Why is the Columbia River Gorge Important?
· Formed by ancient volcanoes and cataclysmic floods, the Gorge carves a spectacular corridor through the Cascade Mountains in Oregon and Washington. · The Scenic Area stretches 85 miles on both sides of the Columbia River from Troutdale, Oregon and Washougal, Washington in the west to the Deschutes River in the east. · The Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (Scenic Area) is home to an incredible combination of spectacular landscapes, rare plants, wildlife, recreational opportunities, farmland, ancient Indian rock art, and other cultural and historic sites. It is also home to more than 55,000 people and a place to visit for more than 2 million people each year. · Millions of federal dollars have flowed into the Scenic Area as a result of Congress’ recognition of its importance as a national resource. Those dollars have gone to a variety of economic development, recreation, county, and other functions. Who Manages the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (NSA)? · The Scenic
