On February 16th 2006, the Columbia River Gorge Commission (CRGC) issued a decision to allow BNSF Railway Company (BNSF) to proceed with a construction project which will have severe and lasting negative impacts on Doug's Beach State Park, located on the Columbia River, in Klickitat County, just east of the town of Lyle, Washington. The decision was made despite significant public opposition to the application.

The construction would result in temporary loss of access to the park, permanent limitations on access, loss of lands designated for recreation, construction of pilings on the river itself adjacent to the sailing area, scenic loss, and more.

On March 20, this group has filed administrative appeals to reverse the CRGC decision. We have agreed to enter into mediation with BNSF, and are now participating in a pre-mediation survey.

The process is complex and difficult. We have three attorneys volunteering their time. Your support is needed!

Please help to save Doug's Beach. How? Join this website. Pledge money for legal expenses. Volunteer for meetings and legwork. Spread the word to anyone you know who's in a position to do the same.

HOW TO CONTRIBUTE: We are now calling in pledged contributions to meet expenses. Please contact the campaign coordinator at fsaab80303@-nospam-yahoo.com (remove -nospam-). You can also contribute by Paypal. Do not send checks to CGWA.

Total committed as of April 23, 2006: More then $7,000, from more than 20 donors. Thank you.

Frank Saab
Coalition Coordinator

Photo Credit: by permission of Wilton Hart, past president of CGWA. More photos and info at http://windsurf.mediaforte.com.