Since the passage of the National Scenic Area Act (Act) in 1986, the Portland/Vancouver metropolitan area has experienced unrelenting population growth. However, thanks to the Act, as you drive east from Portland or Vancouver past miles of subdivisions and strip development, the boundary of the National Scenic Area is strikingly apparent. A nearly instantaneous transition is clear, from aggressive suburban development to pastoral countryside.

If not for the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act, the scenic beauty and natural heritage so central to the region's quality of life would have been destroyed.

But how long will the Gorge be safe from sprawl?

Five of the six Gorge counties currently implementing a scenic area ordinance are responsible for enforcing those ordinances. However, in some counties, enforcement is sporadic. Some county officials still oppose Gorge protection. When illegal development occurs and the county planning authority does nothing, it becomes the Gorge Commission's responsibility ensure compliance.

Deliberate implementation and rigorous enforcement are vital to ensuring that the intent of the National Scenic Area Act is fulfilled under the current Management Plan. If provisions are not enforced, then even if the plan is strengthened during the upcoming review and revision process, it will be of little value in protecting the Gorge.

If the implementing agencies, in particular the counties, fail to carry out their responsibilities in accordance with the Gorge Act, the future of the Columbia Gorge is in jeopardy. There are no better examples of this than Skamania County's approval of the Bea house and a 5,600 square foot house currently under construction in a very visible location in east Clark County.

The Gorge Commission needs to hear from you!

Write to the Gorge Commission today! Tell them that you support the following:

• Working closely with the counties to ensure that the Gorge is protected,
• Revising the Management Plan to better protect provide long-term protection, and
• Increasing funding so that the public is better served and this natural and scenic treasure is preserved for our children and future generations.

Columbia River Gorge Commission
P.O. Box 730
White Salmon, WA 98672

Send copies to your legislators. They are responsible for approving funding for the Commission.