NRCS in Oregon

It would appear that everywhere you look, the USDA is bending over backwards to improve wildlife conditions. For example, Let's take a look at just one example going on in Oregon. Here is Tracy Robillard, Public Affairs Officer Natural Resources  Conservation Service. "The USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service announced funding available to crop producers in Wasco County's White River and Tygh Creek watersheds to increase irrigation efficiency and stream flows on their land while also improving salmon habitat. Interested farmers should submit applications to the USDA The Dalles Service Center by January 15 to be considered for financial assistance.  

The funding will be used to remove six fish passage barriers in the White River and Tygh Creek watersheds to increase access for salmon and other fish species. Conservation practices include installing irrigation pipeline and irrigation sprinkler systems, irrigation water management, building structures for water control, water wells, and more. The goal of this project, called the White River White River Irrigation Efficiency and Stream Flow Restoration Project, is to improve irrigation efficiency to save 7,300 acre feet of water annually and restore flows in 21.9 miles of stream. These conservation practices will also help to improve water quality.

 

"NRCS is partnering with the Wasco County Soil and Water Conservation District and other local, state, and federal partners to leverage funding for this much-needed project," said Carly Heron, NRCS district conservationist for Wasco County. "By working together on public and private lands in these watersheds, we will increase stream flow, water quality and fish habitat for many species, including federally-listed steelhead, Chinook salmon, Coho salmon and sockeye salmon."