As we look back on the past year, we at the West Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District want to share some of our new initiatives, continued partnerships, and successes toward our mission to improve air and water quality, wildlife habitats, and soil health. This annual report is about celebrating our key programs and the amazing community—our staff, partners and constituents, and board—who make it all happen.
We’ve made progress in all our focus areas: farms, forests, streams and natural areas, and community gardens. Here are some topics we are reporting on from this past year:
- Habitat Restoration: With climate change impacting native tree species, we’ve shifted our planting strategies to include more resilient species like white alder. This year, we planted 8,000 native trees and shrubs and are measuring how some help sequester carbon, highlighting the crucial role of trees in fighting climate change.
- Agriculture and Water Quality: Working with local farmers, we’re committed to keeping our watersheds clean while promoting sustainable practices, especially in our Strategic Implementation Area on Sauvie Island.
- Invasive tree pests: Oregon oak and Oregon ash trees are being negatively impacted by the arrival of the emerald ash borer (EAB) and the Mediterranean oak borer have been found in neighboring counties. We have been educating landowners in the District and partnering with state agencies to monitor for the pests by setting traps in the District.
- Invasive Aquatic Plants: We’re stepping up our efforts to combat aquatic invasive plants, working diligently to protect our water ecosystems from harmful invaders.
This year, we are excited to recognize some outstanding individuals in our District with our annual awards, celebrating their contributions to conservation and community engagement. Their spirit of stewardship truly drives our mission forward.
In this report you’ll find District and program financial details with easy-to-read graphs that reflect our commitment to transparency and responsible tax revenue management. These insights are crucial as we continue supporting important conservation projects and partners in our community.
This year has also brought a sense of loss to our District. We remember and honor Kim Peterson, our Zone 1 board director, who passed away this year. Her dedication to conservation has left a lasting impact, and her legacy will continue to inspire us.
Together, we’ve faced the past year with resilience and determination. As you dive into this report, we invite you to celebrate our accomplishments with us and imagine a sustainable future for our district. Thank you for your continued support and partnership in these essential endeavors.
In partnership,
Lynn Barlow
