Wild Places

We never forget how fortunate we are to be surrounded by extraordinary wild places. We live in a land created by powerful geologic forces over millennia. The Columbia Gorge National Scenic Area formed from basalt from ancient lava flows sculpted by a powerful river. Mt. Hood, the state’s tallest peak and our most visited national forest. Flora and fauna that stir the soul from endangered steelhead to morel mushrooms and calypso orchids. Hiking trails that connect us to nature and to ourselves.

But even the most special places are never fully protected. They need all of us.

Thrive’s Actions

Since its founding in 1977 as the Hood River Valley Residents Committee, Thrive has worked to:

• Protect the north side of Mt. Hood and the surrounding wild areas from intense commercial and resort development.
• Advocate for natural areas, scenic protection, watersheds and fish-bearing streams, and environmental protections in land use planning and permitting decisions.
• Connect landowners with nonprofit and governmental entities that can help protect their land beyond their lifetimes.