The Smith River is one of the last major free-flowing rivers on the West Coast. Known for its exceptional water quality, unique botanical resources, and spectacular paddling opportunities, it flows from the rugged Kalmiopsis Wilderness in southwest Oregon into northern California and the Pacific Ocean near Crescent City. American Whitewater works to protect the river’s headwaters and outstanding recreation values in partnership with the Smith River Alliance and many other local and national organizations.
Protecting the Headwaters from Mining Threats
The headwaters of the Smith River extend into Oregon, where the watershed remains remarkably pure. However, these pristine streams have long faced threats from proposals to develop nickel laterite strip mines, ore haul roads, and processing facilities. Such development would have devastating consequences for the water quality of both the Smith River—especially Baldface Creek in the North Fork Smith watershed—and Rough and Ready Creek in the Illinois River watershed.
Our persistent advocacy along with our partners has resulted in significant progress toward protecting these headwaters from mining but more work remains.
Administrative Ban on New Mining Claims
In January 2017, following a broad coalition effort, the Secretary of the Interior issued Public Land Order 7859, establishing an administrative ban on new mining claims across 106,238 acres in the Smith River watershed and adjoining areas of the Illinois River basin.
This action provides 20 years of protection for these public lands from new mineral entry. American Whitewater continues to work to make this protection permanent through federal legislation.
The Oregon Recreation Enhancement Act, championed by Senators Wyden and Merkley, and the Southwestern Oregon Watershed and Salmon Protection Act, now championed by Representative Val Hoyle, would permanently protect these river systems from future mining claims.
Outstanding Resource Waters Designation
In July 2017, the Oregon Environmental Quality Commission unanimously designated the North Fork Smith River as the first Outstanding Resource Water in the Pacific Northwest.
Outstanding Resource Waters are high-quality waters that represent exceptional ecological and recreational value and receive the highest level of protection under the Clean Water Act. Water quality and uses of these waters must be maintained and protected against all sources of pollution.
American Whitewater worked alongside local partners and hundreds of paddlers who spoke up during the public process to secure this landmark designation—ensuring the North Fork Smith remains one of Oregon’s purest rivers.
Smith River National Recreation Area Expansion
In 1990, Congress enacted legislation to establish the Smith River National Recreation Area (NRA) to protect the watershed, but the boundary of the NRA stopped at the Oregon border, leaving the North Fork of the Smith River and its tributaries unprotected.
American Whitewater strongly supports the Smith River National Recreation Area Expansion Ac, introduced in the Senate by Senator Merkley and co-sponsored by Senators Wyden, Padilla, and Schiff, and in the House by Representatives Huffman and Hoyle.
The North Fork of the Smith River, originating with its headwaters in Oregon and flowing through California, is recognized as one of the nation’s premier whitewater runs, featuring clear blue water, high-quality rapids, and spectacular scenery. The watershed is characterized by rare hydrologic and botanical resources, as well as unique opportunities for backcountry recreation.
The proposed legislation would expand the Smith River National Recreation Area by 58,000 acres, protecting the diverse ecosystems of this watershed and providing consistent management for the recreational opportunities our members enjoy in this spectacular landscape. Additionally, the legislation would extend Wild and Scenic designation to the upper watershed of the North Fork of the Smith River and its major tributaries. This would further protect one of the West Coast’s last free-flowing rivers and a special place for all who enjoy wild rivers.
American Whitewater’s Commitment
From the Smith’s emerald headwaters to its confluence with the Pacific, American Whitewater remains deeply engaged in efforts to safeguard clean water, wild river values, and public access. Together with our partners, we are working to permanently protect this exceptional river system so that it continues to flow free and pure for all who know and love it.