Oregon Public Broadcasting

More rivers are designated “wild and scenic” in Oregon than any other state in the nation.  Conservationists say that title is more than just window dressing.

They released a report Thursday claiming it’s also a big money-maker. Correspondent Chris Lehman reports.

One of the best known wild and scenic rivers in Oregon is the Rogue. Conservation groups want to expand federal protection to 140 miles of the Rogue’s tributaries.  

A new push in Congress comes at a time when several timber sales are being planned in the region.

But Joseph Vaile of the group KS Wild says activities like fishing and rafting pump more money into the area than logging.

Joseph Vaile:  “If you have a timber sale it’s like a one-time shot in the arm, whereas this is the type of economic impact that is sustainable and will continue to provide for these businesses for generations to come.”

The new report by ECONorthwest says recreation on the Rogue pumped $14 million into the southern Oregon economy last year.  A separate effort is underway in Congress to extend wilderness protection to areas around Mount Hood, and to the high desert east of Bend.

Online:

National Wild and Scenic Rivers System