Sign in Subscribe
Natural resources

Expanding the Smith River National Recreation Area: A Conservation Effort for Southern Oregon and Northern California

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Congressional efforts to protect the North Fork Smith River watershed and its associated recreation opportunities have gained momentum with the introduction of the Smith River National Recreation Area (NRA) Expansion Act. U.S. Rep. Val Hoyle (OR-04) and Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02) have partnered to advance this legislation, which aims to safeguard the area's clean drinking water, rare plants, and world-class rivers, while also generating economic benefits through outdoor recreation.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Smith River NRA Expansion Act seeks to add 58,000 acres in Curry County, Oregon, to the existing Smith River NRA in Northern California, stopping at the California/Oregon border.
  • The legislation would designate 75 miles of rivers as Wild and Scenic, including Baldface Creek, Chrome Creek, and nearby streams.
  • Permanently preventing new mining projects in the recreation area is a key aspect of the bill, ensuring the area remains untouched for future generations.
  • The proposed legislation allows for critical wildfire prevention work in the area to continue, maintaining the delicate balance between resource conservation and public safety.
  • American Whitewater, Smith River Alliance, Trout Unlimited, and American Rivers have endorsed the bill, citing its importance for preserving the area's unique resources and promoting economic growth.

Statistics:

  • 58,000 acres in Curry County, Oregon, are proposed for addition to the existing Smith River NRA in Northern California.
  • 75 miles of rivers would be designated as Wild and Scenic, including Baldface Creek and Chrome Creek.
  • The Smith River is considered one of the last free-flowing rivers on the west coast, supporting Pacific salmon species and a robust outdoor recreation economy.
  • The proposed legislation would safeguard critical water sources for downstream communities and support the state's rural economy.

Sources:

  • Oregon Rep. Val Hoyle
  • Rep. Jared Huffman (CA-02)
  • Senator Jeff Merkley
  • American Whitewater -- Thomas O'Keefe, Director of Policy and Science
  • Smith River Alliance -- Grant Werschkull, Co-Executive Director
  • Trout Unlimited -- James Fraser, Oregon Policy Director
  • American Rivers -- David Moryc, Senior Director of River Protection

Read more