Walden Says Goodbye To Congress

Earlier this week, long time central and eastern Oregon representative Greg Walden took to the House floor one final time to say goodbye to his colleagues. Walden said growing up on a cherry orchard outside of The Dalles taught him to have great respect for farmers and ranchers.

“I worked hard to protect their way of life, defending farmers and ranchers from bad policy proposals. I defended their water rights. I protected their land, starting with saving Steens Mountain. Moreover, I supported ag research and water conservation efforts throughout the district. “

Walden continued that while much progress was made on both fronts while he was in Congress, he acknowledged his one regret is that the key to unlocking a durable and fair solution to the water crisis in the Klamath Basin could never be found. Walden went on to say progress was made to improve forest management, but he is disappointed Congress has “dragged its feet” in enacting addition reform to make our federal forests healthier and more resilient to climate change.

Walden has served the 2^nd District since 1999, and will be replaced in January by eastern Oregon cattle rancher Cliff Bentz.

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