June 29, 2011

We hope you've seen the current issue of Portland Monthly, which includes "The Ultimate Guide to Forest Park."

Editor Randy Gragg quotes John Olmsted, who wrote over 100 years ago that future generations "will bless the men who were wise enough to get such woods preserved."

The issue contains useful lists for all kinds of park users - the best hikes, runs, and bike trails - and is a great resource for regular users and new visitors alike.

It's an exciting time for Forest Park, founded in 1944. Over the last couple of years, Commissioner Fish has focused renewed energy on management of the park and conversations about its future.

Last June, Nick announced a 5-point action plan for the park.

In September, we successfully completed the 5 initiatives by:

• Finalizing a partnership agreement with the Forest Park Conservancy

• Completing a Desired Future Conditions report

• Hiring a new Park Ranger

• Completing a Recreation Survey

• Recruiting a City Club Forest Park Research Committee member to join the 2011-12 PP&R Budget Advisory Committee

We fought for $80,000 in this year's budget to fund a wildlife study at the park, a necessary precondition to any expanded recreation in the park.

We've instituted a new watch program at the park this Summer, our busiest season. Ranger Bob McCoy has organized a group of volunteers to act as park ambassadors throughout the Summer. Our professionally-trained volunteers will help educate park users about being good stewards of the park by staying on trails, keeping dogs leashed, and more. This is a great new initiative, and we're so glad we have Bob McCoy leading it.

And don't forget the Forest Park Conservancy All Trails Challenge, a 7-month trail-a-thon that raises funds to support the Conservancy's important work.

By the way - Portland Monthly is donating 65 cents from each newsstand sale to the Forest Park Conservancy. Pick your copy up today!

Photo: We borrowed this great shot from flickr user ArizonaHiking