American bullfrog in pond weed. Photo by Peter Ziminski.
Invasive Predator: Inside the Race to Control the Deadliest Threat to Gorge Turtles
January 5, 2026
Friends of the Columbia Gorge is working with the U.S. Forest Service and Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife to control invasive bullfrogs across shared landscapes. Through coordinated, cross-boundary stewardship, partners have removed thousands of bullfrogs to protect the endangered Northwestern pond turtle.
Northwestern pond turtle basking on a log. Photo by Griffin Gillespie.
Native Prey: Inside a 30-Year Conservation Partnership to Save a Species
January 5, 2026
At Friends’ Turtle Haven and Alashík preserves, biologists and conservation partners are working behind the scenes to recover the endangered Northwestern pond turtle. From habitat restoration to bullfrog control and decades-long collaboration, this story traces how persistence, science, and partnership are helping a resilient species make a comeback in the Gorge.
Hikers on Dog Mountain. Photo by Laura Kneedler.
Defending the Gorge in a Time of Unprecedented Threats
January 5, 2026
Protecting the Gorge means defending the laws, funding, and public lands that make climate resilience possible. This article outlines Friends’ recent advocacy victories—from restoring Gorge Commission funding to stopping a massive federal lands selloff and defending the Land and Water Conservation Fund—and explains why sustained policy engagement is essential for the Gorge’s future.
Dalles Mountain Ranch. Photo by Justin Bernal.
Reaching New Audiences Through Digital Creator Partnerships
January 5, 2026
by Monique Trevett, Digital Content Producer “Thanks for the update. Eek for using an influencer.” A long-time follower of Friends’ Instagram wrote the comment above on a video collaboration we […]
Heartleaf Bluffs. Photo by Paloma Ayala.
Celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Friends’ Land Trust
October 10, 2025
This fall marks the 20th anniversary of Friends of the Columbia Gorge Land Trust—a bold idea that transformed advocacy into lasting stewardship. Since 2004, the land trust has protected over 1,700 acres across 19 preserves, from beloved hiking destinations to vital wildlife habitat, ensuring the Gorge’s landscapes endure for generations to come.
2025 Legislative Sessions: Wins and Challenges in Oregon and Washington
October 5, 2025
During Oregon and Washington’s 2025 legislative sessions, Friends of the Columbia Gorge secured key wins for recreation access, landowner liability protections, and the Columbia River Gorge Commission’s funding. While not every proposal advanced, the sessions brought significant progress toward stronger conservation, climate, and community policies protecting the Gorge.
Wildflowers at Mosier Plateau. Photo by Cate Hotchkiss.
Small Trail, Big Legacy: Povey Family Donates Easement at Mosier Plateau
September 30, 2025
A new permanent easement now secures the beloved trail linking Mosier’s Pocket Park to the Mosier Plateau Preserve, thanks to the generosity of the Povey family. Years in the making, this project highlights the power of community partnerships in preserving recreation access and protecting the Gorge’s natural beauty.
Dog Mountain Wildflowers. Photo by John Williams.
Friends Defends the Future of Public Lands Through Land and Water Conservation Fund Advocacy
September 25, 2025
The Land and Water Conservation Fund has protected iconic Gorge lands for decades without taxpayer dollars. A new order from the Department of the Interior threatens that progress by restricting acquisitions and partnerships, implementing local vetoes, and facilitating future land sell-offs.
A Season of Discovery: Middle School Adventures in the Columbia Gorge
September 19, 2025
Each spring, Friends of the Columbia Gorge connects students with the wonders of the Gorge through hands-on outdoor learning. This year’s programs brought eighth graders from St. Andrew Nativity School and more than 200 sixth graders from Washougal schools into the Gorge to explore its wildlife, geology, and history.
Fire personnel work to contain the Rowena Fire in June 2025. Photo courtesy of Wasco County.
United Way of the Columbia Gorge, Friends of the Columbia Gorge Partner to Raise Funds for Rowena and Burdoin Fire Recovery
September 16, 2025
Friends of the Columbia Gorge has partnered with United Way of the Columbia Gorge on a fundraising effort supporting families impacted by the devastating Rowena and Burdoin Fires. With 100% of donations going directly to relief, this partnership will provide long-term recovery support to affected residents in Oregon and Washington.
Funding from LWCF helped ensure the protection of Catherine Creek. Photo by Robby Miller.
Trump’s Budget Aims to Pillage Conservation Funds
June 5, 2025
The Trump administration’s FY26 budget proposes redirecting roughly $387 million from the Land and Water Conservation Fund’s (LWCF) federal land acquisition budget to fund “deferred maintenance”—that is, repairs to trails, […]
Friends Announces Winners of 2025 Photo Contest
May 25, 2025
Friends of the Columbia Gorge is proud to announce the winners of our 2025 photo contest, "Lenscape: Through Nature's Eyes," including grand prize winner Paloma Ayala.