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
Washington House Votes to Defund the Columbia River Gorge Commission
April 3, 2025
The Washington House has voted to defund Columbia River Gorge Commission, threatening decades of conservation. Lawmakers must act by April 27 to restore funding.
Behind the Scenes of "The Wildflower Woman" Short Film
December 19, 2024
From Friends of the Columbia Gorge, “The Wildflower Woman” short film profiles renowned Columbia Gorge conservation icon and Lyle, Washington, resident Barbara Robinson.
Slow & Steady: Turtles Win Out Over Logging, Mining at Alashík Preserve
December 19, 2024
Alashík Preserve is Friends’ latest acquisition through our Share the Wonder campaign. Learn more about this forested wetland property that is home to endangered Northwestern pond turtles.
What if the National Scenic Area Never Existed?
December 19, 2024
The Columbia Gorge would be a very different place without the protections of the National Scenic Area. Here, AI image generation shows us what the Gorge could have looked like.
A New Era of Conservation for Friends of the Columbia Gorge
December 17, 2024
For more than 15 years, Reneé Tkach has anchored our recreation & advocacy work across the Gorge. Now as conservation director, she has a brand new vision for our conservation program going forward.
Bringing Art to Youth Education Programs
December 16, 2024
This year’s Great Gorge Wahoo incorporated history, geology, wildlife watching, a raptor program and scavenger hunt at the Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum, and something brand new: art.
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.