Officials of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) and the Conservation and Recreation Fund invite every Oregonian to celebrate Nature of Oregon Day this Thursday.
April 7 is an opportunity for Oregonians to raise awareness of crucial conservation goals and reduce the obstacles for underserved communities to get outdoors, as per a press release by ODFW last Tuesday.
“Oregon is renowned for its natural beauty, bounty, and unique places, from our iconic forests to our stunning shorelines and majestic mountains,” said Governor Kate Brown in the release.
April 7 is Nature of Oregon Day — let’s celebrate by getting outside and enjoying Oregon’s amazing outdoor recreation opportunities. And let’s take a moment to recognize what a healthy environment means for Oregonians of all backgrounds and walks of life.”
According to ODFW, nearly 4 million residents and 700 species call Oregon their home. Healthy landscapes are crucial for the animals and plants living within Oregon in the same way that they contribute to their physical, economic, and social well-being.
The Conservation and Recreation Fund was set up to work with ODFW and the Oregon Conservation Strategy, a blueprint for conserving Oregon’s fish, wildlife, and habitats.
The program offers grants for projects that benefit Conservation Strategy species and helps fund research in community science, outdoor equity, and access to recreation.
“ODFW is dedicated to protecting and enhancing fish, wildlife, and their habitats. Through the support of the OCRF, we can continue to promote access and opportunities for Oregonians to enjoy our great state,” said ODFW Director Curt Melcher in the release.
Growing pressures from population growth and environmental changes make the stewardship of their natural resources increasingly tricky. Furthermore, according to a report, many people face significant barriers to enjoying outdoor activities.
Officials from the Conservation and Recreation Fund are eager to work towards building a bigger legacy.
“Together, we can protect and maintain our communities — plants, animals, and humans — for generations to come,” said Chairman Karl Wenner. “This is the Nature of Oregon.”
This article originally appeared on Argus Observer.