Compliance in the Oregon Coast

Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) staff contacted agricultural operators to offer education and assistance where riparian areas do not function properly as a result of agricultural activities. The project resulted in restoration of riparian areas to improve habitat and water quality. ODA staff coordinated with local Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCDs) to offer restoration design and implementation technical support and funding.

This project addressed several limiting factors in the Oregon Coast Coho Conservation Plan, including stream complexity and water quality. Agricultural land management affects stream complexity and water quality through impacts to riparian vegetation and associated high water temperatures, and runoff of pollutants including nutrients, pesticides, and sediment. The recovery plan identifies the Agricultural Water Quality Program as a key strategy to address these issues in agriculture.

Goal is to achieve water quality standards to ensure that the Oregon Coast ESU can support healthy populations of salmonids and other aquatic life. Purpose is to work with agricultural operators, SWCDs, and other stakeholders to improve riparian conditions and water quality. ODA staff contact agricultural operators to review riparian functions, and coordinate with federal, state and local partners to help ensure riparian restoration activities are initiated to meet water quality and fish management goals. Expected benefits include improved riparian condition and reduction in thermal loading to rivers.