Punch Bowl Falls is one of Oregon’s iconic scenic and recreational sites, and the Hood is
the go-to river for boaters in the Columbia River Gorge. Above the Falls, the West Fork of the
Hood flows through two beautiful gorges. It provides an opportunity for boaters to test and
strengthen their Class IV skills with consistently fun rapids at a variety of flows. Below the
falls, the West Fork joins the East Fork to form the Hood River, where boaters can enjoy Class
III water on a newly free-flowing river following the removal of Powerdale Dam. The area around
the Falls is not only an important access point for boaters, but is significant to the overall
community. Located in a stunning canyon, it provides a sanctuary for salmon, access for fishing
and swimming and has great potential for day use.
While the site has been used by the boating community and the general public for decades, it is
in fact private land. A few years ago Western Rivers Conservancy purchased 102 acres surrounding
the falls, including 2 miles of river, to protect it from development. Based in Portland, OR,
Western Rivers Conservancy protects outstanding river ecosystems in the western United States by
acquiring private lands and transferring them to long-term stewards for permanent conservation
and management.
Western Rivers Conservancy intents to sell the $1.1-million property to Hood River County to
manage as a Park. The Hood River Valley Residents Committee has initiated a process to solicit
community feedback on the idea and an initial meeting this month drew approximately 60 supporters
of the idea. In addition, several hundred individuals have responded to an online survey. If the
County is not able to secure funds (the most likely source is an Oregon State Parks grant
program), it is possible that Western Rivers Conservancy would sell the property to a private
buyer with a conservation easement but with no provisions for continued public access.
Our goal at American Whitewater is to see this site protected for public use and enjoyment with
minimal park facilities and improvement. Members of the boating community can help in the
following ways:
1) Attend the next public forum on February 10 at 6 pm, Board of Commissioners Meeting Room, 601
State Street, Hood River, OR
2) Fill out the
online survey.
Results will be posted on February 15th.
3) If you are a local county resident or business owner, communicate the importance of this site
to your County Commissioners and highlight the unique value of this site on a river that has
limited public access. If you represent a paddling club or organization who can speak to the
regional significance of this site, consider a letter to the
County Commissioners.
4) Contact us if you have a deeper interest in getting more involved with site planning or taking
a site tour to discuss this opportunity. We have a good group of American Whitewater members who
have volunteered but welcome others.
More Background
In the News:
