Oregon's Rich Lands, Waters, and Wildlife
Oregon is a 96,000 square-mile melting pot of ecological regions and geological formations. The state’s varied geology, soil and climate support a unique collection of species and habitats which, in turn, help define the state’s culture and economy.
Oregon’s prosperity depends on the use of land for agriculture, timber, industry, and ranching and outdoor recreation. These working landscapes, along with wilderness and other natural areas, provide the rich mix of habitat that supports Oregon’s fish and wildlife.
Oregon's Planning Approach
The Oregon Conservation Strategy provides a non-regulatory, statewide approach to species and habitat conservation. The Strategy provides a long-term blueprint for all Oregonians to help conservation our natural resources in a manner that will maintain or improve those resources today and for future generations.
The Oregon Conservation Strategy contains information on species and habitats most in need of conservation action, the issues and problems affecting them, and key conservation actions, research and monitoring needed to address those issues. It also presents ideas for expanding and improving voluntary conservation tools, briefly discusses education, tourism and other ways to engage citizens in conservation, and describes many successful cooperative conservation projects.
In ActionHolding the line on invasive mussels in Oregon
The Oregon Conservation Strategy identifies invasive species as a key issue of concern. Today, Oregon is attempting to hold the line against destructive quagga mussels that are spreading across the country. States infested with invasive mussels spend millions of dollars each year to keep water systems unclogged and ecosystems balanced.
Experts believe if quaggas enter Oregon, it will be by boat or houseboat so the Marine Board, Department of Fish and Wildlife, invasive species groups, and others are mobilizing resources to protect Oregon’s freshwaters from what would be a costly management effort. Workshops, boat washing demonstrations, and media events are being used to spread the word. Recently, monitoring efforts paid off with the early detection and quarantine of a quagga-infested boat. Prevention, early detection and swift action will help protect native fish and wildlife from invasive species, before more costly measures are needed.
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Conservation Strategy & State Wildlife Grants Coordinator
