Bend protesters urge action to end Malheur occupation

Just like water off a duck’s back, pouring rain didn’t drown out the cheers as roughly 250 people gathered in downtown Bend Tuesday, carrying signs and protesting the occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

Oregon Wild organized a series of protests around the state, partnering with the Bend-based Oregon Natural Desert Association for Bend’s rally. Among speakers at Riverfront Plaza were Harney County resident Julie Weikel and Sisters naturalist Jim Anderson.

One supporter said he drove more than 120 miles to participate.

“I came from Summer Lake to show my support,” Ed Schmidt said. “I’ve been out to Malheur many times as a bird watcher and hiker.”

Environmental and wildlife groups across the state have condemned the occupation that started Jan. 2. A small armed group has overtaken the refuge headquarters, saying the buildings and lands belong to local ranchers.

Protesters and speakers alike listed protection of birds and wildlife as well as love for public lands as reasons they held or joined in the rally. Many also said they’re taking a stand against illegal activity.

“I think they are terrorists who are holding everyone hostage with their guns,” Bend resident Levanah Skye. “I want our federal government to come in and do something — this is our land, and I want them to defend me.”

It was a sentiment echoed among others at the rally, and raised question raised by one speaker.

With microphone in hand, Jim Anderson wondered aloud how things might have been different had the militants worn turbans on their head. The crowd cheered.

Bend resident Linda Knowlton said she is disappointed police have not intervened.

“It’s a bad precedent for people who want to take this sort of illegal action,” Knowlton said.

So far, militia members have largely been left alone, other than swarms of media documenting their every move. One person was recently arrested for stealing federal vehicles from the refuge. There have also been some citations.

Law enforcement officials have repeatedly said they’re hoping and waiting for a peaceful solution. The FBI, which is the lead agency on the case, hasn’t publicly commented on the occupation.

Rally speaker Julie Weikel drove to Bend from her home in Harney County.

“I’ve lived in five Oregon counties. I’ve never locked my door until last Monday night,” Weikel said. “I do feel invaded.”

In the crowd was a Bend resident who said he spent 15 years as a biologist at the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge. Gary Ivey now is the board president for the Friends of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge.

He said he’s worried the occupation will have impacts far more devastating than some might realize.

“What’s going to happen when spring migration starts and there’s nobody there to manage the dams?” Ivey asked. “There could be major flooding that could cause millions of dollars of damage.”

Former Oregon first lady Cylvia Hayes was also at the rally. She told KTVZ she was encouraged to see such a large turnout for an important issue.

Others at the rally told NewsChannel 21Hayes was there on assignment for her position as a staff writer for a new Bend magazine.