Watershed Council Liaison Position

This project provided funding for a position providing technical support on fish population and fish habitat needs, expert advice on watershed restoration activities in support of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds. The position aided watershed councils with development of watershed assessments, action plans, project planning, information on sources of potential funding, coordination with permitting and other agencies, and project implementation. Additionally, this position assisted in district fish monitoring projects, habitat protection, watershed education and habitat enhancement projects.

This project benefits the aquatic resource by providing accurate and expert information and advice regarding the planning and implementation of aquatic restoration projects. This technical advice allows watershed based groups to identify, prioritize and implement effective restoration projects designed to benefit anadromous and resident salmonids. This technical assistance increases the probability that projects will be funded.

This position also benefits the aquatic resource through: 1)environmental education - an informed and educated public will be better able to participate in the local land use planning issues such as the adoption of riparian setback laws; 2)monitoring fish populations enabling us to measure trends and evaluate management strategies and restoration projects; 3) working with the public and other agencies to minimize human impacts to aquatic habitat caused by urbanization.