Jackson SWCD: Antelope Creek Riparian Restoration 01/30/2025
The Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District (JSWCD), based in Oregon, serves the diverse and ecologically rich landscapes of Jackson County. Situated within the Klamath-Siskiyou Bioregion, the county is home to a variety of ecosystems, including oak woodlands, mixed conifer forests, and riparian areas. These landscapes play an essential role in supporting the region’s communities by providing clean water, timber, wildlife habitat, and recreational opportunities. However, these natural resources face ongoing challenges, including water quality issues, wildfire risks, and the need for sustainable management. JSWCD has long been at the forefront of addressing these challenges, working with local landowners and partners to implement impactful conservation solutions.
Among Jackson County’s critical watersheds, Little Butte Creek is particularly important. This tributary of the Rogue River supports salmon and steelhead habitats, provides irrigation water, and serves as a primary source of drinking water for more than 150,000 residents. The creek flows into the Rogue River just upstream of the Medford Water Commission’s intake, making its health essential to maintaining high-quality water supplies. However, the watershed faces challenges, including sedimentation, bacteria, and elevated water temperatures, especially during the summer irrigation season. Addressing these issues is crucial for protecting aquatic ecosystems, ensuring clean water for local communities, and preserving the watershed’s recreational and agricultural value.
With a $737,805 grant from the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, JSWCD is set to restore 41 acres of riparian forest along Antelope Creek, one of Little Butte Creek’s tributaries. The project will include removing invasive plants, planting native trees and shrubs, and installing livestock fencing and off-channel watering systems. In addition, the project will eliminate polluted runoff from flood-irrigated pastures and improve irrigation water management on more than 160 acres, reducing sediment and bacteria entering the watershed. These actions will protect water quality, enhance wildlife habitats, and support the long-term health of the Antelope Creek watershed.
This project builds on JSWCD’s history of tackling complex conservation challenges in the county. The district has been a leader in improving water quality in the Little Butte Creek watershed, prioritizing efforts that address sedimentation and riparian restoration. In northeastern Jackson County, the district has focused on forest health and wildfire resiliency, particularly after the S. Obenchain Fire in 2020. These efforts include thinning overgrown forests, removing invasive species, and restoring native vegetation to reduce wildfire risks and promote healthier ecosystems.
JSWCD’s work extends beyond individual projects, offering technical assistance, education, and resources to landowners across the county. By fostering collaboration and focusing on practical solutions, the district ensures its efforts benefit both the environment and the communities that depend on these resources.
To learn more about the Antelope Creek restoration project and other initiatives, visit JSWCD’s website.
Tags: Forestry, pacific region, oregon, Forestry Notes