Columbia Gorge Discovery Center & Museum and Gorge Ecology Outdoors have announced a merger of the two Gorge-based nonprofit organizations.  In early 2023, the Discovery Center assumed oversight responsibilities and management of all GEO programs, and its organizational and financial responsibilities.   Discovery Center Executive Director Laura Matzer said with GEO programs now part of their organizations, their goal is to give GEO’s vital science-based outdoor programming a strong base for growth, longevity, and visibility.  GEO Board Chair Dan Harkenrider, said the merger was a natural fit, after the two worked in partnership for 15 years to deliver the Gorge Explorers program.  When GEO’s Executive Director, Drew Eastman, announced his intention to step down, GEO’s Board felt that the time might be right to look for increased long-term support and stability in the form of consolidation with their longtime partner.