Healthy watersheds are built through strong partnerships. As a non-regulatory and non-governmental organization, the South Santiam Watershed Council works one-on-one with landowners to develop voluntary restoration projects that improve the health of rivers, streams, and forests while supporting the long-term stewardship of properties.

Our staff can help identify opportunities, connect you with technical expertise, and secure funding to make projects possible. Whether you're looking to restore stream habitat, improve water quality, reduce erosion, or enhance the resilience of your property, we're here to help guide you through the process.

We regularly assist landowners with projects such as:

• Planting native trees and shrubs to restore streamside habitat and provide shade for healthier waterways.
• Improving fish passage by replacing aging culverts or removing barriers that prevent native fish from reaching important habitat.
• Reducing erosion and stabilizing streambanks to protect property and improve water quality.
• Enhancing wildlife habitat through riparian restoration and in-stream habitat improvements.
• Supporting beaver coexistence by helping landowners address conflicts while maintaining the ecological benefits beavers provide.
• Connecting landowners with grant funding to help cover the cost of eligible restoration projects.

Every property is unique, and we work closely with landowners to develop solutions that reflect their goals, their land, and the needs of the watershed. Participation is always voluntary, non-regulatory, and there is no cost to discuss opportunities with our staff.