For Friends’ outdoor programs, which includes our beloved hike program, the pandemic pause gave us time to reflect and analyze our past offerings.
While the dams are far upstream of the Gorge, dwindling Gorge salmon runs, tribal significance and recreation benefits led Friends to support the breaching proposals.
Friends Board Chair Annie Munch looks back on the past year and sees the future of Gorge protection and accessibility through the eyes of her grandson.
Finance Director Paige Unangst: While the pandemic has continued to be challenging on many fronts, Friends is fortunate to have successfully embraced operating with a hybrid or remote model.
In a guest blog, Washington State Parks Communications Consultant Meryl Lassen that "with a little help from our Friends, Washington State Parks will improve safety and access at Beacon Rock."
Friends has been investing in community partnerships to improve accessibility and inclusion at critical land trust acquisitions at Cape Horn and Catherine Creek.
After an extended pause on Friends' youth education programs due to the pandemic, students are finally able to spend a full school day learning outside the classroom.
It's inspiring to see a wide and deep base of support for the protections the Scenic Area enjoys today, a testament to decades of hard work.