"THERE couldn't be a more meaningful presentation of  the case for education about the preservation of the Oregon Trail than can be found in Echo Meadows. A few years ago the ruts west of the crossing were absolutely pristine. Large segments have since been plowed. In the early spring and at the end of the growing season, just prior to harvest, the trace of the Oregon Trail is barely discernible. Would the farmer have reacted favorably had he been asked to donate a hiking easement through his land? Had he been offered a modest sum to keep from cultivating it? Greater efforts must be made toward preservation while there is still something left to preserve. It was this very incident which led directly to the founding of the Oregon-California Trails Association."  Gregory Franzwa Photo Copyright Jim Tompkins, used by permission

 

Ted Montgomery, Garth Kendig, and Dick Klein installing post for interpretation at Well Spring in the Boardman Bombing Range. Photos copyright Dick Klein, used by permission	These wonderfully pristine ruts are also on the bombing range. We must ask the navy's permission to venture anywhere beyond the interpretive area.