The Metolius River is an amazingly special place--yes, it IS a wonder of geology--but for me & my family, it is a place that brought us together, where our hearts connected, & where we shared many summers of magical experiences.

For a few precious weeks, our lives were simplified & adapted to the wilderness we were blessed to be experiencing. We talked to each other. We walked together, spoke of the beauty of the place & of the animals & plants & the amazing water. We felt the power of the Creator in the deliciously clean air.

We learned about respecting the wilderness by practicing the "leave no trace" philosophy. We learned how all the diverse parts of a wilderness contribute to create the whole, that every component--the bugs in the base of a tree, the level of the water in the river, the birds & animals, EVERYTHING is important to making this pristine place what it is. It was our playground, but it was also our classroom.

While at first thought it seems like a beautiful place to live, if you think a little further, you'd realize that it wouldn't be beautiful for long --or, at least, in the way it is now--if developers started cutting down trees to clear sites for homes & diverting water for residents & businesses, it would not be the magical place that it is anymore. Families couldn't come here anymore to bond with each other & learn about the wilderness. It would be reduced to a housing tract for the wealthy.

I pray that the powers that be will see the importance of keeping the Metolius River area just the way it is, for all of us here now and for future generations of families & lovers of the wilderness.

~ Jacqueline Marie

    Fishing, hunting, camping, and backpacking in Oregon's outdoors were at the core of growing up in my family. When I learned of the threats to the Metolius  River posed by multiple resorts and golf courses, with their thirst for water, I reflected on the continuing importance of the Metolius in my family's story, my upbringing, even my well-being.

      My experience with the Metolius began when my aunt and uncle (who lived in Redmond) took us to see a mysterious river where the water level never seemed to change.  We stopped at Camp Sherman for snacks, watched the giant trout that maintained in the current above and below the Camp Sherman Bridge, then traveled to the origin of the Metolius where it emerged all at once, a very considerable east-side river.  That was interesting as a child but it came to mean more to me in later years.

    My next visit came when I was in high school and a friend persuaded three of us to make the Metolius our fly fishing destination one summer.  We camped a mile or two below Camp Sherman, cast Adams and wooly worm patterns to the respectably smart resident trout, and tossed some soggy, overcooked strands of spaghetti to some giant Dolly Varden (bull trout) hanging out below Camp Sherman Bridge, remembering how incredible a trout looks trying to slurp long, unruly strands of pasta!  I trust they survived this brashness of our youth.

    As I neared springtime graduation from college I experienced an illness that the doctors at the infirmary said medicine could do little to help, but that extended rest would be beneficial.  After missing most of my final term, I knew I must strive to complete an aquatic entymology collection in order to graduate in fisheries at the end of fall term.  This took me back to the Metolius, where a richness of aquatic invertebrates abounds.  Working, resting, and reflecting along the banks of this river that springs eternal and beautiful, I was able to begin to turn away from the malaise of illness.

    Many years later, a friend at streamside held my year-old daughter up to see me as I fished above the Allingham Bridge.  I realized that I was introducing him and his family to this wonderous place.  And I remember that my wife and I now hope to rent one of the small cabins on the Metolius for a day or two the summer when that one-year-old graduates from college.

     I offer these memories with a very full heart to encourage our legislators to act to save the Metolius from the thoughtless encroachment and likely degradation that now loom.  The threat to this great place truly deserves a powerful legislative remedy.

~ Steve Miller

I am proud to claim to be a Native Oregonian.  The confines of this  marvelous State are my playground, my home and my church.  I  was born  and raised in S. Oregon and my childhood was spent exploring much of  the state with my family.  In my judgement one of the jewels of this  state is the Metolius River Basin.  As a geologist (I hold a MS in  Geology) I have more than a citizens knowledge of how the Basin was  formed and how it's water source is a delicate balance.  To upset  this balance by allowing over development of it's hydrological  resources would be a travesty.  ODFW has done a marvelous job of showing what can be done if nature is allowed it's way without the  introduction of hatchery trout.  I hope to enjoy the Basin for an  addition 15 years (I would be 90; the same age as my father when he  left this place he loved).  Both my children have settled in the Bend  area and recognize the Basin for the natural wonder it is. 

~ James F. Moore, Jr.  

When I was a child, I remember camping on the Metolius with my family on hunting trips. The river was so beautiful. Its name joins other rivers in Oregon that are unique and remarkable, and part of my life's story. Developments come and go, but rivers should be there for the generations ahead to find the same sense of identity, place and wonder.

I was surprised to find that the Metolius was in danger of being unprotected.

I  live in the community of Metolius in 1997-1998, and I would often venture out to a tranquil area on the Metolius river accessed between Sisters and Redmond. Actually, it was closest to the small community in which I lived, but you had to navigate the reservoir to get to it if you didn't drive all the way around. The access was closed most of the year due to the fragile habitat. It was used most often by fisherman and
sometimes adventurous hunters.

I spent many, many days and several overnights in the spring-fed creek bed. I saw owls, rattlesnakes, bobcat, and eagles as well as vultures and songbirds. The pristine aura of the place remains with me to this day.The stands of Ponderosa Pine are magnificient, and the canyons are gorgeous.

I really would think it that it is more valuable to preserve this place than to allow development. When I remember what was right about my stay in Central Oregon, this place is it.

~ Darcy Schultz Hanita

I feel this river should go untouched because the Metolius river if one of the few that go to Eastern Oregon which farmers need. It also travels through protected forested and interupting that system is inhumane. We are making a thoughtful choice about the outcome of something natural that has been there much longer than us. To manipulate the river is out of the question. Just leave it alone.   We do more than enough to the environment as it is... so now is the perfect time to exercise healthy, thoughtful actions.

~ Star Gabel

The Metolius River and the Metolius basin are indeed a treasure that symbolize the best of what Oregon has to offer - dramatic natural beauty, serenity - which is becoming so hard to come by these days, wildlife, and of course, the River's wild trout.   Though I learned to fly fish on the McKenzie River while living in Eugene, it was the trips to the Metolius that were truly magical and memorable during those early years of learning the passion that helps so much to sustain me.

Now that I live in Bend, the Metolius is the special spot to which we take friends and other visitors to show off what we love about Central Oregon. A well traveled business colleague of mine from Japan will gladly tell you that the Metolius River and Crater Lake are his two favorite place in the world!  That says a lot right there. The same sentiment has been echoed by many others who live or visit the Northwest.

As Central Oregon continues to grow at an almost frighteningly rapid pace, having "a place to come to" that takes you back to earlier, quieter and more peaceful times becomes that much more important.  Development is rampant throughout the region. And yes, there is a lot of open space around here. So, with all this space available, why should we encroach further on one of the true jewels that make Oregon such a special place to live and visit.

Please consider future generations who will have an even harder time finding solitude, unspoiled natural beauty and act to preserve for them this very special place in Oregon and in the hearts of those who treasure it.

~ Rick Rushton

The headwaters of the Metolius are a natural altar where our family stops every time we are in Sisters (a couple of times a year) to give thanks for God’s good gifts: water, beauty, sustenance. We also give thanks for the native people before us who understood their role as stewards of the river.

I can still remember the first time I saw it and was literally knocked backward by the beauty, the strange color and obvious purity of the water. I was a teenager transplanted from California. Where I came from, such natural wonders were replicated in rides at amusement parks. I could hardly believe the pines, granite and especially that Coke-bottle green water were all real! How can one not believe in a benevolent Creator when you see for the first time that we are set down in the midst of the most perfectly formed handiwork. I felt spoiled by it all and the amusement parks seemed like a distant and tinny memory in comparison.

Anyone who has stood by that river for 5 minutes has felt its rare, primordial power. We have a responsibility to cherish and protect this good gift as it has been given. Let us show our thanks and our responsibility by caring for it now. It is older than we are.

~ Laura Engle

The Metolius is an important because of its beauty, because it is an important natural area and the nature of its springs. It is important because it is one of a kind in Oregon. Once we destroy it through development it cannot be reclaimed. Why is it so important for a chosen few to build a large development in this well used and enjoyed  natural area enjoyed by many?

Allan Kays

I actually don't have a story about the Metolius; however, I did tell the legislator to whom I wrote that she should at least see it before deciding about the proposed changes. My first sight of the Metolius was earlier this year and I was stunned by how beautiful it is - the beautiful blue of the water is astonishing, among other attributes. I had resisted going before because of the already existing Black Butte resort in the area, but my husband had to work in the area and so we did a little exploring. We saw it and immediately made plans to return. When I heard that it was threatened I couldn't believe it - it really is one of the places that makes Oregon so special and it can't be replaced when we find we've made a mistake. Take care of our natural resources for our children and grandchildren.

Sandy Stienecker

Once on a float trip of the Metolius, we counted over 100 bald eagles in less than 5 hours.  This is an amazing river, unlike any I have ever seen. It needs to be protected.

Chris Fox

Dear Legislators,
Please save and protect this river...I remember it from my childhood and a family vacation there.  I want to take my 5 year old son there and teach him to fish.  I don't want it too feel like a suburban subdivision.  That would be a crime.  Please save it for future gererations.
Sincerely,
Anne Kari Wortmann

My family has enjoyed the Metolius River for the last 50 years, hiking along it's shoreside paths, innertubing down it's rapids, wading in it's cold waters and just sitting beside it watching the ducks and other wildlife that share it's existence. We have hiked to it's source many times, have studied the wildflowers along the shore and have taken part in fish hatchery activities. We support any efforts to protect it and will fight any efforts to harm it. I have many photos of activities near or in the river and will send them upon request. Thank you.

Karen Haynes 

Any river is important to protect.  Water will be our next GOLD.  It is predicted that in just the next sixteen years, yes that's 16 years over 45% of the world will experience water shortages.

We are blessed in Oregon to have clean water.  Please read the much researched book "Blue Gold"  to understand.  Or listen to Agnes Baker Pilgrim speak about her travels all over the world to find clean water is not available.  So much polution from pesticides and chemicals all over the world.  In the USA over 2 Billion pounds of pesticides are used each year.  Much goes into the waterways.

Think... What can I do to protect this precious resource?.

Also a good read is David Suzuki's  book  " Good News for a Change, How Everyday People are Helping the Planet".   There you'll learn about environmental protection and how people are reversing damage.  However, it often takes many many years to do so.

Why not stop, and protect.  Build homes on hillsides and save farmland and waterways for future generations.
Thanks to all,  Meera

Please let the Metolius River and its surrounding basin remain a marvel for ALL to behold rather than let it be compromised for the benefit and profit of relatively few.    MBE 

This is one of Oregon's priceless places that I have not as yet had an opportunity to enjoy...all the more reason to be a part of the movement to keep development from once again disregarding the value of our wild and beautiful places!  Putting the wealthy patrons of golf courses and high end developments before the importance of just allowing nature to be at it's best the way it was created. It is beyond the time for our legislators to take a firm stand for more long term conservation and
preservation of our pristine environments. It really is ludicrous to think that we and our leaders seem to think that our beautiful, invaluable state won't end up like other states that have let money rule all decisions about the health of the land... I want to see that this state is the one to stop this destructive mindset and move toward an ethical, integral, healthy future for all of it's people, not just the wealthy lobbies that want to buy the right to plunder!  Please consider all your constituent and make choices to keep development out of our wild, pristine places...the Metolius River included!!! Thank you for your consideration
in this matter!     

Sincerely, Stephanie Dryden

Dear Legislators:
 
Each year for the past 35 years I have brought college students to the Metolius basin to teach them what a pristine environment used to be like prior to human intervention.  During those years I have watched continual erosion of the natural areas around the Metolius, even though growth has been thoughtfully planned and efforts have been made to minimize the impact.

As a biologist, I realize what a natural treasure this watershed is and how quickly it can be lost. 
 
Please do what you can to insure that the Metolius will continue to inspire generations to come with its beauty.
 
Thank you,
 
Charles J. Kunert, Ph.D.
Dean, College of Theology, Arts, & Sciences
Professor of Biology
Concordia University

I am a painter and I am in love with the Metolius River. Here is a painting that I did (I have prints and cards of it). The Original Oil on Wood painting is 32 by 80 inches and was recently purchased. I am about to start another large painting of the river. This is a truly magical and inspiring place and should be available to the people of Oregon just like the free beaches on the coast.

I moved to Oregon from Bombay with my family in 1961.  My father was an adventuresome person, and by the mid sixties, we were camping all over Oregon and the Pacific Northwest.  We discovered the Metolius one summer when I was 8 or 9 years old.  I still remember the wonder I felt at seeing its pristine waters emerging from a hillside!  We then traveling to Wizard falls to see the fish hatchery and the spectacular range of blues and greens that were created by the underwater fissures.  In the depths of those waters, I could see large forms of wild high desert trout silhouetted against the complex underwater geologic formations.  I am certain that it was at that moment that trout and clear water and the scent of ponderosa pines became embedded in my mind and heart...this was a place to long for and return to many times throughout my life.  I have shared this sacred place (for it is like a temple or church to me) with friends, my wife, and now with my own children.  I can not imagine the sorrow I would feel to see this most treasured region become "view property" for the wealthy; commercialized and packaged nicely for conspicuous consumption.  I know I am not alone in my reverence for the Metolius.  It must be protected and preserved for later generations to discover its wonders!

Ajit N. Jetmalani , M.D.

Wow, something magical like this river is being threatened, and it is actually acceptable? This is an extremely rare and special river, and part of the volcanic make-up of the area. It is as much of a spectacle and land mark in my opinion as Broken Top, or South Sister..... Losing this would be like ripping out a major organ from a beautiful creature.

Why is the Metolius special to me in its current pristine condition?

Because I have not yet had the opportunity to explore it. As a person who has studied and worked in the field of geology, I understand how major development that draws from an aquifer such as the one that feeds the Metolius can destroy it, the aquifer and the river. This is not opinion but, for those willing to educate themselves, well founded fact.

To risk a river such as this one for the pleasure of a relative few and the profits of even fewer is severe negligence on the parts of those tasked to protect it for us now and those to come after us. We have plenty of destination resorts already….do we really need more? Developers and those poised to profit from the building of them will say "of course we do" while the rest of us with no money to make on the deals will look at the larger picture and say…"not really, and not at such a cost".

Once the river and aquifer are damaged, there is generally no recovery. History speaks loudly on this one.

Please think of others on this matter and protect the Metolius from misuse and potentially disastrous development. The west is NOT water rich, especially in this part of the state.

Sincerely,

Jim Van Osdell

Back in the early 1960s, the first time I saw the Metolius River surging from underground I was wonder-struck.  That sense of wonder has never cease during any of my revisits to the magical place.  The Metolius flowed through beautiful meadows and some of Oregon's most incredible scenery.

My favorite memory of the river was as a backdrop to the wedding of some friends at the House on the Metolius.  The wedding was held outside on the bluff overlooking the river.  The Portland Brass Ensemble was on hand to provide wonderful baroque music.  Then, in the middle of the ceremony, there was a spontaneous "time out" as a mature mule deer buck crossed the golden meadow below to the river for a drink of water before returning to the Ponderosa pine forest.

I hate to think of the Metolius being developed into destination resorts for the wealthy.  Besides the ecological input of sewage making its way from septic tanks or cesspools into the groundwater and then the river, the pollution of increased internal combustion-powered vehicles would have a strong negative impact on the trees and fauna.  This is an area that would far better remain undeveloped and open for enjoyment that does not negatively impact the air and water.  I strongly urge that the applications to build resorts along the Metolius be rejected.

Sincerely,

(Ms.) Meryle A. Korn

What the Metolius River means to me

I first visited the Metolius River when I was eight years old.  This river was where my family spent summer vacation time.  We would stay in a very old cabin (Lake Creek Lodge) and spend summer days and nights along the river.

As a child:

The summer days consisted of hikes along the river, riding my bike two miles to the headwaters and feeding the squirrels as I walked down the short path to see the beautiful river emerge out of the side of a hill into a large green, grassy meadow with a beautiful snowcapped mountain behind it. I would always ask the same question, "How does a river just come out of the hill"?  I would build stick boats out of grass and bark which I would float from one bridge to another while racing down the bank of the river trying to "beat my boat" to the next bridge. I would find Salmon Flies in the bushes along the bank and toss them into the river and watch the large trout jump.  I remember a fisherman explaining what "chumming" meant.  Actually, I think he was grateful to see there were fish in the river, as he hadn't had any luck that day. I took up fishing myself.  Lake Creek Lodge had a pond that was created by Lake Creek and kids were allowed to fish if your fishing pole was made from a long stick.  I caught my very first fish in that pond.  Dusk was the time for evening walks in hopes of spotting deer.  Deer and stars were the glory of dusk.  Why weren't the stars in Portland this big?  Shooting stars meant a wish might come true.  Many wishes were made on Metolius evenings.  Nights were spent reading, playing cards and games.  There were no televisions or phones and no need for them.  This was time for family and friends and usually we were so tired, or so excited for the next days events that bedtime came early and easily.  Who needed outdoor school when summer break was spent learning about ecosystems on a river through every day playing!

As a teenager:

Time at the Metolius was spent riding my bike and floating down the river on an innertube.  The water was freezing, but the excitement of almost not fitting under the Allingham bridge made up for it.  The Camp Sherman store was the perfect place to spend my hard earned babysitting money on candy and popcorn.  Walking along the river as a teenager I learned what it meant to feel peaceful.  I remember always feeling the Metolius was a happy place, full of wonderful memories and I always felt good when I was there.  My parents were no longer married, and the family times were a bit different, but just being on the banks of the river made me feel safe and happy.  It was as a teenager that I decided the large grassy wildflower meadow just before the Allingham Bridge was my meadow.  It was the best place for stargazing, running and identifying wildflowers.  The stars there were huge!

As a college student:

I introduced my college friends to camping at the Metolius.  I was amazed that no one knew about Camp Sherman and this river!  Friends who had grown up in Portland knew about Sun River, the beach, Black Butte, but never the Metolius.  I felt so proud showing them how "my" river came out of the side of a hill!  Everyone loved the area!  "Norman Rockwell" was what came to mind.  I still remember showing one of my friends the post office library and the expression on her face when I explained the "honor" system of taking books home to read.  "You just help yourself to a book or magazine and then bring it back or bring another one for someone else to read".  I remember as a child getting the Highlights magazine from the Camp Sherman Post Office library.  Just like at the issues at the doctors office, all of the hidden puzzles had been completed by someone else. 

Camping on the Metolius was fantastic! We would camp in the "hike in" area (our car was only a few hundred feet away) and we felt like we were in the middle of nowhere! For the first time, I felt like a grown up!  It was so beautiful! The Metolius was untouched by human hands, and was magically and completely uninterrupted! I was very protective over the campsite.  I was meticulous about making sure the campfire was completely out, I would triple check to make sure we hadn't left any indication of ever being there.  I took pride in "my river" and wanted it to be as it always was - untouched by human hands.   I knew what a special place it was and that I should leave it in better condition than when I arrived.  We spent many wonderful college breaks camping on the Metolius!  What happened on the Metolius will stay on the Metolius.

As an adult:

I realize what my experience on this river has given me and how it has affected who I am as an adult.  I reflect on how blessed I am to have spent my childhood on a wild and scenic river. I have an inner peace, which is to this day, is ignited by the spiritual and pristine banks of the Metolius River.  I am able to show young children how to spend summer days without television or video games and learn they crave the same experience of learning about nature and using nature as a playground that I did. I appreciate and love to be able to escape to an area where there isn't crime, billboards, television, traffic, noise and stress.  I am able to know what a peaceful place is and as an adult, work as hard as I can to get time away from the grind of adulthood to go back to the river for a piece of it.  I am able to realize how sacred and special places like the Metolius River are and that as an adult it is my duty to protect and save these treasures for future generations.  I know now what an incredible and generous gift the land around the headwaters donated by the Johnson family is!  Private land not only donated for the public to use and enjoy, but also specifically designed so that people with disabilities would be able to get down the path to see the beautiful river emerge from the side of a hill! This alone speaks of the passion one feels when one is touched by this beautiful place - you just want to share it with everyone in its current and untouched, pristine and magical state!  No one can explain to me how beautiful, natural landscapes have come to be. However, I do know how they make us feel when we experience them. There is a price to pay for this type of beauty and that price is managed and restricted use and full protection.  The Metolius River Recreation Area has and always will be available to visit, but it is home to our fish and wildlife and we (humans) are visitors.  To allow "humans" to call this area home will destroy exactly what has drawn us to this special area to begin with.  As an adult, I have a voice.  I work hard, live my life responsibly and accountably and have earned my voice.  Much like a child, nature has no voice.  It is up to adults to speak up and be the voice for nature and children.   I hope I may thank the banks of the Metolius for making me the adult I am by speaking for the river in demanding its protection!

Support Senate Bill 30 as passed by the Senate with no amendments!

Kathy Krause
Portland, Oregon

For decades my high school pals have rendezvoused on the Metolious to compare and contrast our life journeys, This river has become the one thing that hasn't changed in our lives. It is our "home base" in a lifelong game of tag. One of cousins even named her first born "Metolious."

Please preserve the pristine Metolious and it's surrounding areas. There are plenty of other areas in Central Oregon that can be developed instead.

- Rhys Thomas

For many years the Metolius was a favorite stop for our family.  We always took a picnic lunch.  The water was clear and cold.  It was a beautiful setting. We would tell the children aboout attempts to find out the source of this clear water.  It is a wonder to be kept for future generations to visit and ponder.  How terrible it would be to oneday find it developed, no longer the way nature has kept it for untold centuries.    Marilyn Neill Newton 

A day at the Metolius is a day of simple pleasures.  I wake up early to the birds chirping and the sound of the rippling water.  It is a beautiful morning of cool, crisp air and wonderful sunshine!

A walk along the river awakens my senses.  I can smell the clean air, the pine, incense cedar and Douglas fir trees.  I watch the sun dance off the crystal clear waters.  I wave to the fly-fishermen who wade right into the cold water, and catch and release year-round. Are they using the stone flies for bait that my daughter loves to catch and feed the fish?  I continue along the river path past the historic cabins, each one charming and unique.  One cabin has crystal glassware sitting on a tree stump.  Soon the sun will turn it a beautiful shade of lavender.  Another cabins' deck is ready for lunch.  The table is covered with a vintage kitchen tablecloth and an ironstone pitcher holds wildflowers.  Already, people are laughing and squealing as they float down the river, oblivious to the coldness of the water.  I pass several water wheels that no longer function, wondering what stories they could tell.  I pass wildflowers, squirrel and deer along the way.  People are walking their dogs and it is hard to tell who enjoys it the most.  I arrive at the Camp Sherman Store and decide to linger with a latte on the bench outside the store.

The Camp Sherman store along with the post office and "honor" library are in one long, wooden building located a few steps from the river, shaded by pine trees.  The store is a deli, a grocery store, a hardware store, a wine store, a gift store and also has supplies and expertise for the fisherman.  People come and go all day - a hub of activity.  My daughters and their friends, as youngsters, loved to stop there for treats.  Now it is for a latte and newspaper.  The store is the place to be on Independence Day for the Camp Sherman Independence Day barbeque and music festivities.  The library (located in the post office) has books and magazines for the taking -"on your honor" you will return when read.  The store pay phone comes in handy as cell phone service leaves much to be desired, which I consider a blessing!  I watch the children on the bridge in front of the store feed the fish below and the chipmunks nearby.  I wonder if they will make boats from sticks and bark, as my daughters did, and race them down the river.  Or if they will learn to fish on the Metolius as my younger daughter did.  Do they know about the Osprey that dive into the river to catch fish?

I continue on toward the Head of the Metolius.  I remember how my oldest daughter was fascinated with the water bubbling up from under the ground.  I stop near the Johnson family property and quietly thank the family for their part in protecting this special place.  I think about a memorial service for a good friend that was on the Johnson property and remember his hard work through the years to save and preserve the Metolius for future generations.

I head back for lunch and think about the afternoon ahead.  It is starting to get warm.  Maybe I will just hang out at the rivers edge with my feet in the water, camera in hand and a good book.  A nap is not out of the question!  I could go for a bike ride, visit the Wizard Fall Fish Hatchery, hike one of many trails, or just do nothing which is always allowed at the Metolius!

After dinner it's time for good conversation, board games, or a good book - and maybe some popcorn or hot chocolate.  It's also a good time to watch for deer.  No need for television, DVDs', computers and computer games - they are not missed by young or old.  Before bedtime, a quick walk to "the meadow" to see the brightest stars in the darkest sky I know.  If we're lucky we may see a few shooting stars and make a wish for the Metolius River to always be pristine and protected for future generations.

The night is crisp and cold and the warm covers feel good,  I am so thankful for this beautiful place that makes me complete and restored, where life is simple and we are reminded of what is truly important.  This is the place where we reconnect with family, friends and nature.  I fall asleep to the sound of the river remembering that we are the stewards of the Metolius River Basin.  We must be the voice of the river and hear its' cry to preserve this pristine, clean and unique habitat for fish and wildlife. We are the guests and we should be able to visit as long as we tread lightly and respect the land.  This fragile Crown Jewel of Oregon needs to be managed carefully.  It needs full protection from growth and development.  There is a price to pay for beautiful places.  We need to step up to the plate and preserve the Metolius River Basin before it is too late.  Once destroyed and gone, it can never be replaced.

P. Krause

Portland, OR.

I don't think my experiences on/in/near the metolius, are the least bit important.  IT'S A RIVER AND WE DON'T HAVE RIVERS TO SPARE.  We shouldn't have to justify keeping or saving a river, with nostalgia or emotional attachments.  It is our duty as members of the human race and animal kingdom, to protect the Earth as it was given to us.
-- Jane

I have never fished the Metolius River, but have seen some of the trout taken from this majestic clear water river, high in the Oregon Cascades. I would hate to see such a river be depleted and ignored by our legislature, for many future generations of children and adults seem to thrive on its beauty and serene, quiet place to enjoy Oregon's great out doors.  Please preserve our high mountain river for generations to come.

Leslie Spence

To whom it may concern,

I have lived in Oregon for most of my life and Central Oregon for the last few years.  The Metolius river and the surrounding area is a very special place for me.  I have done extensive hiking, bird-watching, mushroom picking and just plain old hanging out in the area around the Metolius and it would be a tragedy if the area was developed.  There must be protection for this amazing natural wonder.  It cannot be exploited.  I urge you to re-think the development proposed in this pristine environment and think about future generations that will not be able to enjoy this amazing area to the extent that I and so many others have.  Please protect it.  I'm literally begging you, and I'm far from alone on this. Thank you,

Ian MacKay
Senior at Oregon State University
Fisheries and Wildlife

To whom it may concern,

As far as I am concerned, Metolius River ranks right up there with the seven wonders of the world.  It has been my favorite place in Oregon to fish and to enjoy its magical beauty.  I only hope it stays that way, so my grand children can see it as I have. 

Terry Peasley

My wife and I spent a week this past May in the Metolius Basin.  It is one of the most beautiful and amazing places I have ever visited.  It was early spring and the millions of native wild flowers were just coming into bloom.  We spitted both Male and Female Mergansers rocketing up and down the amazing river

My wife and I hiked 13 miles mostly along the river.  The only departure was one we forced to make at a point where private landowners have apparently refused to grant an easement and through barbwire force visitors to go around their property.  I fear more and more of this amazing hike will become inaccessible and that would be a tragedy.

The Metolius is extremely sensitive and even the small cabin        resorts that have been in the region for nearly a century have had a negative impact on the river and fish runs.  We witnessed first hand the noble efforts property owners putting forth to remedy some of the damage done.

I am a casual golfer, and I noticed what appears to be a very nice course a few miles from Camp Sherman.  I also know there are many golf courses in the Bend and Sisters area.  Even without the environmental impact, as a golfer, I can see NO REASON or NEED to add additional golf courses anywhere in or around the Metolius Basin.  In addition, any type of Mega-Resort would be out of place an inappropriate for the area.  One of the reason people visit Bend is the proximity to relatively undeveloped nature.

I urge Oregon to leave well enough alone in the Metolius Basin.  The beauty, serenity and spirituality of this place are priceless.  PRICELESS.  To the math geniuses in the government – priceless is infinitely more than any amount you will line your pockets with and infinitely more than any revenue the state will see from land sales, taxes, growth to the economy etc.  The Metolius Rivers is a wonder of the world.  I hope the wonder for future generations is not to wonder why the people of past destroyed such a magical place.

Please Save the Metolius,

CJ Cox

I havn't been to that part of the state for years. When I was a teenager I went camping there often. Camp  Sherman?  It is a majestic area. I will always remember looking at the head of a river. How many other places can you see that. I was born and raised in this state ,4th generation. I'ave seen alot of development take place in areas I never thought I'd see happen. To develope this area would be crime. I guess I better hurry up and take my grandkids to see.

Kathy Jones

Hillsboro,OR

The Metolious River is a state treasure and should be protected for all Oregonians, not developed for the few. Protect the crystal clear waters from over development. Thank you.

Margaret Strong

I grew up in Bend and loved the many beautiful areas in Central Oregon.  My parents were early pioneers of the area having arrived in 1903 and 1909 respectively.  My father hunted and fished and  cared for and loved all outdoors.  He was especially fond of the Metolius and Suttle Lake area and we took many a trip around all of Central Oregon.  The Metolius River is a real phenomenon of Nature -- hopefully the powers that be will recognize this and help us preserve it.

 

Jackie Fretwell, Salem, Oregon

My memories are not unlike those of others who have experienced the epiphany of the Metolius River.  Grandchildren, fellow hikers, church groups, visiting friends - all have picnicked and hiked  the unique and beautiful Metolius.  Walking along the river trail restores peace to minds distracted by modern living.  To suggest bringing in traffic and the cacophony of  development is heartbreaking. 

- Janet Whitney

Two of my most memorable hikes for the Obsidian Hiking Club have taken place along the Metolius  River. I didn't bring a camera on either occasion, but both are engraved in my memory. On the first, we were ending the hike at the campsite near the source, and happened upon a whole family of ducks, crossing the swiftly moving river. We sat and marveled at the skill of those duck parents, herding and clucking at their young to keep them from being caught by the current and dragged downstream. It was a whole lesson in wildlife parenting. Where else but the Metolius?

Anne Dhu McLucas,

Member, Obsidian Hiking Club

Eugene, Oregon

My family and I have been camping and fishing at Metolius River for many years.  The area is very special as anyone who has visited knows.  The population of Central Oregon is growing and keeping the Metolius as natural as possible should be a goal for all.  Please do not allow any more resorts in this area.  It would ruin what is an Oregon treasure. 

Bob Percy and family.

It is not only the beauty of the Metolius River that makes it a special place that  needs to be protected but also its uniqueness  as a habitat for the aquatic biota. It is a large, spring-fed river  with cold water at all times of the year.  Along with this, there is a relatively constant flow rate  throughout  the year.  Development that potentially  affects the hydrology  of the area  and that may affect the water chemistry  would  have irreversible  effects  on  populations of aquatic insects and fish.
N.H. Anderson, PhD.
Zoology Dept., OSU
Corvallis  OR

I cannot share a personal story about the Metolius but I believe rivers are sacred territories and it is out responsibility to watch over them and protect them from any harm that could fall on them.  It is soimportant to have parts of our state undisturbed by the taxing wear that human communities stress them with.  We need our rivers as places to come to when we wear down- places to uplift our souls when we are sick with wear and tear of the cities- places that allow our fish to breed and replete themselves.  We do not need additional recreation areas that wear the land down.  Lets take care of what we have entrusted to us.

Andrea Drinard

Dear People,

The Metolius River, and the Valley is resides in, are clearly my wife Alisa and my favorite place on earth.  We do not say this lightly, as between us, we have visited all 50 states, 5 continents and over 20 countries.  We first visited the Metolius River in 1996, when I brought Alisa out from Chicago, our home a the time, for the rodeo in Sisters.  We made a day trip to the river after the rodeo concluded, and we fell in love with the river and valley it sits in.  We returned to spend a week vacationing on the river 5 of the following 8 years after our initial visit.  We moved to Portland, OR in 2004, and we have spent each Thanksgiving and Easter Holiday on the Metolius.  We have also enjoyed a couple of our birthdays on the river with our friends, and they too love this beautiful Oregon gem.  We have become avid flyfishermen, and their is no river like it in the continential USA.  Spring fed at it head, and loving refreshed by smaller streams until it flows into Lake Billy Chinook, it is an unmatched jewel.  The river is the only home to Dolly Vardon (Bull Trout) below 10,000 feet in the lower 48 states that we are aware of.  This fact alone should be enough to deter development.  The area offers excellent camping, hiking, and river floating.  It is open to all people year-round with plenty of room today for everyone who wants to use it.  

Best regards,

Martin Owens

Dear Legislators,

I am writing on behalf of the Lower Columbia Canoe Club, a paddling and conservation minded group of over 250 families in the Northwest, about the proposed wood placement.  I have been canoeing and kayaking the Metolius River since 1990.  There is a long standing, well established use of the Metolius as a whitewater recreational resource.  I am afraid these plans will to build a resort will negatively impact the wild character of the river and diminish our recreational experiences.  We do not want to see this beautiful river corridor squandered for a handsome profit to real estate developers.   Let the people of the northwest continue to all have equal access to this treasured area.

Sincerely,

Russ Pascoe
Conservation Chair Lower Columbia Canoe Club

My husband and I love going up to the Metolius and the surrounding area every year. Our daughter is now five, and it has become one of her favorite places as well. It is beautiful, peaceful, truly God's creation and glory there. One of our favorite things to do is go to the head of the Metolius and feed the chipmunks (our daugther tries her darndest to bring one home), and see where this beautiful unique river starts. I have several wonderful photos of the mountain in the background surrounded by the trees. It is a beautiful place. To have it destroyed by some one just looking at their bottom line would be horrible. With this kind of development, the only people who would be able to enjoy this beauty would be the people who are paying lots of money for a home there. They would also be the ones destroying it. That is not quite right. God makes his creations for everyone to enjoy, not just those few that have big pocketbooks. The whole area around Sisters is one of the few truly wild places left in Oregon. It should be allowed to stay that way. Just cause you see a nice piece of land does not mean you have to build on it. It is okay to leave it for others to enjoy.

The Metolius is one of my family's favorite places. My mother and step-father rent a cabin there just about every year. My brother and his family live in Prineville, not too far away. My sister, who lives in Portland, likes to go there with her family. It is one of those places that you look forward to going to every year, even though you have been there lots of times before. It never gets too old. To destroy it with resorts and golf courses would be a crime. I hope and pray that your efforts to keep this area just the way it is will be successful. You have our vote.


God Bless!!!!

Julia Fraser

I love the Metolius river. It's the only place I've seen a bald eagle with my own eyes, while camping in 1999. Please do whatever you can to preserve this shining example of Oregon's natural beauty.

David Emrich
registered voter, Jackson county, Ashland, Oregon

I am a biology instructor for the University of Oregon at their branch campus in Bend.  I teach a two week course every summer in ecological restoration.  We are based at the Metolius Preserve, on Lake Creek, a few miles upstream of where Lake Creek enters the Metolius River.  In two years, we have attracted students from the University of Oregon, University of Washington, UC Berkeley, UC Davis, Humboldt State, UCLA, and OSU Cascades.  We can draw students from throughout the west because of the beautiful environment and unique opportunities to study ecological restoration in the Metolius Basin.  Ecological restoration is a step toward reversing some of the past mistakes people have made in managing natural areas.  Please continue this positive trend by banning resort destinations in the Metolius Basin.

Attached is a picture from last summer, when my course met up with a U of O water policy course for dinner one night at a Metolius River campground.

Matt Orr
Univ. of Oregon

One of the highlights of the year for my family and I is a visit to the beautiful Metolius, whether for a day trip or a longer stay, it has long provided a gronding point for us. My children learned to appreciate the wonders around them -- without TV, radio, etc. The simple pleasure of walking along the river, seeing the fish, chipmunks, ground squirrels, deer, geese, coyote, as well as the abundance of wildflowers and plant life. The magical way the river appears out of the butte and gathers more of itself from lush bubbling springs in its short rush to Lake Billie Chinook.  Each time we go, we meet folks from all over the United States and many foreign countries who have come to see this unique wild area. And we recommend it as a "must see and appreciate" spot to friends.  Please vote to keep it that way, free of the spiffy, spendy resorts.  The Metolius should not be a casualty of the bottom line but rather stand as a touchstone to the serenity and natural places we need to preserve for the future. 

The Metolius River takes your breath away.  We often frequent it and the thought of massive development in that area breaks our hearts.

The Legislature should realize that places like this make Oregon magical and special.

Developers should realize that once this pristine river is trashed, all they have left is just another golf course.

Thanks for your effort Environment Oregon.

Kevin, Yasuyo & Dingo
Lake Oswego, OR

 

This is a beautiful river, with beautiful surroundings.  Something to be protected so it can remain so.  

Thank You,

Terrall