The US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) announced a proposal on September 29, 2023 to list the NW and SW pond turtles as threatened under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Throughout the West, these species are experiencing habitat fragmentation, predation by both native and non-native wildlife species as well as worsening drought conditions. In addition to this, a fungal disease which causes deadly lesions on the shell has been found in numerous populations (it has not been found in Yamhill County). Due to all of these threats, USFWS believes that action is required now to ensure that populations remain viable.

The District owns several properties with significant turtle populations. We have begun long term monitoring efforts and are working with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to gather species data and take action to protect these special creatures. USFWS is proposing a 4(d) rule to support conservation of the species through habitat restoration and predator control activities without violating the ESA. The District appreciates the latitude proposed by the Service to continue managing our populations. We are actively building habitat through a grant provided by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board at Muddy Valley Habitat Reserve and will continue this effort along with American bullfrog control which is a serious threat to all turtle populations.

Read the full USFWS press release for more information.