Friends of the Columbia Gorge Newsroom
Keeping the Columbia Gorge wild and wondrous is the core of what we do. Friends of the Columbia Gorge is the only conservation organization dedicated solely to protecting the scenic, natural, cultural, and recreational resources of the Columbia Gorge for generations to come. For almost 40 years we have worked to protect the Columbia Gorge from irresponsible development, preserve vital lands, promote responsible stewardship, strengthen public support for conservation initiatives, and expose local youth to the Gorge's wonders. Learn more: gorgefriends.org/about
Connect With Us
For media questions, speaking requests, or public education partnership inquiries please contact: Tim Dobyns, communications & engagement director | 971.634.0595 | tim@gorgefriends.org (email)
Keep Updated
Newsroom
Controversial Whistling Ridge Wind Project Ends After 22 Years
September 9, 2024 - By Nathan Baker
After 22 years of legal battles, the Whistling Ridge Energy Project in the Columbia River Gorge was officially terminated, protecting the scenic landscape and endangered species from harm.
Friends Enjoys Legal Victories in Clark County
September 8, 2024 - By Nathan Baker
Friends earned two major legal victories in Clark County to maintain private ownership of a proposed mining haul road and to preserve farmland.
Trail Tales: New Signage Elevates Hiker Experience at Friends’ Lyle Cherry Orchard
September 7, 2024
Friends is proud to introduce new state-of-the-art trail signage—the first on a Friends preserve—that makes Lyle Cherry Orchard one of the most interactive trails in the Pacific Northwest.
Bringing Local Middle Schoolers to the Gorge: Spring & Summer Youth Education Recap
September 6, 2024
Friends hosted three major youth education programs this spring and summer with students from Portland and Washougal, Washington.
Introducing Caminemos Juntos, an Outdoor Initiative for the Gorge Latino Community
September 4, 2024
Caminemos Juntos (Spanish for “Let’s Walk Together”) is a program that connects the Latino community in the Gorge with nature.
From Gorge to Gate: Friends Member Designs "Terra Cascadia" at PDX Airport
August 20, 2024
Longtime Friends member Brad Johnson's deep connection to the Columbia Gorge has led to the creation of “Terra Cascadia,” a magnificent new animated LED art installation at the PDX Airport.
Clark County Council Rejects Illegal Miners' Proposal to Municipalize Private Road
July 18, 2024
The Clark County Council has voted unanimously to deny Zimmerly and Nutter's proposal to turn a public road into a private mining haul route.
Conserved Lands Do Not Impede Housing Development
June 20, 2024
In a letter to the editor in Columbia Gorge News, Friends refutes Wasco County Planning Director’s attack on conservation land ownership.
Portland Schoolteacher Wins Grand Prize in Columbia Gorge Photo Contest
June 18, 2024
Dave Edwards Noyes' winning image captures sunlit Oregon white oak trees at Mosier Plateau Trail.
301 Gallery and Friends of the Columbia Gorge Present “INSPIRED!” Art Exhibition
May 7, 2024
301 Gallery and Friends of the Columbia Gorge announce an art exhibition titled “INSPIRED!,” a showcase of conserved lands in the Columbia River Gorge. 10% of proceeds benefit Friends.
Heartleaf Bluffs: A Gem Hiding in Plain Sight
April 12, 2024
Latest News
Heartleaf Bluffs, a stunning 105-acre cliffside property just west of the Klickitat River near Lyle, Washington, is the jewel of Share the Wonder.
Building Climate Resilience through Habitat Restoration
April 11, 2024
In 2020, Friends acquired preserves at Cape Horn and Catherine Creek. Each holds opportunities for habitat restoration and accessible recreation through Share the Wonder.