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 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: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 20 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. Author Bowen Blair weaves a captivating narrative, intertwining the story of the activist with the rich natural and political history of this awe-inspiring landscape.

Spanning an impressive 85 miles, the Columbia Gorge forms a significant part of the border between Oregon and Washington, boasting a rich heritage and unparalleled scenic beauty. Within its confines, a multitude of cultural divisions and disputes arise, encompassing urban versus rural, west of the mountains versus east, as well as clashes over private property rights, public land management, and tribal treaty rights.

In the early 1980s, as a new interstate bridge was constructed to connect the City of Portland with rural counties in Washington, the Columbia Gorge's renowned vistas faced an imminent threat of destruction. At forty-eight years old and with no prior experience in advocacy, fundraising, or politics, Nancy Russell embarked on a remarkable journey to save this iconic landscape. Despite facing formidable obstacles and fierce opposition from governors, counties, residents, and even the Reagan administration, Russell built a grassroots movement that surpassed 70 years of failed efforts.

Through relentless determination and unwavering commitment, Russell halted subdivisions, factories, and government neglect through legal actions initiated by her organization, Friends of the Columbia Gorge. She also secured last-minute land purchases by the Trust for Public Land (TPL), preventing further deforestation and preserving the Gorge's natural beauty. Initially ignored and even demonized by some, Russell's efforts were met with resistance and even threats to her safety. Her tires were slashed, and her life was threatened, but her unwavering determination remained steadfast.

In the face of adversity, Russell's campaign gained momentum, and the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area Act was narrowly passed on the last day of the congressional session in 1986. This landmark legislation was signed by a reluctant President Reagan just hours before it would have expired. Russell strategically positioned the Friends to serve as a watchdog, ensuring the protection and preservation of the Gorge for future generations.

A Force for Nature is a testament to Nancy Russell's unwavering spirit, courage, and determination in the face of overwhelming challenges. It sheds light on the complex interplay between activism, politics, and the preservation of natural wonders, reminding us of the power of one individual to make a lasting impact on the world we inhabit. Through her remarkable story, Russell inspires us to stand up for what we believe in, protect our planet's precious resources, and strive for a harmonious balance between human development and the preservation of our natural heritage.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780870712197