The Campaign for America's Wilderness hailed the introduction today of The Cathedral Rock and Horse Heaven Wilderness Act of 2010, which will designate over 16,000 acres of wilderness in the Cathedral Rock and Horse Heaven areas near the lower John Day River as good for Oregonians and all Americans.
"Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have reinforced their commitment to protecting the special ecosystem around Oregon's John Day River and have worked in great collaboration with local landowners and conservation groups," said David Dreher, Policy Manager with the Campaign for America's Wilderness. "This important legislation will help ensure that these wild places stay as they are for future generations to enjoy."
The high desert John Day -- America's second longest free-flowing river -- provides critical habitat for the largest and most diverse runs of fish in Oregon. The areas surrounding, protected by this legislation, encompass dramatic basalt cliffs and rolling hills of juniper, sagebrush and bluebunch wheatgrass. The landscape also offers key habitat for pygmy rabbit and Ferruginous Hawk and is a critical corridor connecting the habitats of a large number of key wildlife species.
"Horse Heaven and Cathedral Rock are rich in human history with a significant number of archaeological treasures, including pithouse villages and stone tool sites. This legislation will help protect the human stories of the land for generations to come," Dreher added.
"Thanks to Senators Wyden and Merkley for their work and continued support of such a diverse group of local stakeholders. Let's see this legislation move quickly and give these areas the wilderness protection they so richly deserve."
