On September 2, 2017, loose fireworks sparked a devastating wildfire just outside of Portland, OR in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area that would burn nearly 3 months and 50,000 acres before it could be contained. In its wake, the Eagle Creek Fire left a burn scar, miles of impassable trails, a community grieving the loss of this beloved landscape, and those determined to bring it back to life.
Recognizing the need for a central fund donors could contribute to, the National Forest Foundation raised over $200,000 to restore damaged trails on the Gorge. The NFF then partnered with local organizations like the Trailkeepers of Oregon to engage volunteers and get work done on the ground.
Recreation recovery work for a burn this severe can easily take decades, but thanks to the NFF’s leadership and the dedication of our partners and community, only seven years after the Eagle Creek Fire, 102 of the 118 miles of trails closed after the fire have been reopened with the remaining work slated to be completed this year. The speed of the recovery is a testament to how special the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area is to the people who live, work, and play there.
We can't change the fact that wildfires are going to happen, but we can be there once they are done. With your help, the NFF can make a difference in the health and resiliency of these beloved public landscapes.