Defend Whychus-Deschutes
Last month Rep. Greg Walden’s bill to remove protection from public lands in Whychus-Deschutes passed the House. Now, it is up to Oregon’s Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley to stop this attack on Whychus-Deschutes and help come up with a solution that will permanently protect places like Alder Springs and Steelhead Falls while...
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Ten Winter Adventures in the High Desert
Five for No Snow, Five for Snow. Winter in Oregon’s high desert can look and be quite different from one year to the next. In winter 2017, copious snowfall covered much of the sagebrush sea with feet of fun for skiers and snowshoers. The 2018 winter season, so far, has lent itself more to...
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Cregg Large, member since 2009
“I came to Oregon 12 years ago from Texas. Texas, for all its size, has very little public land. Coming to Oregon has made me realize the special gift we as Americans have in our public lands. Volunteering with an organization like ONDA is my way of reciprocating for this gift. Through restoration efforts,...
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Swallowtail
The Oregon Swallowtail butterfly is the official state insect of Oregon and a true native of the Pacific Northwest. The Swallowtail can be seen in the lower sagebrush canyons of the Columbia River and its tributaries, including the Snake River drainage area. Source: State Symbols USA Latin name: Papilio oregonius
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Young Horny Toad Lizard
In the summer these lizards begin foraging for food as soon as their body temperature rises as the heat of the day increases. They feed on slow-moving, ground-dwelling insects. In the fall they hibernate by burying themselves in the sand. Latin name: Phrysonoma platyrhinos
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Central Oregon’s “Backyard Wilderness”
Our quest to protect the Oregon Badlands Located just 15 miles east of Bend, Oregon Badlands is a 30,000-acre wilderness area filled with fascinating lava flows and ancient juniper trees. Arriving in the Badlands, so named for its rugged and harsh terrain, can feel like stepping onto another planet. Within this landscape, you will...
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Scout Camp Trail
The Scout Camp loop trail on the Middle Deschutes River is one of the most spectacular hikes you’ll find in Central Oregon. About a third of a mile from the trailhead, the trail descends steeply into the Deschutes River Canyon. On the way down, enjoy the fascinating geology of the canyon walls and views...
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Alder Springs
Located on Lower Whychus Creek, Alder Springs is an oasis in the high desert. The trail starts at the top of the Whychus Creek Canyon and descends gradually to the creek, with panoramic views of the Cascades, towering rock formations, and the rushing waters of Whychus Creek below. At 1.5 miles, hikers reach Alder...
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