Merkley, Wyden Invite Further Public Comment on Proposal to Expand Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument
Press Release
Following last week's public hearing with the Deputy Secretary of the Interior, Oregon's Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today encouraged all interested Oregonians who were not able to attend the hearing in person to submit written comments on the proposed expansion of the Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument in Southern Oregon.
"It was powerful to see more than 500 local residents come out for the public hearing last Friday, and I deeply appreciate the presentations shared by those who testified, many of whom stayed for several hours to make their voices heard," said Merkley. "While a full public hearing is a valuable part of this process, it's important that all Oregonians have the chance to weigh in on this proposal while it is being considered. I invite and encourage any Oregonians who wish to weigh in on the proposed Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument expansion to join this public process and share their thoughts in a written comment."
"Protecting Oregon's pristine natural treasures as well as rural Oregonians' valued way of life are top priorities with any land use policy," Wyden said. "I've been working on ways to preserve this rugged landscape for years, and I'm glad to see steps are being taken to expand this remarkable jewel. As this discussion continues, I look forward to hearing from Oregonians about their vision for the future of Southern Oregon."
A map of the proposed monument expansion can be found here.
Those who are interested in submitting a written comment on the potential Cascade-Siskiyou National Monument expansion may do so in one of two ways:
1. Submit a written comment online at http://merkley.senate.gov/contact
2. Submit a written comment by mail to:
Senator Jeff Merkley
10 South Bartlett Street, Suite 201
Medford, OR 97501
Those who are interested in submitting comments are encouraged to do so within the next 30 days, by November 20. The Senators will share these comments with the Administration to inform the President's decision. Should the President decide to expand the monument, the public will then have additional opportunities to weigh in with federal agencies as a specific management plan for the new monument area is developed.
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