The objectives of this project focus on improving river function, water quality and wildlife habitat and value along the sprague river

Award Details:

• Funding Agency: U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), Region 8
• Federal Grant Program: Partners for Fish and Wildlife (CFDA 15.631)
• Awardee: Trout Unlimited, Inc.
• Award Amount: $247,959.00
• Award Date: October 1, 2025
• Project Period: October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2030
• Location: Beatty, Oregon

Trout Unlimited, Inc. will deliver habitat restoration and stream management services along the Sprague River in Oregon. The primary products include installation of approximately three miles of riparian fencing and two hardened cattle water gap crossings designed to address streambank erosion, prevent further land loss, and support the landowner's cattle operations. These infrastructure improvements will be implemented in accordance with Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) standards under an existing Wetland Reserve Easement on the property, with final design approval provided by NRCS.

The project advances multiple conservation objectives by improving river function, water quality, and fish and wildlife habitat while supporting long-term ranch productivity. Implementation prioritizes local economic engagement through hiring of local contractors and promotion of private landowner participation in habitat management. The initiative aligns with the Fish and Wildlife Act of 1956 and the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Act, delivering tangible benefits to federal trust species and aquatic ecosystems in the Klamath Basin while fostering community-based conservation partnerships.

IT aligns with nrcs standards due to the wetland reserve easement on the property, and final design approval will be provided by nrcs. The project aims to assist the landowner operations outcomes while delivering economic benefits to the community. Approximately three miles of fencing will be installed, along with two hardened cattle crossings (water gaps).these installations are designed to prevent further loss of the landowners land due to stream bank erosion. We aim to help remedy the erosion issues thus supporting the rancher S cattle operations by increasing long term production potential while also improving water quality and fish and wildlife habitat in the sprague river. This project will also enhance the local economy and encourages private landowner participation and promotes the hiring of local contractors for implementation, thereby fostering economic growth within the klamath basin. This initiative adheres to the fish and wildlife act of 1956 and the partners for fish and wildlife act, which authorize the U.S. Fish and wildlife service to assist private landowners in habitat management. IT also aligns with president trump S executive orders 13855 and 13834, which emphasize community partnerships and effective resource management. By prioritizing collaboration with local stakeholders, this project advances economic opportunities for community members and landowners while enhancing responsible land stewardship.