Protecting Southern Oregon’s Resources from Invasive Species

DATE: October 4, 2024

This event, hosted by the Applegate Partnership & Watershed Council (APWC), aims to highlight the significant work being done to combat invasive species in our area and identify challenges that will hinder its progress in the future.

This event will:

• Showcase the impacts that invasive species have on our landscape and communities, such as blackberries spreading the Almeda Fire through Talent and Phoenix.

• Highlight the productive partnerships and diversified funding sources that are required to address the threats posed by invasive species to the local ecology, economy, and lifestyle.

• Provide a platform for discussing current grant-funded projects and education efforts related to invasive species mitigation.

• Identify and discuss the challenges and future needs for invasive species management in our region.

• Provide a unique opportunity to hear from and interact with experts in the field as well as experience first-hand the ongoing invasive species management challenges that are unique to southern Oregon.

Collaborators present at the event include local students who are active in APWC’s Grow Youth Program and representatives from APWC, the Bureau of Land Management, the Oregon Invasive Species Council (OISC), the Cooperative Weed Management Area, the Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District, the Oregon Department of Agriculture, the Freshwater Trust, and others.

This event's target audience includes local print and TV media members, elected officials, other decision-makers, and local stakeholders. It will feature a brief presentation of ongoing projects and educational initiatives, a site tour, and a question-and-answer session. We will also release a press release and have a photo op for the media to help publicize the important work being done in our community.

The Provolt Recreation Site is a day-use area located at 14171 Williams Hwy. It is situated along the Applegate River and is managed by the BLM. It was once a seed orchard used for Douglas-fir reforestation but is now home to multi-use trails and ongoing restoration efforts. Learn more about the restoration Partnership at the Provolt Recreation Site work undertaken by the APWC here.