Owyhee River BioRegion

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The Owyhee River Bioregion is one of the wildest and most untamed landscapes in our local area. Spanning 900,000 acres along the Oregon-Idaho border, it features rugged canyons, vast rangelands, and the untamed Owyhee River. To the west lies the Malheur River Basin, while Jordan Valley sits to the southeast, forming part of the greater Snake River Bioregion.

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Because of its size, low population, and wild nature, the Owyhee River is protected under the Wild and Scenic Rivers Act, with the surrounding land under potential territory designation. Yet, within this rugged expanse, the heartbeat of American tradition is evident—where people have long drawn sustenance from the land. It is this deep-rooted connection between the land and its inhabitants that makes the Owyhee Bioregion a true reflection of the American spirit, transforming wilderness into a wild but sustainable resource where local communities can thrive.

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Rather than being designated as a federal park or monument, the area is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) in collaboration with local ranchers who lease BLM land alongside their own properties near the Owyhee Basin and behind the Owyhee Dam. It is a carefully maintained system, balancing the interests of landowners and outdoor enthusiasts alike. From fly fishing and boating to hiking, horseback riding, hunting, and sightseeing, this land is cherished and actively used by those who care for it.

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The Owyhee River supports a diverse range of wildlife, recreation, and ranching. It embodies a rare balance between natural beauty and human connection, ensuring that its future remains deeply tied to those who call it home.