Agriculture in the National Scenic Area

The Columbia River Gorge is well known for its agriculture. Its rich volcanic soil and unique climate help grow everything from backyard gardens to large commercial crops. Farmers in the Mid-Columbia area harvest over 225,000 tons of apples, pears, and cherries each year.

Agriculture is a protected land use in the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area. The Management Plan identifies where agricultural use is allowed through Land Use Designations. Agricultural uses include growing crops, managing orchards, raising livestock, and other horticultural activities.

To learn how we are monitoring agriculture in the National Scenic Area, see the Agriculture page in the Vital Signs Data Hub.

For permitting questions related to agriculture, please contact:

• Bryce Guske, Senior Land Use Planner, Bryce.Guske@gorgecommission.org
• Joanna Kaiserman, Senior Land Use Planner, Joanna.Kaiserman@gorgecommission.org
• Mackenzie Aamodt, Land Use Planner, Mackenzie.Aamodt@gorgecommission.org