Friends of Country Living is a 50l(c)(3) non-profit organization and contributions are tax deductible to the extent permitted by law.
Don't Drain the Lifeblood of Sunny Valley
The map shown above outlines the JoCo County-deemed impact area of the proposed deep-pit sand and gravel mine in a residential area of Sunny Valley. Studies have indicated the potential impact of this operation could reach far beyond this immediate vicinity. Anyone or anything depending on the surface and ground waters of Grave Creek must consider this a serious threat to their water well quality and quantity, water rights, and consequently, to their property values.
What's the issue you ask? This mining operation requires copious amounts of Grave Creek diverted water to process sand and gravel. A creek that is in dire need of protection and restoration. A creek that cannot afford to give up water that it doesn't have to give.
Friends of Country Living supports the continued efforts of the community and WaterWatch of Oregon to protect Grave Creek from over-allocation and misappropriation. Grave Creek, a 40-mile-long tributary of the mighty Rogue River, supports the endangered Coho salmon, Pacific Lamprey, Pacific Steelhead, and a plethora of wildlife including golden and bald eagles, beaver, and river otters. Most importantly, this watershed also replenishes water well aquifers that many people depend on.
But what about personal property rights you ask? The waters of Oregon that pass through and beneath the lands of Oregon belong to all the people of Oregon. It is the responsibility of the Oregon Water Resources Department to ensure they are beneficially used and shared. The mission of WaterWatch of Oregon is to ensure this responsibility is carried out.
Your donations help with research, conservation advocacy, and education. Any unused donations will be rolled over into general operating funds to further this and other missions of the Friends of Country Living.