WILLIAMS COMMUNITY FOREST PROJECT forest monitor

The Williams Community Forest Project (WCFP) is a nonprofit organization funded by grants and donations that was created in the spring of 2007 to raise awareness and promote stewardship of the Williams valley forest lands located in Southern Oregon. We work to aid in the restoration and ecological maintenance of the forests within the Williams watershed, and explore recreational, educational, and economic opportunities provided by forests.

WCFP's Goals -

• Provide education that promotes stewardship of the forests.

• Provide and support outdoor recreation opportunities.

• Encourage the development of woodland management plans that provide for ecologically sustainable forests in Oregon.

• Collaborate with forest restoration entities, government agencies and landowners.

We recently created a paid position - Forest Watch Coordinator - a person who monitors, explores and documents tree stands in proposed timber sale units on public lands. This person accumulates 'on the ground' data in order to compare the accuracy of agency documents. They record geology, geography, tree diameters, canopy coverage, surrounding tree/plant species, structure and wildlife within the designated area. Waterways, riparian areas and human activities are also observed and recorded. In the very short interval of monitoring - < 6 months - this monitor has discovered many discrepancies with agency data versus current conditions, as well as possible legal violations. Additionally, they inform the community of their findings and encourage dialogue and decisions that have the best interests of the residents of the surrounding community.

This funding will cover a salary, monitoring equipment to include continued drone maintainance, repairs, observation and recording, trail cams, vehicle upkeep/ maintainance, personal gear to function in diverse weather conditions.

Thank you in advance for your generosity.