Our Work
The South Santiam Watershed Council works alongside schools, local governments, nonprofits, businesses, and community members to create opportunities for education, stewardship, restoration, and resilience. Together, we're building a healthier watershed and stronger communities.
Watershed Restoration
The South Santiam Watershed Council partners with landowners, communities, and local organizations to restore healthy rivers, streams, and floodplains throughout the watershed.
- Restore streamside forests by planting native trees and shrubs that improve water quality and provide shade.
- Reconnect rivers by improving fish passage to spawning and rearing habitat for native fish.
- Enhance habitat through in-stream restoration and riparian improvements that support healthy aquatic ecosystems.
- Support beaver coexistence by helping landowners manage conflicts while promoting the natural benefits beavers provide for water storage, habitat, and resilience.
Learning & Education
We have a strong commitment to both youth and adult education programs. Our organization works with over 650 students from across Linn County annually. These programs occur throughout the South Santiam Watershed and are supported by local and regional organizations
- Salmon Watch schools from across Linn County come to the South Santiam River to participate in our fall outdoor environmental education program centered around salmon ecology.
- Outdoor School is a 3-day, 2-night event after Memorial Day where sixth-grade students from Sweet Home learn in the great outdoors.
- Plan For Your Land Workshop is a series for landowners that provides resources and workshops on implementing restoration projects on private land.
Wildfire Resilience
The South Santiam Watershed Council is a proud partner of Wildfire Ready Linn County, working with local organizations and residents to build safer, more resilient communities.
Our work includes:
- Free home assessments to identify ways to improve wildfire preparedness, including home hardening, landscaping, and access.
- Workshops and training that provide practical guidance on defensible space, home hardening, and fuels reduction.
- Community events and outreach that connect residents with local programs, resources, and support for long-term wildfire resilience.
Community Stewardship
The South Santiam Watershed Council brings people together through hands-on stewardship, educational events, and opportunities to explore the watershed.
Our opportunities include:
- Volunteer work parties where participants plant native vegetation, remove invasive species, and restore habitat throughout the watershed.
- Educational events including site tours, workshops, guest speakers, and film screenings that inspire learning and stewardship.
- Community stewardship activities that encourage people of all ages to connect with local rivers, forests, and natural spaces while making a lasting difference.
