The waterfall drops 92 feet into a pool surrounded by ferns, moss-covered rocks and a basalt cliff
The agency has not yet announced a final management plan for the property. The state is expected to continue assessing how the land should be developed and maintained while working towards the completion of the purchase.
The purchase is expected to close around the end of 2026, according to Oregon State Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). An earlier proposal reported by Oregon Public Broadcasting included $2.1 million for the acquisition. That proposal covered $600,000 for the Abiqua Falls property and $1.4 million for another 160 acres of nearby rapids and forestland owned by timber company Weyerhaeuser.
The Abbey Foundation said it was handing over responsibility for the site with the hope that it would remain accessible for future generations. “It is with deep gratitude and hope for the future that the Abbey Foundation of Oregon entrusts the stewardship and legacy of Abiqua Falls to the state of Oregon,” said Dr Amanda Staggenborg, director of communications for Mount Angel Abbey. “The beauty of Abiqua Falls will be enjoyed by generations of Oregonians and all those who love Oregon’s natural wonders,” she added. House Majority Leader Ben Bowman said the purchase would allow future generations to visit the waterfall themselves. “Today, we are making sure that our children and grandchildren inherit not just stories about Abiqua Falls, but the ability to stand there themselves,” Bowman said. Earlier in March, lawmakers had said several details still needed to be settled, including which state agency would manage the property and how public access would work. OPRD director Lisa Sumption said owning a natural site also means taking on the work needed to maintain it. It takes continuous staff, time and money for us to bring a property like this up to state park standards and keep it there,” Sumption said.
The agreement now moves the property towards public ownership. “This place should belong to all of us. Oregon owes a debt of gratitude to the Abbey Foundation for their century of stewardship, and their partnership in ensuring public access forever,” he added. The move followed months of discussion about the future of the waterfall after its sale was proposed. “Abiqua Falls is a great example that parks are not just nature.