(Courtesy photos for the Illinois Valley News)
The Rough and Ready Botanical Area recently saw a significant enhancement with the paving of its parking lot, a project facilitated by the Illinois Valley Community Development Organization. This marks the completion of Phase 3 in an ongoing initiative to improve accessibility to this unique natural area.
Local park steward and volunteer, Roger Brandt, expressed his enthusiasm for the project’s completion, stating, “This is a ‘finish line’ project that has been talked about and planned for about 20 years. Improving access to recreation and education resources for people of all abilities is what this project represents. A small project makes a big and significant addition to our community.”
Lindsey B. Jones, IVCanDO executive director added, “We are so grateful for the support from both our partners and the public for this project. The successful completion of this project was made possible through the generous support of the Four Way Community Foundation, Travel Oregon, Oregon State Parks, and our incredible volunteers that care about this special area.” These contributions have ensured that the Rough and Ready Botanical Area is more accessible, allowing everyone to enjoy its natural beauty and educational opportunities.
The accessibility improvements to Rough and Ready have been well supported by the community, with Phases 1 and 2 lengthening and widening the hiking trail, placing locally carved benches along the trail, and installing a welcome kiosk and interpretive signage. The users of the trail appreciate the enhanced accessibility and the positive impact it will have on local recreation, tourism and education.