FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Business Owners Applaud Bill to Protect Wild Rogue

Legislation vitally important for local economy

Conservationists and local businesses cheer Senator Wyden and Senator Merkley for pushing expansion of Rogue Wilderness protections.

The pristine Wild Rogue canyon (photo by Dang Ngo).

Contact:
Beverly Moore, Riverhouse Camp Lodge, 541-472-1052
Dave Strahan, 541-476-4690

The Wild Rogue Alliance cheered Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today for introducing legislation to permanently protect portions of the Rogue River and its surrounding forests. The "Rogue Wilderness Area Expansion Act of 2011" will preserve an economic engine in southwest Oregon that supports local jobs, clean water, wildlife habitat, and recreation and fishing opportunities.

The legislation designates approximately 60,000 acres of Wilderness and 93 miles of Wild and Scenic Rivers along the Rogue River. Reps. DeFazio, Schrader and Blumenauer introduced similar legislation in the House of Representatives in November. The legislation is based on a compromise agreement with the American Forest Resource Council and conservation organizations.

Internationally known for world-class fishing, hiking and rafting, the Rogue contributes immensely to local job creation in southern Oregon. Surrounding communities rely on the recreation and tourism industries, with the ripple effect of river recreation alone generating $30 million annually and providing 445 jobs.

"Since the old days of Zane Grey fishing on the river in the 1920's, people have traveled from all over the world to enjoy the Rogue River. This designation will help insure that more people and more money come to our county in the future," said Beverly Moore, owner of Riverhouse Camp Lodge.

The Rogue provides habitat for enormous salmon runs that need the fresh, clean water for spawning, rearing and migration. These salmon are the backbone of the local sport and commercial fishing industries, which also provide millions annually to the local community.

"Not only does this help salmon, but this legislation is imperative to the outdoor recreation economy of southern Oregon. Myself and others appreciate that this legislation will protect our future recreation economy," said Dave Strahan, a life-long local resident and outdoor recreation sales professional.

For over three years the Oregon congressional delegation has worked with local business owners, conservationists, timber organizations, fisherman, rafters and community members to craft a common sense proposal for protection of the Rogue River canyon. An alliance of businesses who see the protection of the Rogue as an investment in the local economy have been working with river conservation organizations to advance legislation. There are over 100 local and regional businesses and organizations endorsing the campaign.

The Wild Rogue Alliance is a coalition of businesses and organizations working to obtain permanent protection for the Rogue River and its surrounding area.

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