The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is asking community members to participate in an important project to study a section of the Chetco River for possible inclusion into the State Scenic Waterways Program. Based on recent direction from Governor Kitzhaber, OPRD will study at least three waterways every two years to see if they could be added to the scenic waterway system. Information about the scenic waterways study process online at: http://tinyurl.com/scenicwaterwaysreview OPRD’s role is to develop a report that explains whether this waterway would make a good addition to the system. During this process, OPRD will objectively evaluate the waterway’s eligibility based on criteria, host a discussion among community members, and evaluate public support. Findings will be included in a report that will go to the Governor’s Office by the end of the year. A community meeting will be held on September 11, 7-9 p.m. at the Brookings Library at 405 Alder Street. At this meeting, OPRD will review how the river fits the scenic waterway criteria, share identified issues and concerns, answer questions, and ask attendees to share their views on the river. If community members are unable to attend this meeting, an online survey will be available until October 15 by accessing the webpage listed above. Comments may also be provided by sending an email to scenic.waterways@oregon.gov. For more information about the meeting, contact Steve Kay, Recreation Grants and Community Programs Manager, at (503) 986-0705, steve.kay@oregon.gov.
