Oregon Owyhee Wilderness and Community Protection Act Introduced in Congress
On November 7, 2024, Representative Peter DeFazio (D-OR) introduced H.R. 10082, the Oregon Owyhee Wilderness and Community Protection Act. The bill aims to protect and enhance the Owyhee Canyonlands in southeastern Oregon, an ecologically and culturally significant landscape.
Key Provisions of the Bill
- Designates approximately 1.3 million acres of the Owyhee Canyonlands as wilderness, including the Owyhee Breaks, Castle Rock, Jackass Butte, Juniper Gulch, and Riley Pass areas.
- Establishes the Owyhee Canyonlands National Monument within the designated wilderness, providing additional protection for its geological, ecological, and cultural resources.
- Expands the existing Wild and Scenic River protections for the Owyhee River and its tributaries, ensuring their long-term conservation.
- Supports local communities by providing funding for economic development, recreation, and conservation projects.
Ecological Significance
The Owyhee Canyonlands are renowned for their exceptional biodiversity and unique ecosystems. They are home to diverse plant and animal species, including the threatened sage-grouse, pygmy rabbits, and bighorn sheep. The area also supports a variety of riparian habitats along the Owyhee River and its tributaries.
Cultural Importance
The Owyhee Canyonlands have a rich cultural history spanning thousands of years. The area is inhabited by the Shoshone-Paiute tribes, who have a deep connection to the land and its resources. The canyonlands also contain numerous archaeological sites and historic trails that tell the story of human settlement in the region.
Economic Benefits
The bill recognizes the economic importance of the Owyhee Canyonlands for local communities. It supports sustainable tourism, recreation, and livestock grazing that provide jobs and revenue for the region. The designation of wilderness and the establishment of the national monument will also help attract visitors and promote economic development in surrounding towns and cities.
Congressional Support and Opposition
Representative DeFazio has been a strong advocate for protecting the Owyhee Canyonlands for decades. The bill has received support from environmental organizations, recreation groups, and some local businesses. However, it has also faced opposition from some ranchers and mining interests who are concerned about the potential impact on grazing and mineral exploration.
Outlook
The Oregon Owyhee Wilderness and Community Protection Act is expected to undergo a legislative process in the coming months. The House Natural Resources Committee will consider the bill and hold hearings to gather input from stakeholders. If the bill is approved by the committee, it will be voted on by the full House of Representatives. The bill could then face further debate and a vote in the Senate before becoming law.
Conclusion
The Oregon Owyhee Wilderness and Community Protection Act represents a significant effort to protect and enhance the ecologically and culturally rich Owyhee Canyonlands. By designating wilderness, establishing a national monument, and supporting local communities, the bill aims to preserve this special landscape for generations to come.
H.R. 10082 (IH) – Oregon Owyhee Wilderness and Community Protection Act
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