A Generous Nature: Lives Transformed by Oregon offers profiles of twenty-one conservationists and activists who have made enduring contributions to the preservation of Oregon’s wild and natural places and high quality of life. These stories speak to their courage, foresight, and actions—at times against great odds— to enact legislation and motivate others to cherish and protect the places that make Oregon unique.

Taken from personal interviews conducted by the author over a decade, these stories will help readers understand the histories of Oregon’s exceptional places, innovative planning efforts, and laws. They provide insight into the principles and values that motivated individuals to preserve the beauty and natural resources of Oregon, craft legislation to further protect them, and educate others about their value. Houle features locations as diverse as the Columbia River Gorge Natural Scenic Area, the wild and scenic Sandy River, and Tryon Creek State Park, along with background on critical laws and organizations such as the Beach Bill, Diack Act, Senate Bill 100, SOLVE, and the High Desert Partnership.

These stories do more than educate. They will inspire readers and demonstrate that individually we can make a difference. A Generous Nature is a crucial reminder of our responsibility to stand for and defend the places, ideals, and laws that make Oregon a progressive model for the rest of the nation.