About Us
Headquartered in Lebanon, Oregon, we work across Linn County to engage local communities in enhancing and protecting the area's natural resources for the social and economic benefit of the community. The South Santiam Watershed Council was founded in the spring of 1997 as a community-based nonprofit dedicated to protecting and restoring the South Santiam Watershed through voluntary, collaborative, and science-informed conservation.
Since the beginning, the Council has monitored and evaluated natural resources, promoted awareness and education, and facilitated ecological restoration projects throughout the watershed. Today, the Council continues to pursue many of these same goals while expanding its scope of work.
Who We Are
We are a 501(c)(3) organization that helps residents work together to improve the health of the South Santiam watershed. These efforts are rooted in science, partnership, and community engagement.
What We Do
Our mission is to enhance and protect the natural resources of the South Santiam River watershed for the social, environmental, and economic benefit of all those who live, work, and visit.
Get Involved
Healthy watersheds depend on healthy communities. Whether you are a landowner, student, volunteer, or community member, there are many ways to make a difference in the watershed.
Our Impact
Our work spans the entire South Santiam watershed from the Cascade headwaters to the Willamette Valley. We secure funding for restoration projects, partner with landowners to improve rivers, streams, and riparian habitats, and provide hands-on education that connects people of all ages to the watershed.
For three decades, SSWC has worked with local partners to improve water quality, restore habitat, and strengthen connections between people and the watershed.
Native Plants Installed
Students Engaged
Restoration Projects
