Panel discussion at a Gorge Commission meeting.

Committees

A Collaborative Effort

The Columbia River Gorge Commission (Gorge Commission) has several active committees that leverage and complement the work of our staff, while improving our decision-making. These committees help the Gorge Commission be a more responsive, transparent, and data-driven agency. They enhance our relationships with partners and build a foundation for a more robust, relevant, and better-funded Gorge Commission. 

Executive Committee

The Executive Committee provides advice and feedback to the Executive Director and Gorge Commission staff on draft agendas for upcoming Commission meetings. This committee is responsible for assisting the Commission Chair in conducting regular performance reviews of the Executive Director and for overseeing the search process and making recommendations to the Commission should the Executive Director position become vacant. 

Members: Valerie Fowler, Alex H. Johnson, Donna Mickley, Carina Miller, Rodger Nichols, Nathan Reynolds

Rules Committee

The Rules Committee reviews, discusses, and makes recommendations relating to the legal authorities of the Gorge Commission after reviewing current legal authorities, staff input, and public comment. This committee meets as needed with staff to accomplish these actions:

  • Review changes in state laws and judicial decisions that would require the Gorge Commission to amend its rules;
  • Preview potential rule changes or legislative concepts prior to staff presenting concepts to the full Gorge Commission, sharing rule change concepts with the states’ attorneys general, and seeking public engagement;
  • Discuss and assist staff in preparing amendments to the Gorge Commission’s rules and bylaws; and
  • Review and make recommendations on state and federal bills that could intersect with the Gorge Commission’s work.

The Rules Committee does not review or make recommendations for amendments to the Management Plan or the decennial Management Plan review process unless directed by the Gorge Commission.

Members: Laura Brennan Bissell, Valerie Fowler, Rodger Nichols, Pah-tu Pitt

Communications Committee

The Communications Committee was formed in 2025 to improve the Gorge Commission’s communications with the public and facilitate information exchange in a way that builds trust and relationships. Its goal is to ensure that dialogue, listening, and messaging facilitate smooth, transparent, and comprehensive information both ways with the four Columbia River treaty tribes, partners, residents, interested parties, and agencies.

Achieving open, honest, and responsive dialogue with the public will lead to a better understanding of the Gorge Commission’s work and role in the National Scenic Area and help us be more effective partners with Gorge communities.

Members: Steve Hochman, Alex H. Johnson, Lach Litwer, Pah-tu Pitt, Amy Weissfeld

Economic Vitality Committee

The Economic Vitality Committee was formed in 2025 to better define the Gorge Commission’s role in implementing economic development in the National Scenic Area to meet the economic purpose of the National Scenic Area Act. This committee identifies, recommends, and oversees actions that further enhance current Management Plan guidelines and policies in support of economic vitality. It interprets the Economic Chapter of the Management Plan as necessary to identify and make recommendations for additional actions that support economic vitality and may need amendments to the Management Plan. This committee may choose to create Economic Vitality Work Groups to engage diverse community members, local businesses, agriculture representatives, and economic experts to advise the committee on potential actions.

Members: Laura Brennan Bissell, Steve Hochman, Alex H. Johnson, Lach Litwer, Pah-tu Pitt