Help Protect Oregon's Last Wild Forests

In 2005, the Bush administration overturned the popular 2001 Roadless Area Conservation Rule, opening up many of America's last unspoiled wild areas to logging, mining, and other development. In Oregon, nearly 2 million acres are on the chopping block. In place of the 2001 rule, Bush enacted a policy that requires governors to petition the Forest Service in order to have roadless areas in their state protected.

Governor Ted Kulongoski is moving ahead with plans to file a petition to protect Oregon's roadless wild lands. He will be holding three public forums in August to help guide his petition — and he wants to hear from you!

TAKE ACTION: Please help defend Oregon's remaining roadless wild lands by attending one of Governor Kulongoski's forums and by submitting a comment to the Governor in favor of roadless protection!

To pledge your support, send the letter below to Governor Kulongoski. We also encourage you to add your own personal comments. Please send your letter now, as September 8th will be the last day to submit your comments.

Sample Letter for Campaign

Subject: Protect Roadless Areas in Oregon

Dear [ Decision Maker ] ,

I'm writing to ask you to petition the Forest Service for complete protection of nearly 2 million acres of Oregon's remaining roadless areas. As you know, the Bush administration's new roadless policy, which eliminated protection for roadless areas nationwide, requires governors to act in order for these national forest lands to receive protection from harmful development activities. These pristine areas provide amazing recreational opportunities as well as natural habitat for rare plant and animal species.

Our last wild forests are important parts of our natural heritage and future generations of Oregonians depend on us to leave a legacy of conservation. Please petition for full protection of all of our roadless national forests.

Thank you for considering my comments.

Sincerely,

Campaign Launched:
August 10, 2006

Background Information

Last year, the Bush Administration repealed the Roadless Area Conservation Rule which would have protected the last remaining wilderness areas in Oregon. Governor Kulongoski now has the power to protect nearly 2 million acres of roadless areas in Oregon national forests by petitioning the U.S. Forest Service to prevent logging and development in these untouched forests.

Protecting roadless forest lands safeguards our National Forests and preserves our clean drinking water, recreational opportunities, such as hiking, fishing, and hunting; and Oregon's quality of life. In addition, protecting these wild areas will ensure that our future generations will also be able to enjoy these cherished wild lands.