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Oregon Lawmakers Approve $2M to Buy Privately Owned Waterfall
Abiqua Falls, a 92-foot waterfall framed by basalt columns, was listed for sale on Redfin.
Mar. 14, 2026 at 9:05pm
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The State of Oregon is set to purchase Abiqua Falls, a 92-foot waterfall and surrounding 40 acres of land that had been privately owned for over a century and recently listed for sale on the real estate site Redfin. State lawmakers secured about $2 million to buy and protect the falls and the land around it, ensuring public access to the natural wonder.
Why it matters
The purchase of Abiqua Falls preserves an iconic natural landmark in Oregon that was at risk of being acquired by a private entity and potentially limiting public access. This aligns with the state's tradition of protecting special places for future generations, championed by former Governor Tom McCall.
The details
Abiqua Falls, framed by towering basalt columns and bright green moss, has been privately owned for over a century. Last month, the owner listed the waterfall and surrounding 40 acres on Redfin, prompting concerns that a private buyer could limit public access. State Senator Fred Girod led a bipartisan effort to secure $2 million to purchase the falls and surrounding land, ensuring it remains open to the public.
- Last month, the owner of Abiqua Falls listed the property for sale on Redfin.
- The legislative bill to fund the $2 million purchase awaits the signature of Governor Tina Kotek.
The players
Fred Girod
A state senator whose district includes Abiqua Falls, he led the bipartisan effort to secure funding to purchase the waterfall and surrounding land.
Tom McCall
The former governor of Oregon from 1967-1975, he was known for championing public access to natural areas, which inspired the state's tradition of protecting special places.
Tina Kotek
The current governor of Oregon, her office is expected to sign the legislative bill to fund the $2 million purchase of Abiqua Falls.
Abbey Foundation of Oregon
The nonprofit fund-raising arm of Mount Angel Abbey and Seminary, which has owned Abiqua Falls and the surrounding 40 acres for over a century.
What they’re saying
“Certain places should be set aside for generations to come. I felt strongly that Abiqua Falls belonged in that category.”
— Fred Girod, State Senator
“This was the most fun thing I've done in 20 years. Preserving something in nature, in perpetuity, is probably the best thing I've done.”
— Fred Girod, State Senator
What’s next
The legislative bill to fund the $2 million purchase of Abiqua Falls awaits the signature of Governor Tina Kotek, after which the state will officially acquire the waterfall and surrounding land.
The takeaway
Oregon's purchase of the privately-owned Abiqua Falls demonstrates the state's commitment to preserving iconic natural landmarks and ensuring public access to these special places, upholding a legacy championed by former Governor Tom McCall.
