Nov. 8, 2024
I realize many of us have been feeling upset, anxious, and concerned over the last couple of days. The presidential election results present new and unprecedented challenges for the environment and the conservation movement.
It’s understandable to feel disheartened. While there is no doubt the second Trump administration will bring fresh threats to our nation’s environment, its public lands, and the rivers, lakes, and streams that belong to all of us, now is not the time to despair.
WaterWatch has persisted for nearly 40 years as a fearless organization that advocates for Oregon’s waters. Our strong community of members, supporters, volunteers, and conservationists has been there fighting alongside of us every step of the way. All of you truly make this work possible.
Our track record of victories over the last four decades is as impressive as it is lengthy. There’s a reason for that. WaterWatch is highly effective at achieving strategic wins and reforms for Oregon’s rivers, no matter who occupies the White House.
As we approach WaterWatch’s 40th anniversary, it’s imperative we join together as a community and stand for our shared values. I promise you WaterWatch will continue to fight harder than ever for our mission: protecting and restoring healthy, free-flowing Oregon rivers for the fish, wildlife, and people that rely on them to survive. Our advocacy today will secure meaningful conservation wins that will endure for future generations of Oregonians, and no change in administration can halt that.
Please take the time you and your loved ones need. We’ll all need to gather our strength for the work ahead. It may not be easy. But we know when we join together to stand for what we believe in, we can make a real impact — just as we have for the last 39, going on 40 years.
When you’re ready, please join us. Together, we’ll keep standing up for Oregon’s rivers.
In solidarity,
Neil Brandt
Executive Director
WaterWatch of Oregon