Oregon State Parks Trust actively supports expansion and enhancement of Oregon's park system-- from protection of natural areas, to restoration and preservation of some of Oregon’s most prized historic monuments and places, to the establishment of interpretive and educational programs for the benefit of park visitors. Oregon State Parks Trust accomplishes this by raising funds and building unique partnerships with individuals, businesses, and community organizations.

Recent Accomplishments:

Oregon State Parks Trust, working in concert with Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, purchased 62 acres between the Wallowa County town of Joseph and Wallowa Lake to the south. The $4.1 million deal, which closed July 24, 2007, purchased the property known locally as Marr Ranch. The land is adjacent to the Old Chief Joseph (Tuekakas) Cemetery site. Its addition to the Oregon state park system will help protect noteworthy cultural and historical resources and important riparian areas along the Wallowa River.

OPRD funded $3.2 million of the purchase price from its acquisition budget, funded by dedicated money from Oregon Lottery profits. The Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation, Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation and the Nez Perce Tribe each donated $300,000 to Oregon State Parks Trust. The Trust used the donated $900,000 to pay the balance of the purchase price and now holds a 22% share of title to the land.

The project partners, along with many local and other interested parties, will work together to develop a master plan for the property, after which the property will be opened to the public as a new Oregon state park.