The establishment of the Willamette Valley Conservation Area is a true testament to the power of collaboration. This effort brought together a diverse group of stakeholders—federal and state agencies, local communities, conservation organizations, private landowners, and tribal nations—working toward a shared goal of protecting and conserving this vital landscape.
A key partner in these efforts is the Willamette Valley Oak and Prairie Cooperative, whose mission is to protect, restore, and maintain a resilient network of oak and prairie habitats. Their guidance has been instrumental in shaping the conservation strategies for the area. Tribal nations, including the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde, the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, and the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, also played an essential role. They contributed traditional ecological knowledge, helping to shape conservation practices that honor both the ecological and cultural significance of the land.
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service engaged with the public throughout the planning process, including public meetings and comment periods, which saw strong support for establishing the conservation area. This collaborative approach reflects a community-driven commitment to conserving the region’s natural beauty and biodiversity.
Conservation and Future Plans
While the Willamette Valley Conservation Area is a significant new addition to the Refuge System, it is currently in the early stages of development. The first land acquisition within the conservation area, the 600-acre Diamond Hill wetlands, marks the beginning of a broader effort to protect and manage this landscape over the next decade. At this time, the area is not yet open to public visitation as plans and infrastructure for public access are still being developed.
