Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage
Leather Community Forest is a community-managed forest located in western Oregon, spanning thousands of acres of mixed coniferous and hardwood forests. The area features diverse ecosystems including Douglas fir, western hemlock, cedar groves, and mixed hardwoods, which provide critical habitat for local wildlife such as black-tailed deer, Roosevelt elk, and a variety of bird species. Established in the early 2000s through a cooperative agreement between local stakeholders and forestry professionals, Leather Community Forest emphasizes sustainable forest management practices alongside recreation and education. Visitors to the forest can enjoy hiking and mountain biking on an extensive network of trails that wind through old-growth patches, open meadows, and riparian zones. The forest also supports controlled hunting seasons, fishing in designated streams, and winter snowshoeing. Notable landmarks include Leather Ridge Lookout, a vista offering panoramic views of the Cascade Mountains and Willamette Valley, as well as Leather Creek, noted for its clear waters and native fish habitat. The forest serves as an important educational resource, with periodic guided tours focusing on forestry best practices, native flora and fauna, and conservation efforts. Its community ownership model makes Leather Community Forest a notable example of combining ecological stewardship with public access and local economic support.
