Restoring vital habitat: volunteers and partners work together at Phipps Meadow
Photographs by Matt Franklin
GRANT COUNTY, OR – At Blue Mountain Land Trust, we firmly believe in the power of grassroots efforts and community collaboration when it comes to environmental conservation. Together with the North Fork John Day Watershed Council (NFJDWC), we recently hosted our first volunteer stewardship work party at Phipps Meadow outside of Prairie City, OR. A group of volunteers worked together to install plant enclosures as part of a larger river restoration effort aimed at supporting vital habitat for salmon, steelhead, and more.
Phipps Meadow is an ecological haven, spanning an impressive 1.58 miles along the headwaters of the Middle Fork John Day River. The surrounding habitat plays a critical role in supporting the life cycles of over 200+ species.
Recognizing the need for riparian restoration efforts in the segment of the river that flows through Phipps Meadow, the group took a significant step forward to protect native vegetation with the goal: safeguard riparian vegetation against overgrazing by wild ungulates and trespassing cattle.
With support from the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, BMLT implemented a plan to install riparian plant enclosures along specific portions of the river. By doing so, BMLT created a protective barrier that fosters the growth and development of species like willows and aspen.
The volunteer work party brought together a dedicated group of individuals, including the BMLT Blues Crew, committed to making a positive impact on the environment. Participants engaged in various activities, including transporting enclosure materials, post-installment, and fastening fences together. The work environment posed its challenges, with uneven terrain, ample sunshine, and warm temperatures. Nonetheless, the volunteers embraced the conditions and persevered, knowing their efforts would contribute to a brighter future for Phipps Meadow.
We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the volunteers who selflessly joined the work party. Thanks for joining us on this restoration journey with enthusiasm, hard work, and commitment to making a difference. We firmly believe that small actions can create significant change. ■
🌲 Learn more about Phipps Meadow here.
