Our project directly benefits multiple habitat and species identified in the 2016 oregon conservation strategy (OCS) as priorities with the columbia plateau ecoregion

The U.S. Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service, Region 1, awarded $174,380 to the State of Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) under the Wildlife Restoration and Basic Hunter Education and Safety program (CFDA 15.611) on July 1, 2025, with completion expected June 30, 2026. This formula grant funds habitat protection and enhancement, invasive species control, and recreational access and maintenance activities at the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area in Tygh Valley, Oregon.

The project delivers conservation services aligned with Oregon's 2016 Conservation Strategy priorities within the Columbia Plateau Ecoregion. Key deliverables include restoration of sage and riparian habitats, early detection and suppression of invasive weeds, maintenance of in-channel watershed function, and continued operation and maintenance of the Lower Deschutes Wildlife Area to support fishing and hunting access. These activities directly benefit multiple habitat types and species identified as conservation priorities in the state strategy.

The lower deschutes as a whole is identified as a conservation opportunity area. Area management focuses on the priorities outlined within the OCS, such as restoration of sage and riparian habitats, early detection and suppression of invasive weeds, and maintaining in-channel watershed function. The purpose of this project is to protect and enhance the habitats, control invasive species, provide fishing and hunting access, and operate and maintain the lower deschutes WA.