This cooperative agreement with the klamath watershed partnership (KWP) is strategically designed to address post wildfire restoration of uplands and instream habitats in the copperfield fire zone…

The U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service (DOI/FWS) Region 8 awarded a Cooperative Agreement totaling $294,975 to the Klamath Watershed Partnership (KWP) under the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program (CFDA 15.631), effective October 1, 2025, through September 30, 2030. This agreement supports post-wildfire restoration of uplands and instream habitats within the Copperfield Fire Zone of the Upper Klamath Basin in Oregon. KWP will deliver comprehensive habitat restoration services including native tree planting utilizing native seed mixes and instream restoration projects across multiple landowner properties identified through the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program.

The initiative leverages a ten-year landowner cooperative agreement structure to ensure sustained environmental benefits and will enhance ecological health through wildlife habitat restoration, improved water quality, and riparian enhancement. Restoration activities are designed to support federal trust species while generating secondary benefits including increased hunting and fishing opportunities, improved property values for ranching operations, and enhanced local economic opportunities. KWP's work will be executed in partnership with local landowners and stakeholders to achieve cost-effective habitat restoration that fosters ecosystem resilience in the Klamath Basin region.

This cooperative agreement with the klamath watershed partnership (KWP) is strategically designed to address post wildfire restoration of uplands and instream habitats in the copperfield fire zone of the upper klamath basin. To meet these objectives we will implement a multifaceted approach involving the planting of trees utilizing a native seed mix and executing instream restoration projects. Through the partners for fish and wildlife program we have identified numerous landowners eager to engage in habitat restoration efforts. This initiative aims to enhance the ecological health of the land and region while also improving financial viability for ranching operations property values. Additionally IT stands to increase opportunities for recreational activities such as hunting and fishing which can further contribute to local economies. By restoring these lands and habitats we hope to foster a resilient ecosystem that supports both wildlife and the livelihoods of those who depend on the land and clean water. These restoration activities will enhance wildlife habitats leading to increased hunting and fishing opportunities while also promoting clean water. The commitment of landowners to a ten year agreement ensures that their investments provide lasting environmental benefits boosting property values and fostering sustainable economic growth.