Central Oregon LandWatch debuts ‘Faces of Skyline Forest’ video series

Gravel cyclist Serena Bishop Gordon kicks off series; six more videos highlighting Central Oregonians to come 

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) — Central Oregon LandWatch has just released the first video in its new seven-part series, "Faces of Skyline Forest." The video, featuring professional gravel cyclist Serena Bishop Gordon, marks the beginning of a captivating exploration of Skyline Forest, just west of Bend.

Narrating from the stoop of her van, Bishop Gordon shares her personal connection to Skyline Forest and offers insights into the challenges and joys she has experienced in more than 1,000 hours of riding in the forest. 

“As more members of our community learn about Skyline, the more empowered we will be to raise a collective voice and propel this grassroots movement toward its ultimate goal: permanently conserving Skyline Forest for its essential natural values and public access,” said Bishop Gordon.

Featuring professional athletes, iconic wildlife, beloved community leaders, tribal cultural keepers, young scholars, and more, this video series highlights what Central Oregonians stand to gain if this vast and varied landscape can be conserved, once and for all. 

In the next video, Corey Heath, from the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and Sally Compton, the Executive Director of Think Wild, will highlight Skyline’s value as habitat and a migration corridor for Central Oregon’s iconic mule deer. 

Each subsequent installment promises to bring viewers further into the Save Skyline Forest conservation campaign, with appearances by students in Cascades Academy’s eco-club, Vámonos Outside athletes, business owner John Kish (aka Bend’s plant-queen entrepreneurial sweetheart, Fertile Liza), students from COCC’s GANAS Edúcate summer program, and Klamath spiritual leader Smokey Miller. 

"Serena's powerful narrative is a perfect kick-off to the 'Faces of Skyline Forest' series. These videos capture the strong sense of connection that local residents feel with Skyline Forest and the importance of preserving this immense forest for future generations. We invite folks to stay tuned as videos roll out this spring. You might even see someone you know sharing their Skyline story," said Alex Hardison, Central Oregon LandWatch’s Communications Manager.

All videos will be available to watch at SaveSkylineForest.org and on Central Oregon LandWatch's website and social media channels. People inspired to save Skyline Forest can join the movement by signing up and listing their volunteer interests. 

Central Oregon LandWatch has been at the forefront of defending our region’s waterways, wildlife, farms, and forests and promoting vibrant and sustainable cities and towns since 1986. As an environmental watchdog and land use advocate, LandWatch defends the natural richness that Central Oregonians cherish.