Protect the Chetco Wild and Scenic River!

Tell the Interior Secretary and Congress to
protect the Chetco from mining.

The Wild and Scenic Chetco River is renowned for world-class salmon & steelhead runs, and crystal clear water.

But it is still vulnerable to mining thanks to the General Mining Law of 1872 -- which gives mining precedence over all other uses.

Thankfully, the Interior Department is considering protecting 17 miles of river from mining for the next 5 years -- to give Congress time to pass more lasting protection.

Protect the Chetco! Photo: Ann Vileisis

But the clock is ticking! If the Interior Secretary, and Congress, don't act soon the river will be open to mining once again.

TAKE ACTION: Tell the Interior Secretary and Congress to protect the Chetco Wild and Scenic River from suction dredge mining.

More information:

Save Our Chetco River
National Wild and Scenic Rivers: Chetco River.
Open Congress: Chetco River Protection Act.
U.S. Forest Service: Temporary segregation of mineral entry on the Chetco Wild and Scenic River.
Western Outdoor News: Chetco River yields four king salmon over 50 lbs in one week. News article.

Instructions:

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Subject:

Your Letter:

I support protection of the Wild and Scenic Chetco River from mining. With its crystal clear water, big salmon, wild backcountry, and fabulous camp spots, the Wild and Scenic Chetco River is a great American outdoor treasure. It’s also the beloved backyard river of local communities that benefit economically from its world-class salmon and steelhead fishery and the pure drinking water it provides.

The Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest recently released its environmental assessment (EA) for a 5-year mineral withdrawal in aid of legislation (the Chetco River Protection Act). The EA makes clear that suction dredge mining along the river threatens the outstandingly remarkable values for which the area was designated. It emphasizes that these values are important economic drivers for local communities and that these values can only be fully protected through a mineral withdrawal.

I urge you to take immediate measures to protect the Chetco Wild and Scenic River from mining.

Sincerely,