2016 JUN 16: Frank Moore, WWII Veteran, on the North Umpqua River in Oregon.
Senator’s Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley reintroduced legislation today that would protect one of the country’s best remaining populations of wild steelhead.
The “Frank and Jeanne Moore Wild Steelhead Special Management Area” bill will safeguard more than 100,000 acres of habitat on the famed North Umpqua.
“Trout Unlimited applauds the determined leadership of Oregon Senators’ Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley as well as Oregon Congressmen, Peter DeFazio for re-introducing the “Frank and Jeanne Moore Wild Steelhead Special Management Area” bill in Congress,” said Dean Finnerty, Southwest Oregon field organizer for Trout Unlimited.
The legislation would honor two of America’s greatest citizens who have devoted their lives to the service of others. Frank Moore began his service to our country when he landed on the beaches of Normandy during the D-day invasion. Upon his return to Oregon after service in WWII, Frank and his beloved bride, Jeanne started to build their lives together. Frank found the waters of the North Umpqua healing after the war.
Over the next 70 years, the two dedicated their lives to the river, building their world famous Steamboat Inn. They have been instrumental in protecting the forests, plants, wildlife and native fish throughout the region.
“It seems only right and fitting that we honor these two great Americans by encouraging Congress to enact this bi-partisan bill. This bill enjoys tremendous local support from the conservation community, local businesses, sportsmen groups and others. The protection of nearly 99,653 acres of public land located in the Steamboat Creek drainage will endure through time as a testament to Frank and Jeanne” Finnerty said.