Projects

This project was implemented to address property owner concerns associated with run-off from her livestock operation. The site was surrounded by a large pond and wetlands. Prior to this project manure produced by the livestock was stockpiled uncovered within 100 feet of the wetland area and trucked off site twice a year.

The District worked with the property owner to apply for a small grant and create a plan that would improve water quality and cost effectively manage the manure. The solution included a composting structure that allows the manure to fully compost before being used as a source of nutrients that has increased garden and paddock production. Time required to clean the stable area has been reduced and made much easier during the wet, winter months. The property owner no longer has to worry about run-off from her property contaminating the adjacent wetlands.

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A small scale rancher was concerned about the effect his livestock were having on a spring fed creek that ran through his property and drained into Row River. Working with the Upper Willamette SWCD he was able to get a small grant. The funding assisted the rancher to set up exclusion fencing for the creek and springs, remove invasive species in the riparian area, plant native vegetation, cross fence, set up heavy use protection areas, and watering stations. Rotation of paddock use has reduced the footprint of this livestock operation and increased wildlife habitat utilization, as well as, address water quality concerns.

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A property owner contacted us about his concerns for the legacy of his land for future generations. Oak savannas and oak woodlands are the most imperiled habitats in the Willamette Valley due to fire suppression and land use conversion. His small grant funded trimming, thinning, mulching, and planting of oak trees. As well as the removal or girdling of other tree species. Invasive vegetation, such as, blackberry that displace and prevent native plant growth, were removed and native vegetation planted to reduce erosion. The property owner now has a lasting Oak savanna legacy to pass on for generations to come.

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​A land owner contacted us about lack of fish in a stream that ran through his property. Upper Willamette SWCD conducted a site visit and noted a lack of large woody debris in the stream as well as a lack of shade to keep the stream cool enough for fish. A small grant funded the removal of invasive species next to the stream and the planting of a diverse mix of native plants and trees. Logs were placed in strategic areas to slow the flow of water and reconnect the stream to its original floodplain. This reduced flooding, mud sediment, and increased the stream gravel bed formation that is essential to attract spawning salmon.

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