to write letters and "spread the word". Thank you for fighting for the Metolius so it can be treasured, enjoyed and protected for all of us.
Sincerely,
Pat Krause
Portland, OR
Sunday, May 13, 2007
An Afternoon Trip To The Metolius - Heather McNeill, Bend
Sent to Reps Roblan, Bruun, and Burley, and Senators Verger, Devlin, and Westlund
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Thank You Senator Westlund - Mary Wood, Eugene
Dear Senator: Thank you SO much for the personal phone call telling me the wonderful news about the Metolius bill! What a relief. I can't even begin to say how much I admire your vision and persistence in protecting this jewel. You are my hero, and you will be the hero to countless generations who visit the basin. Thank you again so much. I look forward to keeping in touch. Let me know how I can support you in the next steps. Mary
Explosion of Resorts Threatens Quality of Life - Kay Walsh, Bend
Dear Senator Westlund,
I am writing to voice a strong opinion that no resorts be built near the Metolius River. I have been visiting that little bit of pristine paradise since the 60's and when I lived in the Midwest and my life was full of stress, I would close my eyes and walk the river path north from the camp Sherman bridge past the old cabins and up to the next bridge.
When I returned to Oregon and on all my visits in between I made sure to include that magic place. It was always quiet with few people and I could fly fish in peace.
When I moved to Bend in 2005 I found a great doctor who practices in Bend. He too told me one of his favorite places in all the world was the Metolious River.
The explosion of destination resorts since I arrived is threatening the quality of life that I moved here for.
Even thinking of putting thousands of people anywhere near that basin is beyond my comprehension and really wrong for all the future generations. It is truly one of the last best sacred places.
Please do every thing you can to preserve it.
Sincerely,
Kay Walsh
Bend, Oregon
I am writing to voice a strong opinion that no resorts be built near the Metolius River. I have been visiting that little bit of pristine paradise since the 60's and when I lived in the Midwest and my life was full of stress, I would close my eyes and walk the river path north from the camp Sherman bridge past the old cabins and up to the next bridge.
When I returned to Oregon and on all my visits in between I made sure to include that magic place. It was always quiet with few people and I could fly fish in peace.
When I moved to Bend in 2005 I found a great doctor who practices in Bend. He too told me one of his favorite places in all the world was the Metolious River.
The explosion of destination resorts since I arrived is threatening the quality of life that I moved here for.
Even thinking of putting thousands of people anywhere near that basin is beyond my comprehension and really wrong for all the future generations. It is truly one of the last best sacred places.
Please do every thing you can to preserve it.
Sincerely,
Kay Walsh
Bend, Oregon
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Reaffirming My Support - Marie Sheahan Brown, Camp Sherman
[Sent to Senators Johnson, Brown, Westlund, Burdick, and similar letter to Senators Ferrioli, Monnes Anderson, and Nelson:]
I have written to you twice before, urging your support for the ORIGINAL version of SB 30 to Save the Metolius. I now write to you as a member of the Senate Rules Committee.
While reaffirming my support for the ORIGINAL version of SB 30, I wish to clarify that I would not want this legislation possibly to be interpreted to eliminate the existing small, historic resorts and occasional B&Bs in existing homes in the Metolius Basin.
I believe these existing small resorts ought NOT be permitted to expand, for the same reasons that large Destination Resorts ought not be permitted. However, I am one of many who regard these small, historically present resorts as part of the cherished ambiance of Camp Sherman and the Metolius Basin. These few, small temporary lodgings have enabled generations of people to visit the Metolius for decades without undue or irreversible harm to the ecosystem.
Specifically, I am referring to the following sites:
Black Butte Resort & RV Park
Camp Sherman Store (a couple of rental rooms)
Cold Springs Resort
House on the Metolius
Lake Creek Lodge
Metolius River Lodges
Metolius River Resort
Suttle Lake Lodge
Twin View Resort
I am a native of Camp Sherman, 50 years old, and each one of these small resorts existed before I was born.
Thank you, Senator, for restoring the ORIGINAL version of SB 30 and maintaining the irreplaceable values of the Metolius Basin.
Sincerely,
Marie Sheahan Brown
Camp Sherman OR
I have written to you twice before, urging your support for the ORIGINAL version of SB 30 to Save the Metolius. I now write to you as a member of the Senate Rules Committee.
While reaffirming my support for the ORIGINAL version of SB 30, I wish to clarify that I would not want this legislation possibly to be interpreted to eliminate the existing small, historic resorts and occasional B&Bs in existing homes in the Metolius Basin.
I believe these existing small resorts ought NOT be permitted to expand, for the same reasons that large Destination Resorts ought not be permitted. However, I am one of many who regard these small, historically present resorts as part of the cherished ambiance of Camp Sherman and the Metolius Basin. These few, small temporary lodgings have enabled generations of people to visit the Metolius for decades without undue or irreversible harm to the ecosystem.
Specifically, I am referring to the following sites:
Black Butte Resort & RV Park
Camp Sherman Store (a couple of rental rooms)
Cold Springs Resort
House on the Metolius
Lake Creek Lodge
Metolius River Lodges
Metolius River Resort
Suttle Lake Lodge
Twin View Resort
I am a native of Camp Sherman, 50 years old, and each one of these small resorts existed before I was born.
Thank you, Senator, for restoring the ORIGINAL version of SB 30 and maintaining the irreplaceable values of the Metolius Basin.
Sincerely,
Marie Sheahan Brown
Camp Sherman OR
Supporting The Original Vision For SB 30 - Michael Funke, Bend
[Sent to Senate Rules COmmittee Members, Senator Westlund and Reps. Merkley, Hunt, and Roblan:]
As an avid fly fisher who frequently visits the Metolius Basin, I strongly support the original version of Senate Bill 30 and the vision behind it. I don't own any land in the area and don't expect to ever own land there. But I visit frequently and feel we need a total prohibition on resorts in or within three miles of the Metolius River watershed.
Those of us who live here in Central Oregon have seen more than our share of destination resorts popping up all over the region. Powell Butte has been permanently altered by resorts. We really need to preserve some of the beauty of this region and not just turn it over to resorts. The Metolius Basin is a very special place, in my opinion, and it deserves special treatment.
Please support the original SB 30 in the Senate and in the House. Thank you.
Peace, Justice, Solidarity,
Michael Funke
Bend, OR
Trout Unlimited member
As an avid fly fisher who frequently visits the Metolius Basin, I strongly support the original version of Senate Bill 30 and the vision behind it. I don't own any land in the area and don't expect to ever own land there. But I visit frequently and feel we need a total prohibition on resorts in or within three miles of the Metolius River watershed.
Those of us who live here in Central Oregon have seen more than our share of destination resorts popping up all over the region. Powell Butte has been permanently altered by resorts. We really need to preserve some of the beauty of this region and not just turn it over to resorts. The Metolius Basin is a very special place, in my opinion, and it deserves special treatment.
Please support the original SB 30 in the Senate and in the House. Thank you.
Peace, Justice, Solidarity,
Michael Funke
Bend, OR
Trout Unlimited member
Committed To It's Beauty, History, And Preservation - Mary Jane K. Govaerts, Foster City, CA
Dear Senator Westlund [copied to Senator Burdick]:
Having been a registered voter fin San Mateo County, California for 26 years, I am writing my very first letter of support to a Government official. I find it ironic that this first letter is to a Senator outside of my County and State, but that is how passionate I am about this subject. I’m writing in support of SB 30 to provide any assistance that I can to help the save the Metolius River Basin. This pristine area has become a very special place to my family and I over the past many years. I am currently a resident of California, but spend each summer in Central Oregon with my family and friends enjoying the beauty of this rich area.
Having found this beautiful area that time seems to have forgotten has been a true a blessing. My time along the Metolius River is always a time of nourishment for my body and my soul. I have the great gift of being invited by a property owner to share a week of rest literally along the banks of the Metolius River in the town of Camp Sherman. I’ve had the opportunity to share with my family members, many of whom are residents of Oregon and some of our best times as grown adults have been in a little fishing lodge along the banks to the Metolius River. As a matter of fact, I am careful in who I share my knowledge of this area with in fear that it will become over visited, over populated, and thus exposed to those who might not respect or appreciate its uniqueness and vulnerability.
The people of Camp Sherman (residents, property owners, and the public servants) are so committed to its beauty, history and preservation that it reminds me of what is missing from many communities, and certainly my own, which is the agreement that the our environment is a gift from God and that as caretakers, we each have the responsibility to share it’s beauty while preserving it from being exploited and turned into yet another place for commerce to take over.
I greatly appreciate your support of the ORIGINAL version of SB 30 and although I’m not a registered voter in your Districtm I will continue to support SB 30 in any manner that I am able.
Sincerely,
Mary Jane K. Govaerts
Foster City, CA
Having been a registered voter fin San Mateo County, California for 26 years, I am writing my very first letter of support to a Government official. I find it ironic that this first letter is to a Senator outside of my County and State, but that is how passionate I am about this subject. I’m writing in support of SB 30 to provide any assistance that I can to help the save the Metolius River Basin. This pristine area has become a very special place to my family and I over the past many years. I am currently a resident of California, but spend each summer in Central Oregon with my family and friends enjoying the beauty of this rich area.
Having found this beautiful area that time seems to have forgotten has been a true a blessing. My time along the Metolius River is always a time of nourishment for my body and my soul. I have the great gift of being invited by a property owner to share a week of rest literally along the banks of the Metolius River in the town of Camp Sherman. I’ve had the opportunity to share with my family members, many of whom are residents of Oregon and some of our best times as grown adults have been in a little fishing lodge along the banks to the Metolius River. As a matter of fact, I am careful in who I share my knowledge of this area with in fear that it will become over visited, over populated, and thus exposed to those who might not respect or appreciate its uniqueness and vulnerability.
The people of Camp Sherman (residents, property owners, and the public servants) are so committed to its beauty, history and preservation that it reminds me of what is missing from many communities, and certainly my own, which is the agreement that the our environment is a gift from God and that as caretakers, we each have the responsibility to share it’s beauty while preserving it from being exploited and turned into yet another place for commerce to take over.
I greatly appreciate your support of the ORIGINAL version of SB 30 and although I’m not a registered voter in your Districtm I will continue to support SB 30 in any manner that I am able.
Sincerely,
Mary Jane K. Govaerts
Foster City, CA
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Only One Metolius - Dan and Linda Odum, San Carlos, California
Dear Senator Westlund,
I am a California resident who, with my children and grandchildren have been visiting dear friends in the Camp Sherman area of the Metolius Basin every summer for nearly 20 years.....and every visit provides rejuvenation and regeneration for all of us through the pristine beauty, amazing natural ambience and wonderful people with whom we've associated there. We appreciate California's great natural beauty, but we haven't found any other location that can compare to The Metolius Basin in Oregon for getting close to nature at the most basic level. We would urge you to use all of your official political power to maintain that very special ambience and prevent the permitting of construction of any type of destination resorts in or within a 3 mile radius of the Metolius river Basin.
Thank you for your most diligent attention to this serious matter.
Sincerely,
Dan and Linda Odum
Wade and CC Odum and family
Christian and Mindy Halden and family
San Carlos, CA
I am a California resident who, with my children and grandchildren have been visiting dear friends in the Camp Sherman area of the Metolius Basin every summer for nearly 20 years.....and every visit provides rejuvenation and regeneration for all of us through the pristine beauty, amazing natural ambience and wonderful people with whom we've associated there. We appreciate California's great natural beauty, but we haven't found any other location that can compare to The Metolius Basin in Oregon for getting close to nature at the most basic level. We would urge you to use all of your official political power to maintain that very special ambience and prevent the permitting of construction of any type of destination resorts in or within a 3 mile radius of the Metolius river Basin.
Thank you for your most diligent attention to this serious matter.
Sincerely,
Dan and Linda Odum
Wade and CC Odum and family
Christian and Mindy Halden and family
San Carlos, CA
Lessons From California - Frances B. Hogan, Palo Alto, CA
Dear Senators [Westlund and Burdick]:
My parents leased a lot from the Forest Service on the Metolius River in 1939, and now my husband and I continue to lease it. There are four generations of family, who enjoy vacationing there. We all realize how precious the Metolius Basin is and the irreplaceable qualities depend on the effects of the ecology and the natural resources!
Senate Bill 30 was a remarkable bill to be proposed by some of your senators!! They were recognizing the need to preserve and protect the Metolius Basin. Destination Resorts in that area would harm the treasures of the Metolius! Unfortunately the committee who was in charge of sending it the Senate added an amendment, which put it back in hands of the County, who evidently would like to reap the tax benefits from developing resorts. The resorts would not protect the ecology of the basin.
The residents of Camp Sherman and the Forest Service homeowners act at stewards of the basin and caretakers of the area so that others may come and enjoy it---safe-guarding it from investors who looking for the monetary gains. Living in California we know how important it is watch out for such inroads! This project sounds like a perfect example of things that occurred in this state. Fortunately we are in an area where people are concerned about preventing any environmentally incorrect things to happen.
I can't imagine that the eco-resort that has been proposed will be able to carry out many of their goals. With houses being built on it, how would it create a low impact, environmentally oriented, vacation community. It is bound to effect the environment. This land would be better used by the Land Trust or the Nature Conservatory where people can enjoy trails and the forest.
Sincerely,
Frances B. Hogan
Palo Alto, CA
My parents leased a lot from the Forest Service on the Metolius River in 1939, and now my husband and I continue to lease it. There are four generations of family, who enjoy vacationing there. We all realize how precious the Metolius Basin is and the irreplaceable qualities depend on the effects of the ecology and the natural resources!
Senate Bill 30 was a remarkable bill to be proposed by some of your senators!! They were recognizing the need to preserve and protect the Metolius Basin. Destination Resorts in that area would harm the treasures of the Metolius! Unfortunately the committee who was in charge of sending it the Senate added an amendment, which put it back in hands of the County, who evidently would like to reap the tax benefits from developing resorts. The resorts would not protect the ecology of the basin.
The residents of Camp Sherman and the Forest Service homeowners act at stewards of the basin and caretakers of the area so that others may come and enjoy it---safe-guarding it from investors who looking for the monetary gains. Living in California we know how important it is watch out for such inroads! This project sounds like a perfect example of things that occurred in this state. Fortunately we are in an area where people are concerned about preventing any environmentally incorrect things to happen.
I can't imagine that the eco-resort that has been proposed will be able to carry out many of their goals. With houses being built on it, how would it create a low impact, environmentally oriented, vacation community. It is bound to effect the environment. This land would be better used by the Land Trust or the Nature Conservatory where people can enjoy trails and the forest.
Sincerely,
Frances B. Hogan
Palo Alto, CA
Thursday, May 3, 2007
For The Greater Good - Tom Landis, Camp Sherman
Dear Senator Westlund,
It was great sadness that I watched Senate Bill 30 be so watered down in committee that the original purpose of the bill was completely reversed. Instead of providing the Metolius Basin protection from destination resort development, just the opposite in fact occurred. Under the provisions of the bill as amended, Jefferson County would have carte blanche to give destination resort developers almost anything they want.
I have been intimately involved with the land planning process in the Metolius Basin/Camp Sherman region for the last 15 years. If one thing is clearest to me, it is that Jefferson County has more concern for the tax revenues they can gain from development than they do for the outstandingly unique natural values of the area. This area desperately needs state protection from the special interests that would drive development at the county level, where dollars speak much more loudly than anything else. This is one of those times when the onus of planning simply must be taken away from local government for the greater good of the citizens of Oregon.
I urge you in the strongest terms to strip from SB 30 the amendment which turns its original protections into, simply, an invitation to developers. Return the bill to its original form and intent, which protects the Metolius River Basin and lands adjacent from destination resort development.
Yours very sincerely,
Thomas Landis
Camp Sherman, OR
It was great sadness that I watched Senate Bill 30 be so watered down in committee that the original purpose of the bill was completely reversed. Instead of providing the Metolius Basin protection from destination resort development, just the opposite in fact occurred. Under the provisions of the bill as amended, Jefferson County would have carte blanche to give destination resort developers almost anything they want.
I have been intimately involved with the land planning process in the Metolius Basin/Camp Sherman region for the last 15 years. If one thing is clearest to me, it is that Jefferson County has more concern for the tax revenues they can gain from development than they do for the outstandingly unique natural values of the area. This area desperately needs state protection from the special interests that would drive development at the county level, where dollars speak much more loudly than anything else. This is one of those times when the onus of planning simply must be taken away from local government for the greater good of the citizens of Oregon.
I urge you in the strongest terms to strip from SB 30 the amendment which turns its original protections into, simply, an invitation to developers. Return the bill to its original form and intent, which protects the Metolius River Basin and lands adjacent from destination resort development.
Yours very sincerely,
Thomas Landis
Camp Sherman, OR
"Dear Ben" - Carole Hancock, Powell Butte
Dear Ben - How very, very sad after all these years it appears the beautiful Metolius River/Camp Sherman area is threatened and in jeopardy of being completely lost and taken over by big money powered developers who seem be on a trek of completely destroying by rezoning peaceful retreats for the soleful purpose of monetary gain, with the promise of monetary allocation to unrestrained and overspending city/county/state government recipients. When is it going to stop?!!
I am a frequent visitor to the Metolius River, for a peaceful place of retreating. Please do all you can to not allow Metolius River/Camp Sherman to become rezoned for any purpose. Let's decide to leave some places completely alone for that purpose and that purpose only - to just plain leave it all alone. The area is available as it stands now to anyone who cares to make reservations for overnight and visit as frequently as possible.
The Metolius River has been unequivically protected by those in Camp Sherman who not only love their privacy and serene beauty of the lifestyle in Camp Sherman, but truly love the river, so affectionately referred to by many of us as the Melodious River. How very sad and threatening this must be to they who have worked so long and hard to safeguard this beautiful wilderness area.
As a child we visited and fished the Metolius River many times. I personally was privileged to live in Camp Sherman for one winter in an established cabin and witnessed wildlife yet to be hindered by big development areas. A whole herd of elk walked the river in the moonlight; deer meandered without fear of man; numerous species of ducks raised their young; bald eagles flew overhead, used dead tree stumps as perches; and the great blue heron fed along the Metolius shores, along with many other species of wildlife too numerous to name. To experience this wildlife, it required my calm respect of the land they own and trust. Cabin owners and friends of the Metolius have maintained river trails for years, protecting for respectful visitors what the Metolius River has represented for years - wilderness, and a place to go and escape without the noise and bustle of overpopulation.
I was born (1941) and raised in Redmond. Sadly watching Redmond change as our little town has been rezoned for huge development, and now living in Powell Butte, where destination resorts have been allowed to manipulate their way into Crook County and this farming community, it is my feeling as with any rezoning, this would be only the beginning of the ruination of the entire natural ecological structure of Camp Sherman Metolius River area, as we again fall under the manipulative power of those who have only personal monetary gain in mind and no thought of safeguarding the future of such areas. How very, very sad.
Carole Hancock
Powell Butte OR
I am a frequent visitor to the Metolius River, for a peaceful place of retreating. Please do all you can to not allow Metolius River/Camp Sherman to become rezoned for any purpose. Let's decide to leave some places completely alone for that purpose and that purpose only - to just plain leave it all alone. The area is available as it stands now to anyone who cares to make reservations for overnight and visit as frequently as possible.
The Metolius River has been unequivically protected by those in Camp Sherman who not only love their privacy and serene beauty of the lifestyle in Camp Sherman, but truly love the river, so affectionately referred to by many of us as the Melodious River. How very sad and threatening this must be to they who have worked so long and hard to safeguard this beautiful wilderness area.
As a child we visited and fished the Metolius River many times. I personally was privileged to live in Camp Sherman for one winter in an established cabin and witnessed wildlife yet to be hindered by big development areas. A whole herd of elk walked the river in the moonlight; deer meandered without fear of man; numerous species of ducks raised their young; bald eagles flew overhead, used dead tree stumps as perches; and the great blue heron fed along the Metolius shores, along with many other species of wildlife too numerous to name. To experience this wildlife, it required my calm respect of the land they own and trust. Cabin owners and friends of the Metolius have maintained river trails for years, protecting for respectful visitors what the Metolius River has represented for years - wilderness, and a place to go and escape without the noise and bustle of overpopulation.
I was born (1941) and raised in Redmond. Sadly watching Redmond change as our little town has been rezoned for huge development, and now living in Powell Butte, where destination resorts have been allowed to manipulate their way into Crook County and this farming community, it is my feeling as with any rezoning, this would be only the beginning of the ruination of the entire natural ecological structure of Camp Sherman Metolius River area, as we again fall under the manipulative power of those who have only personal monetary gain in mind and no thought of safeguarding the future of such areas. How very, very sad.
Carole Hancock
Powell Butte OR
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
I Appreciate What You Are Trying To Do Here - Patrick Buresh, Bend
Hello Senator Westland,
I appreciate what you are trying to do here. Maybe my story can help.
I am partially responsible for the growth in Central Oregon. My wife and I moved here with our son almost 5 years ago. We have since added a daughter and will be picking up our adopted son at the Portland airport on Saturday, May 5. So, I understand the need for development. However, the Metolius Basin is not the appropriate place for this development. It was once considered for National Park status! I would rather see Camp Sherman relocated and the land donated to the Deschutes Basin Land Trust then see more building near the basin. It is more appropriate to quadruple the number of people in the city of Sisters than put those people in a couple new cities near the Metolius River.
Last spring I visited my Grandpa Vetz – my last living grandparent. He was a WWII vet who trained in Camp Abbot (near Sunriver) and loved to fish. His time at Camp Abbot was one of the few things he was able to talk about during that visit. At times he couldn’t remember who I was or how many times we had walked around his apartment. But, he could remember playing in the snow in Central Oregon. I was able to convince my Uncle Rod that Grandpa’s old bamboo fly rod should come home with me. The only place I considered for that rod’s first outing in more than 20 years was the Metolius River. I have attached a picture (MetBowSmall.jpg) of the first fish I caught with the rod – a beautiful wild Metolius rainbow.
Grandpa died in early February. I headed to the Metolius with his old bamboo fly rod the next day. I was not able to make it to the services but a picture (GrandpaTroutSmall.jpg) of me with the only fish I was able to fool on that cold afternoon did.
The rod is now being restored. I hope I get it back in time for the green drake hatch on the Metolius!
Please help focus the development in this beautiful part of the world. We all know it will come but let’s use some common sense.
Sincerely yours,
Patrick Buresh
Bend, OR
I appreciate what you are trying to do here. Maybe my story can help.
I am partially responsible for the growth in Central Oregon. My wife and I moved here with our son almost 5 years ago. We have since added a daughter and will be picking up our adopted son at the Portland airport on Saturday, May 5. So, I understand the need for development. However, the Metolius Basin is not the appropriate place for this development. It was once considered for National Park status! I would rather see Camp Sherman relocated and the land donated to the Deschutes Basin Land Trust then see more building near the basin. It is more appropriate to quadruple the number of people in the city of Sisters than put those people in a couple new cities near the Metolius River.
Last spring I visited my Grandpa Vetz – my last living grandparent. He was a WWII vet who trained in Camp Abbot (near Sunriver) and loved to fish. His time at Camp Abbot was one of the few things he was able to talk about during that visit. At times he couldn’t remember who I was or how many times we had walked around his apartment. But, he could remember playing in the snow in Central Oregon. I was able to convince my Uncle Rod that Grandpa’s old bamboo fly rod should come home with me. The only place I considered for that rod’s first outing in more than 20 years was the Metolius River. I have attached a picture (MetBowSmall.jpg) of the first fish I caught with the rod – a beautiful wild Metolius rainbow.
Grandpa died in early February. I headed to the Metolius with his old bamboo fly rod the next day. I was not able to make it to the services but a picture (GrandpaTroutSmall.jpg) of me with the only fish I was able to fool on that cold afternoon did.
The rod is now being restored. I hope I get it back in time for the green drake hatch on the Metolius!
Please help focus the development in this beautiful part of the world. We all know it will come but let’s use some common sense.
Sincerely yours,
Patrick Buresh
Bend, OR
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Support the Original SB 30 - Liz Rink, Bend
Hello Senator Westlund:
[Sent to all State Senators]
Thank you for your dedication on SB30. I want to encourage the entire Senate to support the ORIGINAL SB30 not the new version. Now is the critical moment to preserve an exquisite unspoiled area of our state. The Metolius River is in danger of pollution, over use, and restriction. After living in Central Oregon for 30 years we have seen some very special places built up, trees torn down, restrictions=ruined. Please ask that the resorts be BANNED in and within a three mile radius of the Metolius River Basin. The amendments have weakened the bill that needs to be strong and clear.
Liz Rink
Bend, OR
[Sent to all State Senators]
Thank you for your dedication on SB30. I want to encourage the entire Senate to support the ORIGINAL SB30 not the new version. Now is the critical moment to preserve an exquisite unspoiled area of our state. The Metolius River is in danger of pollution, over use, and restriction. After living in Central Oregon for 30 years we have seen some very special places built up, trees torn down, restrictions=ruined. Please ask that the resorts be BANNED in and within a three mile radius of the Metolius River Basin. The amendments have weakened the bill that needs to be strong and clear.
Liz Rink
Bend, OR
