Cycling event will benefit watershed

Cyclists will pedal their way through the stunning landscapes of Oregon's Cascade mountains on Saturday, June 16, while supporting the conservation and stewardship of two mountain rivers.

Ride for Two Rivers, a cycling event hosted by the National Forest Foundation (NFF) in partnership with Cycle Oregon, supports the restoration of the Metolius River and Whychus Creek, two magnificent rivers that flow from the mountains toward their confluence with the Deschutes River.

They are places where native fish return to spawn and recreational experiences are shared across generations; restoration of these watersheds will preserve the special qualities of both the Deschutes National Forest and the fish and wildlife that depend upon it.

The ride begins at FivePine Lodge in Sisters, Oregon and winds its way through a forested landscape to the top of the spectacular lava-rock moonscape of McKenzie Pass, offering pristine mountain views along the way. This is an opportunity to ride on the pass road before it is open to motor vehicles. Riders will coast back to Sisters, where they can enjoy a scenic additional loop before heading back to FivePine Lodge (total route 55-miles, shorter route option 32-miles).

After the ride all cyclists are welcome to join the National Forest Foundation, Cycle Oregon, and event sponsors for a post-ride dinner at FivePine Lodge. Dinner reservations are available for purchase to all riders, family friends and community guests.

One hundred percent of the proceeds will support stewardship and restoration efforts on the Metolius River and Whychus Creek as part of the NFF's Treasured Landscapes conservation campaign. Rider contributions will be doubled as the NFF matches these funds to implement priority projects that include improving recreation facilities and trails; rejuvenating forests and wildlife habitat; and restoring riparian areas along both rivers including improved fishing access, non-native invasive species removal, and restoration of in-stream habitat for returning fish species.

To register, visit www.nationalforests.org/ridefortworivers.