The Columbia River Gorge Commission, the agency responsible for managing and protecting the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area (National Scenic Area), faces an existential threat after the Washington State House voted to eliminate all state funding for the agency.

Commissioners voted unanimously in favor of a Resolution Appreciation for former member Sondra Clark, who passed away recently. They also approved a request from staff to work with both the Washington and Oregon legislatures to make changes to the bi-state compact that created the Gorge Commission.

From the Columbia River Gorge Commission:

For the first time in the history of the Columbia River Gorge Commission, a member of a federally recognized tribe will lead the organization. During the November 8, 2022, Commission meeting, Carina Miller, of the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, was elected as Chair of the Commission.