By Amie Loop-Frison

Yamhill Soil & Water Conservation District (YSWCD) thrives upon partnerships so we were very excited when we were asked to be a part of a new partnership between Pheasants Forever, Pacific Birds Habitat Joint Venture and the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS). The partnership received funding from NRCS to hire a full-time staff member to be housed in the YSWCD office. The Habitat Conservation Specialist will provide uplift and expansion of the current Oregon white oak and upland prairie work that is occurring here in the county. Think of it as supersizing our oak program! They will support USDA Farm Bill programs, seek out additional grants and work within the many oak partnerships in the Willamette Valley.

We are pleased to announce and welcome Alex Worth as the new Habitat Conservation Specialist for Yamhill County! Alex grew up in McMinnville and recently completed his Masters of Conservation Leadership degree at Colorado State University. He is excited to come back home to Yamhill County and we’re looking forward to having him be part of our team.  Keep an eye on our website for supersized oak information and new opportunities to support and enhance this important native habitat.