In 2007, I took a leap off the Young River Falls in Astoria, Oregon, and paid a heavy price. The fall shattered bones throughout my body and left an indelible mark on my life and our community. It was a miracle I survived, but many others have not been as fortunate. The falls have claimed lives, impacted numerous families, and involved brave first responders more times than should be necessary. Like any tragic incident, it deeply etched itself into our collective memory.

Young River Falls is undeniably a beautiful place that draws visitors from all around. Yet, the danger it poses is equally undeniable. Despite existing safety signs, accidents continue to occur. They either go unnoticed, get damaged, or simply fail to convey the real peril of these waters. The current approach, relying solely on signage, is inadequate and hasn’t prevented these tragedies.

Our proposal is simple yet profound: install a Safety Memorial Sign at Young River Falls. This memorial would not only serve as a tribute to those who lost their lives but also act as a powerful reminder to others of the real risks involved. The sign will bear the names of those who have perished there, with blank spaces for future names—a stark testament to the gravity of visiting this site recklessly. The day after another live was claimed, may Kevin rest in peace. My dad visited a the falls, this was only the 2nd time he has been there in 18 years. He almost lost his daughter that day. As many others have lost family members. We simply must act so more families don't have to go through what we went through and worse. The people playing in the water had no idea just how dangerous it was or that someone died the day before. 

We believe such a memorial will offer a somber reflection that numbers and words on typical signage fail to provide. Seeing those names could make thrill-seekers pause and reconsider their choices. It could transform a statistic into something heartbreakingly tangible and human.

This memorial can serve as both a tribute and a warning—encouraging safer enjoyment of one of our area's natural treasures. Let's prevent further unnecessary loss of life by ensuring everyone fully comprehends the risks. Please join us in lobbying for the safety of all visitors by advocating for the establishment of a commemorative memorial at Young River Falls.

Sign this petition to honor those we've lost and protect future generations from the same fate. Let’s not just count those who we've lost; let’s remember them in a way that can save lives.

When it's time to come together this community always surpasses my expectations. When it's time to make change. We don't hesitate but work together to do what is necessary.  This is necessary and together I know we will make it happened. Quickly, so that no more lives will be lost this summer.