Protect The Methow Valley

Protect The Methow Valley

One of Washington's most iconic wild places needed our help. And we answered the call! On March 12, a sweeping public lands package was signed into law, which permanently protects the Methow Valley from industrial scale mining claims. 

We'd like to extend a huge thank you to everyone who answered calls-to-action on behalf of this issue. Achievements like this require the constant voice of public lands champions. You all helped highlight the importance of the outdoor experience to legislators, and they listened.

Thank our Lawmakers

There’s one last thing we can do to ensure future conservation successes: Thank our legislators for a job well done and for protecting public lands. Use the easy action tool below to send your representatives a note of appreciation.

Thank our Lawmakers

A TImeLine

Securing protections requires working with land managers and lawmakers on both short and long term solutions. Here's a recap. Thanks for joining us every step of the way!

BUILD BROAD SUPPORT 

Thousands have come together on this issue. From attending meetings to signing the support petition, and our voices are being heard.

SECURE A 2-YEAR MINERAL WITHDRAWAL 

Land managers issued a two-year “time out” on mining, while they consider longer term protections. This was a really important step - thanks to those who took action.

SECURE A 20-YEAR MINERAL WITHDRAWAL 

Thousands of you submitted comments encouraging our land managers to move forward with a 20-year mineral withdrawal - thank you! Your efforts helped safeguard the region as  lawmakers and advocates worked on permanent protection.

PERMANENTLY PROTECT THE METHOW VALLEY - Success!

Senators Cantwell and Murray were integral in passing legislation to permanently safeguard the Methow Valley from mining. We appreciate both Washington senators for their leadership!


learn more

Join Us for Winter Trails Weekend in the Methow - Jan 3-6, 2020

Join Us for Winter Trails Weekend in the Methow - Jan 3-6, 2020

Mountaineers cross-country ski and snowshoe leaders will be offering a series of trips over a long weekend in the Methow Valley. These trips are scheduled for a variety of abilities in locations varying from Mazama to Sun Mountain to Loup Loup ski area.

It's Official: Public Lands Package Signed into Law!

It's Official: Public Lands Package Signed into Law!

Over the years, members of our greater community took action 5,237 times to help champion causes included in the public lands package. These measures have now become law. Thank you for making your voice heard and staying the course!

Public Lands Package Passes the House - Set to Become Law

Public Lands Package Passes the House - Set to Become Law

The outdoor experience scored a major win with the passage of the public lands package. Check out what this sweeping legislation means for Washington State and beyond.

Take Action: Public Lands Package Passes the Senate, Moves on to the House

Take Action: Public Lands Package Passes the Senate, Moves on to the House

The Senate passed a sweeping public lands package, which includes key measures for the Pacific Northwest. Now it's time to ask the House of Representatives to move the package forward.

Methow Update: Public Input Needed to Secure Protection from Mining Threats

Methow Update: Public Input Needed to Secure Protection from Mining Threats

We’re at a critical juncture in the march to protect the Methow Valley from mining. The Forest Service has opened a public comment period and needs to hear from you.

Two Key Washington State Public Lands Bills Advance in Senate

Two Key Washington State Public Lands Bills Advance in Senate

Good news for the Mountains to Sound Greenway and the Methow Valley! Bills to protect these landscapes passed through the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee.

Senators Cantwell and Murray Re-introduce Methow Headwaters Act

Senators Cantwell and Murray Re-introduce Methow Headwaters Act

Washington's senators keep pushing to permanently protect the Methow Valley's lands and waters from mining threats.

Methow Update: Mining Suspended, Public Input Needed

Methow Update: Mining Suspended, Public Input Needed

The Bureau of Land Management issued a two-year "timeout" on mining in the Methow Valley. Now, that agency wants public input as they evaluate an extension that would make the area off-limits to mining for 20 years.

Campaign to Protect the Methow Valley from Mining Forges Ahead with Senate Hearing

Campaign to Protect the Methow Valley from Mining Forges Ahead with Senate Hearing

With its first Senate committee hearing in the books, the Methow Headwaters Protection Act comes one step closer to safeguarding the region's treasured lands and waters.

Senate Staffers Hike Goat Peak to Learn More About the Methow Headwaters Campaign

Senate Staffers Hike Goat Peak to Learn More About the Methow Headwaters Campaign

The campaign to protect the Methow Valley from mining recently had the opportunity to share their land and perspectives with Senate staffers.

Campaign Seeks to Fend Off Mining in the Methow Valley

Campaign Seeks to Fend Off Mining in the Methow Valley

Concerns over a proposed industrial mining site have prompted citizens, businesses, and organizations to form the Methow Headwaters Campaign, which aims to halt mining on the watershed's U.S. Forest Service lands.