Cooperative Agreement F24AC02038

This $807,760 Cooperative Agreement awarded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service under the Partners for Fish and Wildlife program (CFDA 15.631) supports the conversion of 32 acres of cattle grazing pasture into wetland habitat on Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon. The primary goal is to create a conducive environment for rearing juvenile endangered Lost River and Shortnose sucker fish, improving the recovery and sustainability of these species. Key activities include land conversion, native wetland vegetation planting, water management, juvenile sucker fish rearing, and ongoing monitoring and evaluation. The project also includes community engagement to highlight the importance of wetland restoration and sucker fish conservation. Expected outcomes include establishing a long-term functional wetland habitat, enhancing endangered fish populations, improving water quality and vegetation, and increasing community involvement in conservation initiatives. This 5-year project, beginning in August 2024, will be implemented directly by the awardee, Rusted Gate Farm, a non-profit organization.