Protecting clean drinking water, public lands recreation, and wildlife habitat are values Deschutes Brewery supports. We believe adding more of Oregon’s special rivers and streams to the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act will benefit all Oregonians. 

During these tough, times it’s critical to protect our natural environment, help reduce and manage wildfire risks, and balance the recreational access and job opportunities communities throughout Oregon rely on economically and for our well-being. In 2019, recreation in Oregon fueled more than 224,000 jobs, generated $9.3 billion in wages and $15.6 billing in total consumer spending. This legislation strikes this important balance, protecting our most cherished rivers, while ensuring access for our generation and future generations.

Oregonians have a proud tradition of making common-sense, far-sighted decisions to protect our greatest natural treasures for future generations to access and enjoy. Nowhere is Oregon’s legacy of conservation and access greater than our system of nationally designated Wild and Scenic Rivers. 

A professional fishing guide of 25 years on the Oregon coast, I’ve spent my career navigating these unique rivers, helping Oregonians and visitors experience the thrill of catching a wild salmon or steelhead. I strongly support expanding Wild & Scenic River designations to protect and recover our pristine rivers and preserve access for future generations.

A critical input for all of our farmers and ranchers is access to clean and sustainable water sources. It is in the best interest of farmers and ranchers to help preserve the land and water we rely on, while building a resilient local food system for generations to come. We look forward to supporting this legislation and working together to ensure its passage this Congress.