The Deschutes Soil and Water Conservation District (DSWCD) has embarked on an ambitious juniper removal project at Rimrock Ranch in Sisters, Oregon. This initiative, funded by a $125,000 grant from the State of Oregon through House Bill 2010, aims to mitigate the negative impacts of western juniper on water resources and overall ecological health.
The Challenge of Western Juniper
Western juniper, while native to Oregon, has expanded beyond its historical range due to various factors including fire suppression and land use changes. This expansion has led to several ecological challenges:
- Reduced water availability for other plant species
- Increased soil erosion
- Decreased biodiversity in affected areas
Our Approach
To address these issues, DSWCD has targeted 204 acres at Rimrock Ranch for juniper treatment and removal. This location was strategically chosen due to its importance in the local ecosystem:
- Rimrock Ranch is owned and managed by the Deschutes Land Trust (DLT)
- The Upper Deschutes Watershed Council (UDWC) has already initiated a comprehensive restoration project for the creek running through the property
Monitoring and Expected Outcomes
The DSWCD team will be closely monitoring the effects of this large-scale juniper thinning over the next 2-5 years. Our focus will be on observing changes in:
- Water resources of Whychus Creek
- Overall health of the Whychus Watershed
We anticipate that this project will lead to:
- Increased water availability for native plant species
- Improved habitat for local wildlife
- Enhanced overall ecological balance in the treated areas
Looking Ahead
This juniper removal project represents a crucial step in our ongoing efforts to maintain and improve the health of our local ecosystems. By carefully managing juniper populations, we aim to create a more resilient and diverse landscape that can better support the rich biodiversity of Central Oregon.
Stay tuned for updates as we track the progress and impacts of this important conservation initiative!
