Photo courtesy of Yaquina Birders & Naturalists

Join Yaquina Birders & Naturalists for their upcoming Naturalist Presentation: In August 2024, the Willamette Valley Conservation Area was established as the 572nd refuge in the National Wildlife Refuge System.  Located in the heart of the Willamette Valley between Salem and Eugene, the acquisition of the Diamond Hill wetlands was the first purchase of the new Conservation Area. The 600-acre parcel is a step in a 10-year effort to permanently protect oak and prairie habitat for the benefit of five endangered species, two candidate species and numerous other plant and animal species of concern. The conservation area also provides habitat for migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, neotropical songbirds and iconic Oregon species such as the Western monarch butterfly, Western meadowlark and Oregon white oak. 

The Service worked closely with Tribal Nations, including the Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), and more. Speaker Jarod Jebousek will discuss the need, opportunity, process, challenges, and establishment our newest National Wildlife Refuge.
 
Jarod has worked at the Willamette Valley National Wildlife Refuge Complex for the past 24 years as a biologist in the Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program. His job allows him to collaborate with private, non-profit, and tribal landowners on voluntary habitat restoration projects throughout the Willamette Valley. He was born in Salem, grew up in the Willamette Valley on a farm, and attended Oregon State University. He lives with his wife and daughter in Corvallis.

MEETING LOCATION:

OSU Extension Lincoln County
1211 SE Bay Blvd
Newport, OR 97365