This chapter describes the many types of open space and natural features that add to the quality of life for our residents. Public park land and natural areas, an important component of Bend’s quality of life, are mentioned briefly in this chapter as a type of open space. The public parks and recreation programs in the urban area are described in more detail in Chapter 3, Community Connections. Other related topics that also contribute to our quality of life are covered in the Chapter 9, Community Appearance and Chapter 10, Natural Forces.

That the settlement of Bend is here at all is a result of dynamic natural forces that shaped the landscape. The lava flows and volcanic ash, in place before the elk and cougar roamed the area, form the canyon walls and punctuate the urban area with rock outcroppings, ridges, and cinder cones. The Deschutes River, and smaller streams that have long since disappeared, cut through the lava and ash, and brought life to the land. Animal and plant species that adapted to the dry summers and snowy winters of Central Oregon over hundreds of thousands of years still grace the urban area today.

A city is the sum of physical, biological, and historical processes that shape the social values and image of the community. The natural features such as the rock outcroppings, native vegetation, the river, and wildlife frame Bend’s special character and sense of place. Which natural features have some intrinsic value, and how much land should be preserved, are questions that Bend area residents wrestle with as they seek to balance the value of growth and the value of preserving natural areas.

As regional and national developers “discover” Bend they seek to bring their national look to the urban area. The city and county will need to be stronger in reflecting the community’s desire to incorporate natural features and native materials into commercial and residential development.