EXTENSION COLLABORATION RESULTS IN NATURAL RESOURCE IMPROVEMENT
Natural Resources/Aquaculture
Cory Parsons
Livestock/Natural Resources Agent
Oregon State University
BAKER CITY
Abstract
C.T. Parsons*1, B.A. Riggs2, T.L. Deboodt2; Oregon State University Extension Service, Baker County, Baker City, OR, U.S.1, Oregon State University Extension Service, Crook County, Prineville, OR, U.S.2\r\n\r\n In 1993, the Oregon Legislature charged the Oregon Department of Agriculture with enforcement responsibilities of agricultural sources of nonpoint source pollution. This legislation caused an evolution of agricultural water quality planning and enforcement that culminated in 2009. Water quality regulations have sparked interest among resource mangers as they relate to livestock production among producers, government and non-profit funding agencies and public land agencies. As a result, Oregon State University Extension Service (OSUES) worked cooperatively with Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD) to provide educational workshops (Cows and Creeks (CC)) over a seven year period to improve collaboration among stakeholders (governmental agencies, non-profits and landowners) and reinforce scientific-based decision making to improve management and regulatory oversight of natural resources, and water quality. Evaluation of the program was conducted via survey (return rate of 35%, 76 respondents). Respondents stated relationships improved with government agencies (49%), landowners/livestock owners (45%), and non-profit organizations (38%). A total of 21 (42%) respondents indicated they had utilized cost-share programs with the financial and/or technical aid from various agencies. This program secured funding of more than $1,000,000 of grant and personal contributions to make improvements or management changes to improve riparian function. Seventy percent of the respondents that received funding believed the projects they completed resulted in a return on investment as indicated by improved livestock performance, recreational opportunities, habitat for wildlife and fisheries, water quality standards and/or farm/hay production. Improvements observed by the respondents included cow/calf performance (24%), riparian vegetation (42%), fish habitat (20%), bank stabilization (36%), and stream flow (18%).
Authors: Parsons, C.
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Parsons, C. Livestock/natural Resources Agent, Oregon State University, Oregon, 97814