Jim Witty Trail in The Badlands of Central Oregon

We are petitioning to suggest that the BLM name a trail in the new Oregon Badlands Wilderness after Jim Witty as a part of your upcoming Wilderness Management Plan.  Jim was the outdoors writer for the Bulletin in Bend, OR for many years and an avid explorer of the Badlands.  Jim passed away on November 17, 2008 and we can think of no better tribute to the deep affection he felt for the Badlands than to name a trail in his memory. 

Jim hiked in the Badlands the day before he died.  His enthusiasm for the natural world came out in every word he wrote, but as you will likely gather from the stories we have included with this letter, Jim had a special place in his heart for the Badlands. 

Jim's friends and family have identified a trail that was especially dear to Jim which has not yet been inventoried by the BLM.  We would suggest that this trail be named the "Jim Witty Trail" and placed on official maps for the new Wilderness area.    Jim loved to share this special place with others, and it would mean so much to all of us who knew and loved Jim to have this trail named in his memory.

Please sign our online petition and thank you for your ongoing support!

Please visit www.outings.webs.com to get updates on Jim's book which is scheduled to be published by November 2009.

Also, please visit Jim's online memorial site at www.tribute.perfectmemorials.com/jim-witty