In most cases, yes. Activities that involve dredging, filling, or altering a wetland or waterway require permits from the Oregon Department of State Lands and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. We can help you understand the permitting process and connect you with the appropriate agencies.

Yes, the Two Rivers SWCD can help landowners identify and apply for various grant and cost-share programs to help offset the cost of implementing conservation projects. The availability of these programs varies, so please contact our office to discuss your project and current funding opportunities.

Invasive weeds can outcompete native plants and degrade habitat. We can help you identify common invasive species in Josephine County and develop a management plan using a combination of manual, mechanical, and chemical control methods.

Creating habitat for native pollinators and wildlife can be a rewarding experience. We can provide guidance on planting native flowers and shrubs, creating brush piles for cover, and installing nesting boxes to support local wildlife populations.

Healthy soil is the foundation of a productive landscape. We can provide information on soil testing, cover cropping, composting, and other practices to improve soil health and fertility on your property.

There are many ways to conserve water, from simple changes in your daily habits to larger-scale irrigation improvements. We can provide guidance on efficient irrigation techniques, drought-tolerant plant selection, and other water-saving practices for your home, garden, or agricultural operation.

Proper management of mud and manure is crucial for protecting water quality, especially on properties with livestock. We can offer technical assistance on practices such as rotational grazing, heavy use area protection, and manure storage facilities.

No, the Two Rivers SWCD is a non-regulatory and non-enforcement public body. We work with landowners on a voluntary basis to provide technical assistance and connect them with resources to help them meet their conservation objectives.

The Two Rivers SWCD works with landowners and residents in Josephine County to implement voluntary conservation projects. Our work focuses on improving water quality, enhancing soil health, managing invasive species, restoring wildlife habitat, and promoting sustainable land management practices. We provide technical assistance, educational resources, and access to financial incentives to help our community achieve its conservation goals.

A Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) is a local unit of government that provides assistance to landowners and residents to conserve and protect natural resources. SWCDs are non-regulatory and work with the community on a voluntary basis to address local conservation needs.

The Two Rivers SWCD offers a range of services to help landowners with their conservation projects. This includes free technical assistance over the phone, on-site property consultations, conservation planning, project design, and assistance with grant applications and permitting.

The Two Rivers SWCD is funded through a combination of local property taxes, competitive grants from state and federal agencies, and partnerships with other organizations. This funding structure allows us to leverage local support to bring in additional resources for conservation projects in Josephine County.

If you witness a pollution event or have a concern about environmental compliance, you should contact the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). For issues related to agricultural water quality, you can also contact our office for guidance and assistance.

For questions about water rights, well construction, or stream-related regulations, it is best to contact the Oregon Water Resources Department or your local Watermaster. The SWCD can help you find the right contact information and provide general guidance.