How did Oregon become a hot spot for hungry farm-to-table diners and a world-class destination for wine lovers everywhere? It all starts with our dirt. Starting with Jory soil (our proud state soil, designated in 2011), this reddish volcanic soil is rich in clay content, iron and other nutrients, perfect for growing those famous pinot-noir grapes and producing their earthy flavor profiles. (Fun fact: Oregon ranks No. 1 in the nation in Christmas tree production and a majority of them are grown on Jory soil.)...

Oregon is a true water-lovers’ paradise. Some of us like to swim, paddle or fish in Oregon’s lakes and rivers; some of us prefer to lounge in an Adirondack and gaze at the ocean for hours on end. (We don’t judge.) Our water is our life source. When it comes to rivers (more than 70 of which are designated as Wild and Scenic), these waterways offer more than just soul-soothing views and sought-after campsites. Flowing through cities, canyons and forests, Oregon’s rivers provide key habitats...