Oregon

'The Beaver State'
Once the beaver was an animal which could be met all over the place. Because of its fur the beaver was a desired hunting object and the population shrinked rapidly and fast. After it became clear that beavers create also important habitats for other species like birds, frogs, etc., beavers became protected and their population grew again. In 1969 it became the state animal in recognition of its ecological relevance and the state's nickname derived from the dam-architect as well.
Oregon has a diverse landscape that ranges from a beautiful Pacific Coast, pristine forests, rivers and valleys to mountains up to 3.426 m / 11.240 ft (Mt. Hood). The Cascade Mountain Range divides the state into two climatical different zones. West of the mountains the weather is determined by the Pacific JetStream and therefore milder and more moderate than on the east side of the mountain range where harsh weather conditions especially during winter time made early settlement difficult.
Oregon's largest city is Portland, the 'city of roses'. The capital is Salem.