Volcanoes of the Cascades Oregon Wild 2020-05-07 | What do Mt. Hood, the Three Sisters, and Mt. Shasta all have in common? They are all volcanoes! If you've ever wondered how they got here, why they're all (mostly) in a line, or why they look the way they do, this webcast is for you. Hal Wershow, Assistant Professor of Geology at Central Oregon Community College, presents a brief (and accessible) introduction to the Cascade Volcanoes. Ochoco Mountains Coordinator Jamie Dawson also presents on Oregon Wild's efforts to protect the Cascades and the incredibly important habitat that surrounds them.
The Hidden Toll of Roads: Protecting Wildlife In A World of Highways Oregon Wild 2024-09-30 | 🚨 Did you know that over a million animals are killed by vehicles every single day in the U.S.? 🚨With wildlife already facing enormous challenges like habitat loss, poaching, and competition from invasive species, the staggering number of animals lost to road collisions is pushing conservationists and scientists to find innovative solutions. That's where road ecology comes in!In this eye-opening webcast, award-winning author Ben Goldfarb his latest book, Crossings: How Road Ecology is Shaping the Future of Our Planet. We explore the far-reaching ecological damage caused by transportation and how we can redesign our infrastructure to create a safer world for wildlife and humans alike.From wildlife overpasses for mountain lions to tunnels for toads and removing harmful logging roads, the solutions are as inspiring as they are necessary.✨ About Ben Goldfarb ✨ Ben is a renowned environmental journalist whose work has appeared in National Geographic, The Atlantic, and Smithsonian Magazine. His books include Crossings (named one of the best books of 2023 by The New York Times) and Eager: The Surprising, Secret Life of Beavers and Why They Matter (winner of the PEN/E.O. Wilson Literary Science Writing Award).
Our Forests and the Farm Bill with Congresswoman Andrea Salinas Oregon Wild 2024-09-19 | The Farm Bill, federal legislation that is reauthorized and updated every five years, is currently making its way through Congress. This legislation is complex and vitally important, touching on numerous programs, policies, and landscapes across the US and Oregon, including our forests.In recent decades, this bill has been used to cram harmful policies through Congress, like expanding loopholes for commercial logging, undermining endangered species protections, and rolling back bedrock environmental and public accountability laws. While the Farm Bill can prop up harmful forest practices, it also has the potential to support forest health, clean our drinking water, and take action to slow climate change.A good Farm Bill can benefit everyone, while a bad Farm Bill can exploit our environment and communities to enrich a select few individuals and industries.In this presentation, hear from Congresswoman Andrea Salinas on the state of the upcoming Farm Bill, what is in it, and how you can influence this critical legislation to make Oregon's forests, waterways, and communities stronger, more resilient, and healthier.
Webcast: Restoring Oregons Rivers Oregon Wild 2024-09-09 | Explore the rich natural history and ecology of Oregon's rivers with our engaging and informative recorded webinar. This presentation, perfect for those passionate about native fish, environmental activism, climate change, and river restoration, is now available for you to watch at your convenience.Webinar Highlights:Historical Impact: Learn about the profound effects of logging, mining, damming, agriculture, and flood protection on Oregon’s rivers. Understand how these activities have reshaped river morphology and disrupted ecosystems, affecting native fish and wildlife.Restoration Efforts: Discover the large-scale watershed restoration projects reversing past damages. See how these efforts enhance the climate resilience of river ecosystems and improve the health of native fish populations.Spotting the Signs: Gain insights into recognizing the historical signatures left by past land use. Identify the telltale signs of human impact on river systems and learn about areas in need of restoration.Case Study – Molalla River: Dive into an in-depth case study of the Molalla River restoration project. Liz Perkin shares the Native Fish Society's comprehensive work on restoring this impaired river, highlighting the strategies and successes achieved.This recorded webinar is ideal for avid anglers, environmental activists, and anyone concerned about climate change and river health. It provides valuable knowledge and inspiration to protect and restore our vital waterways.
Webcast: Getting to Know Your Neighborhood Trees Oregon Wild 2024-05-23 | Have you ever wondered about the stories that trees silently tell? Whether they stand tall in your backyard, adorn your local park, or thrive in the forests across our state, each tree holds a tale waiting to be discovered.In this webcast, Casey Clapp, host of the Completely Arbortrary podcast, leads us on an exploration of Oregon's diverse trees and ecosystems. Casey discusses trees and tree identification, and how understanding the unique traits of each tree can unlock hidden dynamics within our landscapes, no matter where you are in the state.This presentation isn't just about tree admiration—it's about empowerment. By learning to identify the trees around us, we gain a deeper connection to our environment and the ecosystems that sustain us. Casey shares quick tricks and invaluable tips from his forthcoming regional tree identification guide, equipping you with the knowledge to uncover the wonders of Oregon's trees right in your own backyard.
Webcast: From Forests to Your Tap Oregon Wild 2024-05-06 | Across Oregon, the impacts of climate change are becoming increasingly evident, with winter floods on the rise and our summer water supply dwindling. However, it's important to recognize that the situation is not solely a result of climate change.Common forest practices, such as clearcuts, uniform replanting of single tree species, and the aerial application of herbicides, exacerbate our challenges. These practices amplify droughts in the summer and floods in the winter, putting further strain on our precious water resources.Check out this recording of our recent Wild Wednesday Webcast, where we will dove into this critical issue with Dr. Julia Jones, Distinguished Professor of Geography at Oregon State University. Dr. Jones is a leading researcher who has made significant strides in connecting forest practices to streamflow and water quality.During the webcast, Dr. Jones and Casey Kulla from Oregon Wild explored tipping points, potential solutions to reverse the troubling trends in failing streams and water quality, and the invaluable lessons we can learn from mature, healthy forests.
Webcast: A Restoration Vision for Oregons Dry Forests Oregon Wild 2024-04-18 | Retired US Forest Service Ecologist Maret Pajutee tells the story of how the Forest Service began work with one of its fiercest critics to find a new level of collaboration and whether or not those lessons are being carried forward.The forests of eastern Oregon are diverse and beautiful. Old growth ponderosa pine in savanna-like settings; mixed conifer forests with Engelmann spruce, true firs, lodgepole pine, and western larch; vast landscapes of high desert with scattered juniper trees; and stands of glistening quaking aspen are all important components of healthy eastside forests. Of the more than 10 million acres of National Forest lands in eastern Oregon, many have been seriously altered over the past 100+ years from aggressive logging, fire suppression, livestock grazing, and road building.Could people with diverse viewpoints agree on a way to do that restoration work while protecting carbon-storing old and mature trees and important wildlife habitat? Discover the story of the Glaze Meadow Forest project outside Sisters, Oregon, where Oregon Wild, The Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs, the Forest Service, and other partners attempted to do just that. It took a leap of faith, leaders willing to take a risk, and adopting new research findings.
Layers of Life: Geology and Natural History of the John Day River Basin Oregon Wild 2024-04-16 | Embark on a captivating adventure with Nicholas Famoso, Paleontology Program Manager at the John Day Fossil Beds National Monument, as he guides us through the stunning geologic and natural history of the John Day River basin in Oregon. This recorded presentation reveals the transformative journey of this remarkable landscape, shaped by volcanic forces and tectonic shifts.Discover how the complex geology of the John Day basin has recorded a rich tapestry of environmental changes—from deep oceans and subtropical rainforests to temperate forests and sagebrush steppes. Learn about the volcanic activities that sculpted the land and the tectonic events that help date these formations, providing a window into the ancient past.The John Day River, along with its tributaries, plays a pivotal role in exposing these geological layers and depositing new ones, making it a key area for scientific study and understanding. This basin's unique history is preserved across a mix of public and private lands, offering a continuous record of ecological and geological evolution.Perfect for enthusiasts of travel, adventure, geology, paleontology, and natural history!Join us for a thrilling exploration into Oregon's past, uncovering the secrets held in the fossils and formations of this dynamic geological hotspot. Whether you're a seasoned geologist, a history buff, or simply curious about the natural world, this presentation will enrich your understanding of Earth's complex past and the processes that have shaped our present landscape.🌎 #Travel #Adventure #Geology #Paleontology #Oregon #History #NaturalHistory #EnvironmentalActivism #ClimateChange #Fossils
Webcast: Leave it to Beavers Oregon Wild 2024-04-04 | Join us for a fascinating journey into the world of beavers with Brian Bangs from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, in this insightful Wild Wednesday Webcast. Discover how beavers, often hailed as nature's master engineers, play a pivotal role in our ecosystem by utilizing their remarkable adaptations to shape aquatic environments.In this presentation, Brian delves deep into the extraordinary biology and specialized skills of beavers. Learn how their dam-building activities not only store and purify water but also spread it across landscapes to foster vibrant wetlands and riparian zones. These activities are especially vital today as they offer natural solutions to the challenges posed by climate change and biodiversity loss.The webcast doesn't stop there; it also explores the crucial role beavers play in creating and sustaining habitats for a myriad of other species, emphasizing their integral part in maintaining ecological balance. Additionally, Brian introduces innovative strategies for managing beaver-human conflicts, paving the way for coexistence and understanding the benefits these creatures bring to environmental stability and restoration.Perfect for enthusiasts of wildlife, nature photography, ecology, hydrology, and biology, this video will deepen your appreciation for these industrious animals and inspire you to consider the broader implications of their impact on our planet. Whether you're a professional in environmental science, a dedicated conservationist, or simply a nature lover, this webcast provides valuable insights into the symbiotic relationships that define and sustain the natural world.🌿 #Beavers #Wildlife #NaturePhotography #Ecology #Restoration #Hydrology #ClimateChange #Oregon #NatureEducation #BiologyBeaver kit photo by Sarah Koenigsberg
Webcast: The Future of Fire Policy Oregon Wild 2024-03-21 | Ryan Reed with FireGen and Tim Ingalsbee with FUSEE discuss fire policy and how forests and communities can adapt to be more resilient in a new era of fire on the landscape. At this webcast, we dive into all things “fire” - looking at how past fire policy and management has informed the current state of fire on the landscape, and how a paradigm shift towards ecological wildland fire management can also empower Indigenous communities and young generations, while helping to protect healthy forests and communities. We explore fire policy in the context of other efforts to manage public forest lands, address climate change, and prepare communities for fire.
Webcast: Strengthening Our Democracy: Insights from Tribal Democracy Project Oregon Wild 2024-03-21 | When democracy works and the values of all people are reflected in decisions, water, wildlife, and landscapes are safeguarded. When a narrower group of wealthy interests are the only ones with a seat at the table, these values are degraded. Oregon Wild believes in a functioning and healthy representative democracy for all; one in which people power matters more than the power of money. Oregonians deserve fair elections and leaders who listen to them before listening to big donors.That's why we're excited to welcome Tribal Democracy Project to learn about their important work to engage in civics education in Tribal Communities, address issues of Native vote disenfranchisement, promote electoral reforms rooted in racial equity, and uplift Native candidates for public office. Though a relatively new organization, they're already making a positive impact.In this webcast, co-founders Brian and Jaylyn talk about the mission, vision, and scope of their organization, Tribal Democracy Project, and what their top priorities are for this year and beyond. Their presentation includes Tribal Democracy Project's philosophy on electoral reforms, including redistricting and ranked-choice voting efforts, a discussion of ceded lands, Tribal treaty rights and land acknowledgments, and finally, an overview of their upcoming Warm Springs Civics workshop series.
Webcast: The Future of Our Forests Oregon Wild 2024-03-21 | Join us for an enlightening presentation as we delve into the crucial developments in forest conservation that emerged at the end of 2023. This video explores two significant policy proposals that promise to shape the future of over 24 million acres of national forestlands across Oregon, Washington, and Northern California.Learn about the groundbreaking amendments to the Northwest Forest Plan, originally established in 1993 to address the rampant clear-cutting of old-growth forests in the 1970s and 1980s. This plan has been a cornerstone for the conservation of wildlife habitats, clean water, and public lands forests. We'll discuss how these amendments aim to further these efforts and respond to contemporary environmental challenges.Simultaneously, we examine a new initiative announced by the Biden administration to protect our old-growth forests from commercial logging, aligning with the administration's Executive Order to leverage mature and old-growth forests as a climate change solution. This is a pivotal moment for environmental activism and forest conservation.This presentation is perfect for anyone interested in forest conservation, climate change solutions, environmental activism, and the policies that impact our natural world. Whether you're a hiker, a recreation enthusiast, or someone passionate about sustainable travel and the great outdoors in Oregon and Washington, this video will equip you with the knowledge to understand and advocate for these transformative policies.🌲 #ForestConservation #ClimateChange #EnvironmentalActivism #OldGrowthForests #RestorationEcology #Oregon #Washington #Hiking #Travel #ForestService
Webcast: Snowshoeing Mount Hood 2024 Oregon Wild 2024-01-25 | Even though many of our favorite hiking trails are covered in snow, winter is still a great time to get out and enjoy Oregon's wildlands. It just takes a bit of extra planning and some different gear. Whether you are an experienced snowshoer or thinking about trying it out for the first time, Oregon Wild has you covered! Enjoy this Snowshoeing Mount Hood webcast to learn about how and where to snowshoe at Mount Hood. Wilderness Program Manager Erik Fernandez presents suggestions regarding everything from safety to gear to picking the most scenic trails. This presentation also covers some "Snowshoeing 101" for those new to the activity as well as some tips on locations that apply to all ability levels.
Webcast: Update on the Elliott State Research Forest Oregon Wild 2024-01-18 | The Elliott State Forest is one of the crown jewels of the Oregon Coast Range. It is a stronghold for federally listed marbled murrelets, northern spotted owls, and Coho salmon, and has some of the last remaining old-growth forests left in Oregon State forests.The Elliott has historically been one of Oregon's most conflicted landscapes, but in recent years, stakeholders have come together to forge a new collaborative path forward. In this presentation, Bob Sallinger provides an update on the creation of an Elliott State Research Forest. Sallinger has been working to protect the Elliott for more than a decade, including serving on the current provisional board of directors of the Elliott. Bob discusses how process is still on track and how it will still provide strong protections for the Elliott's imperiled wildlife and mature forests going forward.
A Wild Promise Webcast Oregon Wild 2023-12-14 | Award-winning illustrator Allen Crawford spoke about A Wild Promise: An Illustrated Celebration of the Endangered Species Act. This book is a celebration of conservation, commitment, and compassion—a clarion call to continue to preserve and protect our living world. He was joined by Terry Tempest Williams, the renowned author of more than 20 nonfiction books, whose introductory essay to A Wild Promise is urgent and inspirational, lending voice and spirit to all endangered species.These incredible creators discussed the importance of the Endangered Species Act and how we can protect countless species nationwide. The inspiring, persevering, and hopeful journeys of wildlife, pollinators, and plants came alive during this event with beautiful artwork and heartfelt storytelling.
Oregon Flyover Part 1: Fire Impacts and Management on Private vs Public Lands Oregon Wild 2023-12-05 | ...
The Comeback of Nature’s Fastest Animal Oregon Wild 2023-11-30 | As the fastest animal in the world, the peregrine falcon is a marvel of sheer athleticism, reaching speeds over 240 mph! Today, peregrines can be glimpsed nesting under bridges in urban centers or flying up the Columbia Gorge, but the species wasn't always thriving. DDT poisoning impacted their ability to lay healthy eggs and by the 1970s only a few hundred remained in the wild. To save the species, action had to be taken, and quickly.Luckily, the peregrine was one of the first species listed under the fledgling Endangered Species Act in 1973 and now this magnificent bird has made a dramatic comeback!
Webcast: A River Through Time - The Upper Deschutes River Basin Oregon Wild 2023-11-17 | Despite its location in the semi-arid climate of central Oregon's high desert, the Deschutes once had some of the most stable year-round flows in the world. It is also the world's largest spring-fed river. But where does the water in the Deschutes come from, and what happened to these historically stable flows?Geologist Hal Wershow takes us back in time to learn about the geologic history of the Upper Deschutes River basin–the headwaters of this iconic river. The unique hydrology and geology of this watershed helped support diverse ecosystems, sustained human civilizations since time immemorial, and made the growth of the central Oregon cities of today possible. However, with accelerating climate change and overuse, the future of the Deschutes and all that rely on it is uncertain. Oregon Wild staff also discuss proposed legislation that would protect the headwaters and key tributaries of the Upper Deschutes basin for water quality and quantity, fish and wildlife habitat, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
Webcast: The Future of Eastern Oregon Forests Oregon Wild 2023-10-25 | Though often overlooked, Eastern Oregon's forests are of global importance. They host Oregon's most complete assemblage of large wildlife. They provide an irreplaceable link between the Rockies, Cascades, and the coast beyond. They are also home to the headwaters of some of our region's most iconic waterways. Whether it's the snowy peaks of the Eagle Cap, the depths of Hells Canyon, or the majesty of an old-growth forest in the Ochoco, the landscapes of the Blue Mountain ecoregion have also provided cultural value since time immemorial - no less than 15,000 years!Eastern Oregon Legacy Lands Systems Ecologist Dr. David Mildrexler shares his research on the region's importance with a special focus on wildlife, water, and climate, as well as conservation opportunities identified by world-renowned researchers.The timing couldn't be better. The US Forest Service has restarted a process to create a management plan for over 5 million acres of these forests that will guide activities for decades. Oregon Wild staff will be joined by Jamie Dawson, the Conservation Director for Greater Hells Canyon Council. We'll discuss what this process means, and how you can do your part to ensure Eastern Oregon's forests continue to thrive for decades to come.Sign the petition for a fair planning process: oregonwild.org/protect-blue-mountains-now-and-forever
Webcast: Hiking the Old-Growth Forests of the Cascades Oregon Wild 2023-09-21 | From the slopes of Mount Hood to the headwaters of the Willamette, old-growth forest trails in the Oregon Cascades offer some of the best hiking you can imagine. On this webcast, join John Cissel, an old-growth lover and forest researcher who hiked thousands of miles of these trails in the 1990s and published guide-maps and a book describing his favorite hikes in the Mount Hood and Willamette National Forests. Now, he's published a “3rd edition” of his guide online, with updates and reflections from 25 years of change in the forest and on the trails. Learn all about the different types of forests you'll find with his help, and get updates on the work Oregon Wild is doing to protect the last of these incredibly important ecosystems - for the future of our climate and vital biodiversity (and your hiking enjoyment!).John Cissel worked as a Research Liaison for the HJ Andrews Experimental Forest throughout the 1990s, and served as the site director there in 2002. John spent time as the Oregon Science Coordinator for the BLM, and program director for the Joint Fire Science Program at the National Interagency Fire Center before retiring in 2016. From 1990-2003, John hiked over 2,000 miles throughout the Cascade Range searching for the finest remaining old forests, and published four guide-maps (1991, 1993, 1996, 1998) and a book (2003) describing the best of those hikes. A newly revised third edition of “50 Old-Growth Hikes in the Willamette National Forest” is now freely available at OldGrowthHIkesPNW.org.
Webcast: Dammed to Extinction Oregon Wild 2023-08-24 | The early-to-mid 20th Century was marked by an era of dam building across the United States. These dams came at a cost to watersheds, freshwater ecosystems, and indigenous communities. Every year, millions of salmon were blocked from reaching their historic spawning beds, eventually resulting in the collapse of salmon runs across the west. The Columbia River basin was once home to the world's most productive chinook salmon runs. These fish traveled all the way into the central mountains of Idaho to spawn. Now, they are blocked from reaching their home waters by dozens of dams along the Columbia, Snake, and other rivers in the watershed.However, several recent success stories of dam removal show that salmon populations can return and rebound if we allow them to. Salmon returned almost immediately to the Elwha River on the Olympic Peninsula after it was freed from a dam, and the Lower Elwha River tribe restarted subsistence fishing after 100 years. The dams along the Klamath River are currently coming down, which, once completed, will be the largest dam removal the world has ever seen. In this presentation, author Steven Hawley discusses the issues with dams and their impacts on salmon and wildlife and looks forward to a future of wild, free-flowing rivers and thriving salmon runs. Steven Hawley is a writer and filmmaker from Hood River, Oregon. He is the writer and co-producer of an award-winning documentary, “Dammed to Extinction” (2019), and the author of two books: Cracked: The Future of Dams in a Hot, Chaotic World (Patagonia, 2023) and Recovering a Lost River (Beacon Press, 2011). He was among the first to write about the historic agreement to tear out Edwards Dam on the Kennebec River in Maine. Since then, his work has appeared in High Country News, OnEarth, The Oregonian, Missoula Independent and other publications. He's also a contributor at The Drake, Outlaw, and the Columbia Insight.
Where Wildlife Roam: Ensuring the Freedom to Move Webcast Oregon Wild 2023-08-10 | Where towering forests, lush wetlands, or windswept grasslands once stood, now lies an entangled web of highways and infrastructure crisscrossing ancestral migration paths. With rampant biodiversity loss and climate change shifting suitable habitats even further, the need for connectivity and safe wildlife crossing structures is urgent now more than ever in order for species to move and migrate.Unfortunately, Oregon lags severely behind in critical wildlife crossing and habitat connectivity investments compared to other western states. Learn about solutions to change that and success stories from the Pacific Northwest, where wolves, cougars, deer, and many other species can travel safely.
Webcast: Hiking the Tillamook State Forest Oregon Wild 2023-07-21 | The Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests in the northern Oregon Coast Range are an unappreciated wonder. Surrounded by clearcut logging plantations, the Tillamook and Clatsop provide a possible refuge for the wild plants, fish, and animals that were once abundant throughout the Oregon Coast Range but whose presence has been diminished by corporate tree farms. It is also an incredible place for hiking and exploring, offering opportunities for solitude where so many other places in Oregon feel like they're bursting at the seams.This Wild Wednesday Webcast features a presentation on hiking the Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests! Coast Range resident and naturalist Kira Taylor touches on some of the more well-known hikes in the Tillamook State Forest, then share other less well-known spots while discussing the region's unique history, flora, and fauna.The Oregon Supreme Court has firmly established that the Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests are public lands managed for the benefit of all Oregonians. Despite this, logging lobbyists and their allies are fighting tooth and nail to establish the management of these forests as logging-first, public-last. Oregon Wild's State Forest Policy Coordinator Casey Kulla will give an update on the campaign to keep these state forests public (in more than just name), their conservation value, and how you can take action to protect these incredible landscapes!
Webcast: Marbled Murrelet - A Seabird of the Forest Oregon Wild 2023-06-29 | Enter the mysterious world of the marbled murrelet, a rare seabird that nests in the dwindling old-growth forests of Oregon's Coast Range. For years, scientists struggled to understand where these birds nested - eventually finding them intimately tied to the forest ecosystems of the coast that were also home to salmon, northern spotted owls, and many other species at risk from extensive clearcutting. Out at sea, these birds face a different set of challenges to survival - especially in a warming climate.Kim Nelson, a research wildlife biologist with Oregon State University, has been studying these birds and the ecosystems they depend on for decades. Join her as we go deep into the forest, ocean, and the complex issues that are determining the fate of this fascinating bird, and how you can help this fragile species!
Oregons Orcas: The Southern Residents Oregon Wild 2023-06-22 | Orcas, the largest member of the dolphin family, are instantly recognizable with their distinct monochrome ensemble. Best known for exceptional hunting, this has earned them the title ‘killer whale’. However, behind the nickname the mammals have a fascinating array of aptitudes and strategies – such as extreme intelligence, language, familial loyalty, and sheer athletic prowess – that make them apex predators of the ocean.Even with all these abilities orcas can’t outcompete humans. From overfishing, dams, and chemical exposure this magnificent marine mammal faces many threats. Dr. Giles from Wild Orca and Quinn Read from the Center for Biological Diversity discussed orca biology and how you can help the species thrive.
The Wanderer: An Alaska Wolf’s Final Journey Oregon Wild 2023-05-25 | Informed by unparalleled access to a research project that studied wolves in Alaska’s Yukon–Charley Rivers National Preserve for more than two decades, award-winning author, photographer, and naturalist Tom Walker shares the story of Wolf 258, nicknamed “the Wanderer.” A GPS collar recorded the animal’s coordinates once a day as it moved through the wilderness, and to the amazement of all, the Wanderer traveled more than 2700 miles in less than six months. The first book to chart a wolf’s movements for such an extended period of time, The Wanderer offers remarkable insights into this beloved, feared, and mysterious creature. Through the lens of 258’s epic journey, Walker highlights connections to terrain, history, and looming threats in addition to the biology of wolves and key interrelated species. The Wanderer recounts one particular wolf ’s compelling final months, while examining the broader complexity of the species and its struggle for survival. Walker explores the natural history of wolves, and the relationship of people to this predator, shedding light on the tangled politics of wolf management, and the inability of artificial borders to contain this iconic species.
Salamanders and Streams: A Top Predator in the Headwaters Oregon Wild 2023-05-24 | From pinky-finger sized to arm-length - salamanders thrive in Oregon's rainforests and waterways. On this webcast, we're joined by Oregon State University professor Tiffany Garcia, who tells the story of torrent salamanders, what makes them special, what habitats they need to thrive, and what conservation concerns there are for these amazing little creatures. In addition, learn more about Oregon Wild's work that promotes protection and restoration of amphibian habitats. Tiffany Garcia is a Professor in the Department of Fisheries and Wildlife at Oregon State University. Her research focuses on both direct and indirect effects of environmental stress on amphibian populations and their habitats.
Canoe Culture of the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Oregon Wild 2023-04-27 | From healthy open forests of towering western red cedars, bountiful with weaving materials and first foods, to clean, sparkling coastal waters and tidepools, these are all elements of the environment integral to the Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw (CTCLUSI) identity and culture. Since time immemorial cedar canoes have been used as a foundation for travel and trade– a way to strengthen and build connections along the coastline. Jesse Beers, Cultural Stewardship Manager for CTCLUSI, spoke about canoe culture and how to safeguard it for future generations.
Webcast: Where We Call Home 3.15.23 Oregon Wild 2023-03-17 | Reconnect with the natural world through essays that blend science and prose. In her debut work, journalist Josephine Woolington sheds light on diverse flora and fauna of the Pacific Northwest. From the coastal tailed frog to yellow cedar, these stories encourage a more collective understanding of our natural wonders in a rapidly changing world.
Webcast: Snowshoeing Central Oregon 2023 Oregon Wild 2023-02-23 | Oregon Wild's webcast on how and where to snowshoe in Central Oregon. Wilderness Program Manager Erik Fernandez presents suggestions regarding everything from safety to gear to picking the most scenic trails. This webcast also covers some "Snowshoeing 101" for those new to the activity as well as some tips on locations that would be applicable to all ability levels.
Snake River Salmon and the Race Against Extinction Oregon Wild 2023-02-16 | Salmon, an icon and backbone of the Pacific Northwest, has a way of bringing people together. Since time immemorial, the salmon has been respected for its strength and selflessness. It is considered a vital and sacred element of the environment, intertwined with healthy landscapes and the cultural identity of many tribes. In the past, salmon were a common and plentiful sight as they migrated upstream to spawn. However, salmon populations have been rapidly declining for decades, especially in the Snake River where a series of dams block the species’ safe passage. Special guest Chairman Samuel N. Penney spoke about how the Nez Perce Tribe (Nimiipuu) are working to change that. They have been leaders in the fight to breach the four lower Snake River dams, but now more than ever, time is of the essence.
The Natural History of the Klamath Mountains Oregon Wild 2023-01-26 | Take a journey through the biotic and abiotic wonders that define the Klamath Mountains and one of the most unique mountain ranges in North America.Ecologist and author Michael Kauffmann takes us on across the range based on his new book about the range that spans northwest California and southwest Oregon. We explore a variety of features that make the Klamath Mountains unique including climate, geology, water, fire, plants, and animals -- all of which, when taken together, define one of the most biodiverse temperate mountain ranges on Earth.
Snowshoeing Mount Hood (2023) Oregon Wild 2023-01-12 | Back by popular demand! Oregon Wild's Wilderness Program Manager Erik Fernandez brings tips regarding everything from safety to gear to picking the most scenic trails. We'll include some "Snowshoeing 101" for those new to the activity as well as some suggested on locations in the Mount Hood region that would be applicable to all ability levels. The presentation will include:-Photography of recommended scenic snowshoeing destinations around Mount Hood-The basics of learning to snowshoe-Reference map-What to bring-How to be safe when snowshoeing-Gear (snowshoes and clothing)-End of session Q&A
Protecting Old Growth Forests for Climate Justice Oregon Wild 2022-12-15 | Impacts of climate change are felt disproportionately around the world, which makes the climate crisis intertwined with climate justice. Clear solutions are needed to address the issue: human-caused carbon emissions. Luckily, mature and old-growth forests pull in and store vast amounts of carbon from the atmosphere. On federal lands conserving forests offers one of the most straightforward and cost-effective ways to address the climate crisis and has been recognized by scientists as an essential climate strategy that must be implemented alongside cutting greenhouse gas emissions.Our presenters from the Women's Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN) discussed how they are centering climate justice in their work to protect mature and old-growth forests. They discussed climate justice in Oregon, Alaska and internationally.
Worth More Standing: Flat Country Oregon Wild 2022-11-09 | The Flat Country project, proposed by the U.S. Forest Service, targets over 2,000 acres of old-growth and mature forests for logging across the headwaters of the McKenzie River. The agency could auction the old growth to be cut at any moment.Earlier this year, President Joe Biden signed Executive Order 14072 on Strengthening the Nation’s Forests, Communities, and Local Economies, which directs his administration to create stronger protections for public forests in an effort to mitigate the climate crisis. Despite this Executive Order, Willamette National Forest is moving forward with the timber sale which threatens thousands of acres of old-growth and mature forest in the McKenzie Watershed, the very types of forests the Executive Order was meant to safeguard.
Oregon’s Turtles: A Journey from Land to Sea Oregon Wild 2022-10-20 | Did you know Oregon is home to only two small, native freshwater turtles – the western painted turtle and the northwestern pond turtle – which only weigh a few pounds?! Compare that to the gigantic leatherback sea turtle found in the deeper waters along Oregon’s coast, which can weigh a whopping 1,500 pounds! From land to sea and from big to small, turtles come in a wide variety of sizes and have adapted to live in both freshwater and saltwater environments.
Porcupine of the Pacific Northwest Oregon Wild 2022-07-22 | Although porcupines may be slowpokes, most other animals know to keep a wide berth from those sharp quills! The porcupine's prickly self defense mechanism makes it easily recognizable, however their vital importance in the ecosystems of the Pacific Northwest is often less known. Porcupines are intertwined with healthy forest lifecycles, turning trees into critical habitat for dozens of other species. Aside from the quills, they also have many other valuable physical characteristics, allowing them to be true adventurers of every elevation of a forest. Biologist Cara Appeal from Oregon State University uncovered the mysteries and stories surrounding porcupines in the forests of the Pacific Northwest.
In Search of the Belted Kingfisher Oregon Wild 2022-06-02 | Whether hovering or diving from a branch, a belted kingfisher's headfirst plunge to snap fish near the surface is swift and precise. The jay-sized birds flourish across North America where water is clean, and in places with plentiful fish, perches, and coveted earthen nest banks. Oregon's many rivers, streams, lakes, ponds, wetlands, and coastal bays offer refuge for this dazzling bird. Oregon author Marina Richie joined us for an evening of stories and excerpts from her new book, Halcyon Journey: In Search of the Belted Kingfisher – a first-person narrative threading natural history, myth, and memoir, which features 16 illustrations by Oregon artist Ram Papish.
Oregons Marine Mammals Oregon Wild 2022-05-19 | Learn about our state's journeying marine mammals. From the biggest animals on Earth like the blue whale, which weighs as much as 33 elephants (~200 tons) and has a heart the size of a Volkswagen Beetle, to some of the smartest and most agile, like the bottlenose dolphin, Oregon's ocean has it all. We gave a warm whale-come to Dr. Ballance, the Director and Endowed Chair for the Marine Mammal Institute at Oregon State University. She discussed the cutting edge science surrounding marine mammals, threats, and what can be done to protect them.
Return Flight of the California Condor: Destination, PNW Oregon Wild 2022-05-13 | On May 3, 2022 after nearly a century long absence, the first two California condors (prey-go-neesh) were reintroduced by the Yurok Tribe and Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California! This incredibly momentous occasion brought North America’s largest bird back to its ancestral range, and symbolized cultural restoration and healing for the Yurok people. Ann Vilesis from Kalmiopsis Audubon, and Kelli Walker, Senior California Condor Keeper who oversees the Oregon Zoo's condor conservation breeding program discussed important conservation efforts to bring the species back from the brink of extinction.
Let Giants Grow: Bidens Executive Order on Forests and Climate Oregon Wild 2022-05-05 | On Earth Day, President Biden signed an Executive Order that recognized the importance of mature and old-growth forests as a climate solution but stopped short of protecting these forests from their #1 threat: logging across federal public lands.So what does this order actually do?In this presentation, representatives from the Climate Forests campaign will unpack the details of this announcement: the good, the bad, and the steps forest and climate activists will need to take to ensure this executive order results in a responsible, substantial, climate-focused policy that actually protects our mature and old-growth forests for future generations.
Conservation Conversations: Faith E. Briggs Oregon Wild 2022-04-25 | Faith E. Briggs is best known for her projects This Land (2019), Brotherhood of Skiing (2018) and We Hike to Heal (2020), and for co-hosting The Trail Ahead podcast. She has also collaborated with clients such as Merrell, Patagonia, The North Face, REI, Subaru, American Rivers and Rumpl. In this interview she discusses the importance of representation and explicit invitation of BIPOC people on public lands and in the environmental realm. She also gives insight on how her work at the intersection of race, history, culture and environment shapes how she communicates about equity, diversity and inclusion.
The Plight of the Imperiled Pearlshell Oregon Wild 2022-04-07 | Biologist Dr. Alexa Maine from the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation (CTUIR) spoke about Oregon's native freshwater mussel species, which are some of the most endangered animals in North America! Learn about the mollusks that tirelessly clean water systems, and provide beneficial conditions for a multitude of other organisms. We discussed the value of mussels as a First Food for the CTUIR, their conservation measures surrounding freshwater mussels, and what can be done to help these very imperiled invertebrates.
You & Me in the Trees Oregon Wild 2022-03-31 | You & Me in the Trees: a storytelling and discussion on how to inspire conservationists both young and young at heart!Have a kid in your life you want to spend time with outside? Or were you once a kid who loved being outside? Join us for this presentation on exploring, protecting, and respecting the natural world with Amoris Walker, author of the new children's book You & Me in the Trees. Amoris reads her beautifully-illustrated book, followed by a discussion on topics ranging from how to get kids off screens and outdoors, teaching leave no trace principles, and the different ways we can all appreciate and protect nature.Author's bio:Amoris Walker has worn many hats - as a social media consultant, video producer, public speaker, and member of a traveling family band. She has been writing for as long as she can remember and is excited to add children's book author to her list of accomplishments with the publication of You & Me in the Trees this year.Amoris lives in Oregon with her husband and daughter Kahlia, they are always on the lookout for the next adventure. She hopes You & Me in the Trees inspires you to get outside, and protect your own habitat.Support You & Me in the Trees:Patreon: patreon.com/youandmebooksThe book website page: bit.ly/youandmebooksDirect link to buy through publisher: mascotbooks.com/mascot-marketplace/buy-books/childrens/picture-books/you-and-me-in-the-treesResources and more information:Wolfways: Wolf education oregonwild.org/wildlife/wolves/wolfways-wolf-educationBeaver fact sheet for kids: oregonwild.org/sites/default/files/pdf-files/Beaver%20Fact%20Sheet%20%281%29.pdfKid approved activities for quarantine blog: oregonwild.org/about/blog/kid-approved-activities-quarantine
Combatting Racism on Oregons Public Lands Oregon Wild 2022-03-03 | Racism is a problem on public lands, and many communities do not feel safe or welcome when recreating. While efforts have been made by individual leaders and organizations to create more equitable and inclusive conditions, the work is far from over. Luckily, there are state-based solutions that seek to make a difference.Clara Soh, an Oregon Wild board member, avid rock climber, and explorer of public lands who has served on the Governor's Equity and Justice Task Force, and Mauricio Valadrian, the founder of Valadrian Creative & Consulting, (a firm specialized in equity, diversity and inclusion communications), fierce advocate for outdoor equity, board member of Hike it Baby, and vice-chair for The Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee explored solutions being implemented at the state level to address injustices.
Conservation Conversations: Tabitha Miles-Kingrey Oregon Wild 2022-02-25 | Tabitha started her supervisor position at Oxbow in 2019, adding fresh perspective to the environmental movement and dedication towards creating safe and welcoming recreation experiences for all people. In this conversation, Tabitha discusses how she makes space for BIPOC people, not just physically in the park, but also through day to day actions. She uncovers steps to move forward in the creation of a more inclusive, diverse and equitable environmental movement by drawing on her experience with the public as a Black, queer woman.
The Road to 30x30: A Campaign for Nature Oregon Wild 2022-02-17 | Scientists worldwide agree that in order to protect biodiversity and address global climate change, bold action towards conservation is needed: they recommend working to conserve 30% of the planet's natural land and oceans by the year 2030 (known as the “30x30 initiative”). Join us for this webcast that will explore how conserving 30% of the U.S.'s lands and waters can meet these goals and benefit all Americans. We'll hear from Lauren Bogard, Director of Campaigns & Special Projects with the Center for Western Priorities. Lauren is heading up the “Road to 30: Postcards” campaign – a multimedia compilation to tell the stories of local people and organizations working to conserve specific landscapes, showing the breadth and depth of support that is driving conservation efforts across the country as a way to encourage the Biden administration to use its administrative tools to support on-the-ground conservation opportunities in order to reach the 30x30 goal. The webcast will also explore how Oregon Wild's work - from campaigns to protect old-growth forests to Wild & Scenic Rivers - fits into this bold vision, and opportunities for our supporters to engage in this big-picture conservation vision.
