Whychus Canyon Preserve

Deschutes Land Trust, a nonprofit dedicated to conserving and caring for the lands and waters of Central Oregon, recently completed a signage upgrade at Whychus Canyon Preserve to enhance the experience for all visitors. This project aimed to make the Preserve more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that visitors of all backgrounds, abilities, and experiences feel welcomed and informed. The new signs offer clear navigation, interpretive information about the Preserve’s rich ecology and history, and guidance on responsible recreation to help protect the land’s natural and cultural resources.

The updated signage shows the Land Trust’s commitment to stewardship and community engagement. Each sign was thoughtfully designed to be visually engaging, easy to read, and inclusive, incorporating universal design principles and bilingual content where appropriate. The Land Trust worked with graphic designer Olivia Edwards to develop the signage look and feel, combining artistic creativity with environmental education to bring the story of Whychus Canyon to life. Her designs beautifully capture the spirit of the Preserve while making the information approachable and engaging for all visitors.

Special thanks go to iZone Imaging for producing sign panels using their high-pressure laminate (HPL) technology. iZone was chosen for their consistent quality, precision, and customer service, which made them a trusted partner in executing a complex design vision. Their materials are built to withstand the wear and tear of high-traffic areas while maintaining rich colors and fine details that are critical for signage exposed to sun, wind, and seasonal weather shifts.

With these improvements, Deschutes Land Trust continues to foster a deeper connection between people and places, inviting more individuals to explore, learn, and care for the unique landscapes of Whychus Canyon Preserve.