Forest Health & Wildfire Risk Reduction

What We Do: Forest Health and Wildfire Risk Reduction, Forest Management Plans, Wildfire Recovery Support

The forests of our county are a defining feature of the landscape, providing habitat, clean air, and recreation for residents and visitors alike. Wildfire risk is an increasingly urgent concern as drought, insects, and decades of fire suppression have left forests overstocked and vulnerable. We work to reduce hazardous fuels, restore forest health, and build resilience across the landscape. By connecting landowners with resources, technical assistance, and funding, we help create landscapes that can better withstand and recover from fire.

SWAP Grant Opportunities

Deschutes Soil and Water Assistance Programs (SWAPs) support private landowners with Irrigation Water Conservation and efficiency improvements as well as forest health and wildfire risk reduction projects. These grants also increase conservation benefits for residents of Deschutes County through water conservation, improved forest health, reduced wildfire risk to communities, and enhanced ecosystem health.

This program provides reliable funding for private landowners to implement on the ground conservation projects that benefit their land and communities.

Post-Wildfire Soil and Water Assistance Program (SWAP)

A post-wildfire emergency financial assistance program to help private landowners with immediate post-wildfire recovery on natural and working lands. Landowners within a wildfire footprint will have the opportunity to apply for funding.

Forest Resiliency and Fuels Reduction Soil and Water Assistance Program (SWAP)

A forest resiliency and fuels reduction program to help private forest landowners improve forest stand conditions and increase wildfire resiliency beyond the 100-ft zone of defensible space. All forest landowners of Deschutes County are eligible to apply.

The Deschutes SWCD is working with United States Forest Services (USFS), National Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF), Deschutes County, Walker Range FPA, and local stakeholders and residents in southern Deschutes County addressing threats to our timber resource and local communities.

Tools & Partner Resources

Project Wildfire

Project Wildfire is the result of a Deschutes County effort to create long-term wildfire mitigation strategies and provide for a disaster-resistant community. Created by Deschutes County Ordinance 8.24.010, Project Wildfire is the community organization that facilitates, educates, disseminates and maximizes community efforts toward effective fire planning and mitigation.

Oregon Forests Resources Institute

In 1991, the Oregon Legislature created the Oregon Forest Resources Institute (OFRI) to support and enhance Oregon’s forest products industry. The state agency provides forest and forest management education programs for the general public, K-12 teachers and students, and forest landowners.

OSU Ext. Fire Program

OSU Extension Service’s Fire Program knows preparing our communities and landscapes for wildfire is an effort that involves many sectors of society. Browse their resources for every type of resident; from public land managers, to emergency response agencies, to each and every person living in Oregon

Read Our Blog

  • Juniper Management Funding Application

    Published On: November 7th, 2025

    limited funding available for Juniper management on private lands through

  • pile of wood

    Flat Fire Recovery Assistance Program

    Published On: September 30th, 2025

    The Flat Fire left lasting impacts on private lands

  • Deschutes SWCD Offering Technical Assistance

    Protecting Your Home and Community from Wildfire: Tips for Deschutes County Residents

    Published On: September 19th, 2024

    At the Deschutes Soil and Water Conservation District (DSWCD),