A Force for Nature: Nancy Russell's Fight to Save the Columbia Gorge

A Force for Nature is a biography of Nancy Russell and her successful campaign to establish and protect the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. It tells the story of the unlikely activist who fought one of the most fiercely contested conservation battles of the 1980s, interweaving it with the natural and political history of the legendary landscape.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 24 October 2022
Publisher: Oregon State University

A Force for Nature is a captivating biography that delves into the remarkable life and unwavering efforts of Nancy Russell, a passionate advocate who played a pivotal role in establishing and safeguarding the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. Written by Bowen Blair, this book weaves together the captivating narrative of the unlikely activist's unwavering commitment to conservation, intertwining it with the rich natural and political history of the awe-inspiring landscape that inspired her.

Spanning an impressive eighty-five miles, the Columbia Gorge forms an integral part of the border between Oregon and Washington, boasting a rich heritage and unparalleled scenic beauty. Within this breathtaking landscape, numerous cultural divisions and disputes arise, including clashes over private property rights, public land management, and tribal treaty rights. In the early 1980s, as a new interstate bridge was constructed, linking Portland to rural counties in Washington, the Gorge's renowned vistas were teetering on the brink of destruction.

Enter Nancy Russell, a forty-eight-year-old woman with no prior experience in advocacy, fundraising, or politics. Undeterred by the daunting challenges ahead, Russell embarked on a mission to protect the Gorge. Building a grassroots movement from scratch, she overcame seventy years of failed efforts and fierce opposition from governors, counties, residents, and even the Reagan administration. Through relentless determination and unwavering commitment, Russell halted subdivisions, factories, and government neglect through legal battles initiated by her organization, Friends of the Columbia Gorge.

Despite facing initialIgnore and even threats to her safety, Russell persisted in her efforts. Her unwavering dedication and resilience led to the passage of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act, which narrowly passed on the last day of the congressional session in 1986. This landmark legislation was signed by a reluctant President Reagan, marking a significant victory for Russell and her cause.

Russell's vision for the Friends extended beyond the establishment of the Scenic Area. She strategically positioned the organization as a watchdog, ensuring its continued protection and preservation. She also orchestrated the purchase of additional lands within the Gorge, expanding its protected status.

A Force for Nature is a testament to Nancy Russell's unwavering spirit, her unwavering commitment to conservation, and her remarkable ability to inspire and mobilize communities toward a shared goal. Through her tireless efforts, Russell not only secured the protection of the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area but also left a lasting legacy that will be cherished for generations to come.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780870712180