Annual Susan Hess State of the Columbia River Basin Fall Lecture/Dialogue
About this Event
Date: October 13th, 2026
Location: Ecotrust Building, 721 NW 9th Ave., Portland OR 97209
Come join us for a free and engaging evening filled with insightful discussion about the present and future of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act.
The CRGNSA was established by Congress in 1986. In the 40 years since, the nation’s largest scenic area has been visited by over 100 million people and become central to the identity of both Oregonians and Washingtonians. Multnomah Falls, Crown Point, Beacon Rock, Bridge of the Gods and other features are among the most visited natural attractions in the Pacific Northwest.
Despite this, efforts are underway to reduce funding and weaken the laws and regulatory bodies that have protected this environmental wonder for 40 years. In the Washington legislature, budget amendments have been proposed in each of the past two sessions to defund the bi-state Columbia River Gorge Commission that, along with the U.S. Forest Service, administers the Scenic Area.
Is the CRGNSA the best vehicle for protecting this region's environmental treasures while providing for economic growth of the 13 designated towns and cities within its borders? And with increased fire activity, seasonal changes in water availability and other extreme weather events, can the CRGNSA meet future challenges?
Join a panel of regional experts and stakeholders--Alex Johnson, current Gorge Commissioner, Asa Leskie, Skamania County Commissioner, and Gabe Sheoships, Executive Director of Friends of the Columbia Gorge--for a robust discussion and debate on the past, present and future of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
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