In an effort to highlight the importance of Wilderness areas across the country, the best of which are of course in Oregon, President Barack Obama has proclaimed September as National Wilderness month.  The timing is excellent. Congress is going back to work after their August recess and one of the measures before them is a national package of conservation bills, including Wilderness protections for places in Oregon. While there are a number of details yet to be worked out, September could be an historic month for Wilderness protection nationally and in Oregon.

In President Obama's words:

"This month, we renew our pledge to build upon the legacy of our forebears.  Together, we must ensure that future generations can experience the tranquility and grandeur of America's natural places.  As we resolve to meet this responsibility, let us also reflect on the ways in which our lives have been enriched by the gift of the American wilderness."

Full text here.

We are currently working hard on the details of the proposed Wilderness protections before Congress. With the support of Oregon's congressional delegation we could see protections for the Devil's Staircase Wilderness, Molalla Wild and Scenic River, Oregon Caves Monument expansion, as well as Cathedral Rock and Horse Heaven Wilderness areas.  It's up to Senator Wyden and Congressman DeFazio to ensure that the treasured Wild Rogue is also included in that list.