Steve Roelof Website
Bitteroot
Bitteroot blooms on north-facing cliffs in western North America.
The Paiute name for bitteroot is kangedya. Traditional Native American uses of the plant included eating the roots, mixed with berries and meat, and using the roots to treat sore throats.
Western Rattlesnake
Also known as the Great Basin Rattlesnake, these pit vipers have buff-tan coloring and small, oval blotches to blend into their arid surroundings. Small heat-sensing indentations on each side of the snake’s snout detects warm-blooded prey for better striking accuracy in the dark. Source: The Oregon Encyclopedia
Latin name: Crotalus oreganus lutosus
Tibetan Monks Visit Sutton Mountain
The John Day River Basin, in northeastern Oregon, is ruggedly beautiful country holding mountainous terrain, steep river canyons, and rich wildlife habitat.
Absent of dams and among the longest free-flowing rivers in the nation, the John Day River is home to wild steelhead, Chinook salmon, bull trout, westslope cutthroat trout, and interior redband trout.
The John Day River Basin is a geologic wonder, where Oregon’s ancient history is on display. The region’s famous John Day Fossil Beds National Monument is a starting point for exploring 50 million years of natural wonders.
For decades, Oregon Natural Desert Association has aimed to protect and restore this region’s natural legacy. From critical habitat for fish and wildlife, to the captivating experience the region offers visitors and beyond, the John Day River Basin is worthy of strong conservation action. ONDA’s vision for new protections centers on Sutton Mountain.
Mark Molner
Jim Davis Website
At 4,700 feet tall, Sutton Mountain towers over the surrounding landscape. With a steep, craggy west side and a rolling, grassy eastern face, the mountain has a mysterious Jekyll and Hyde quality. Sutton Mountain is home to bountiful wildflowers in the spring and vibrant herds of pronghorn, elk, and mule deer. Here solitude is...
Read MoreSleep under the stars at one of our favorite campgrounds, or find local lodging options.
Expect small town hospitality and charm at these cafes.
Lace up your hiking boots, pack your waders, or a raft. Beautiful views and solitude await you however you choose to explore this region.
Be prepared with advice, links, and further reading.
Today, Sen. Jeff Merkley, announced that he will introduce the Sutton Mountain and Painted Hills Area Preservation and Economic Enhancement Act that would establish the Sutton Mountain Wilderness to protect an area in the John Day River Basin renowned for spectacular scenery and prime wildlife habitat. “With this legislation, we’ll make sure that future generations […]
Read MoreOregonians love our land, and there is a lot to love. Millions of acres of public land across Oregon’s high desert enhance our lives every day. And, these lands aren’t just ours. Public lands in Oregon are a natural legacy shared by all Americans. Without active caretaking, we stand to lose places we cherish, but, […]
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