The Beaver State

The American Beaver (Castor canadensis) was named Oregon state animal by the 1969 Legislature. Prized for its fur, the beaver was overtrapped by early settlers and eliminated from much of its original range. Through proper management and partial protection, the beaver has been reestablished in watercourses throughout the state and remains an important economic asset. The beaver has been referred to as "nature's engineer," and its dam-building activities are important to natural water flow and erosion control. Oregon is known as the "Beaver State" and Oregon State University's athletic teams are called the "Beavers."

Oregon

The state of Oregon is in the middle of a Renaissance. Their wine country is flourishing in a way it never has before. Although Oregon has been producing wine since the very early 20th century, it is only recently that their wines are being singled out by critics and enthusiasts.

Oregon is traditionally known for its outdoor pursuits such as skiing, fishing and hiking. Alpine skiing can be enjoyed year-round at a number of locations and the salmon fishing is some of the best in the nation. In fact, one mountain resort in Oregon is has been seen by millions of people worldwide. The Timberline Lodge on Mount Hood served as one of the exterior locations for Stanley Kubrick's film adaptation of The Shining. Visitors to Oregon could spend countless hours visiting locations from many well-known movies including National Lampoon's Animal House, Kindergarten Cop, Stand By Me and One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest.

Another worthy attraction in Oregon is the annual Oregon Shakespeare Festival held in Ashland. The scenic surroundings and proximity to the California border make this one of the largest tourist events in the state.

Oregon has something to recommend to everyone who comes to visit.