Ochoco National Forest, Crooked River National Grassland receive National Grasslands Conservation Award

PORTLAND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- The National Grasslands Council has awarded the Crooked River National Grassland the 2024 National Grasslands Conservation Award for exceptional achievements in conservation and leadership in sustainable land management practices.

The award recognizes the Crooked River National Grassland’s efforts working through strong partnerships with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, Oregon Department of Forestry, and various conservation organizations to successfully implement projects that enhance wildlife habitats, reduce wildfire risk, and support the local community.

“We are honored to receive this recognition for our conservation work on the Crooked River National Grassland,” said Shane Jeffries, Forest Supervisor for the Ochoco National Forest and Crooked River National Grassland. “This award reflects the dedication of our team and the strength of our partnerships. Together, we are making strides in protecting critical habitats, reducing wildfire risks, and ensuring these lands thrive for present and future generations.”

The Crooked River National Grassland plays a vital role in the national Wildfire Crisis Strategy as part of the Central Oregon investment landscape. By incorporating traditional ecological knowledge, such as cultural burning practices from the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs, and modern fire management techniques, the Grassland has significantly reduced fire risks while fostering co-stewardship.

The Metolius Winter Range Restoration Project, one of the Crooked River National Grassland’s flagship initiatives, focuses on improving mule deer migration corridors, removing invasive species, and restoring native plant populations. Collaborative efforts with partners like the Oregon Wildlife Foundation and Portland General Electric have resulted in long-term conservation outcomes, benefiting both the environment and local wildlife.

In addition to conservation efforts, the Crooked River National Grassland has made strides in renewable energy development, managing 20% of renewable energy interest on Forest Service lands. Their work on creating national templates for sustainable energy projects has the potential to influence climate resiliency efforts on a national scale.

"The Crooked River National Grassland’s achievements are a testament to their commitment to collaborative conservation. Their ability to integrate cultural and ecological knowledge sets a high standard for national grassland management,” said Jacque Buchanan, Regional Forester for the Forest Service’s Pacific Northwest Region. “Their efforts ensure these landscapes remain healthy and sustainable for future generations.”

The Crooked River National Grassland partnerships with organizations like the Oregon Hunters Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, and Quail Forever have also led to thousands of acres of habitat restoration, including invasive species control and water improvement, further enhancing the area’s ecological health.

“I am incredibly proud of the staff at Crooked River National Grassland for their continued commitment to taking a collaborative and multifaceted approach to land management,” said Casey Johnson, Forest Service National Grasslands Manager. “Their work is a testament to the social and ecological complexities present across the National Grasslands and stands as a beacon of what can be accomplished when we partner, think outside the box, and do the hard work for the right reasons.”

The National Grasslands Conservation Award is an annual recognition sponsored by the National Grasslands Council. It highlights innovative conservation practices that promote biodiversity, ecosystem restoration, and collaboration among public agencies, local communities, and private partners.

For more information on the Crooked River National Grassland’s conservation efforts and ongoing projects, please visit https://www.fs.usda.gov/ochoco.