Save the Forest! Ticking Clock May Expire on Vital Oregon Forestland
A vital southern Oregon bio-diverse ecosystem is in danger of permanent destruction if $1.5 million to purchase the property is not raised before the clear-cutting, which is scheduled to begin as early as March 1, 2012.
The Williams Community Forest Project, a local organization that works to promote the stewardship of the Williams valley forest lands by aiding in the restoration and ecological maintenance of forest lands in the Williams watershed through education and recreational programs as well as supporting economically sustainable industry that works in harmony with the forest, is attempting to purchase the 250 acres of vital, private forestland that is scheduled to be destroyed next month. The mountainous region sits between east fork and west fork Williams creek drainages found in the Williams valley forest lands of Southern Oregon.
Sitting at the headwaters of Goodwin Creek, Lone Creek and a spring supplying water to the Sugarloaf Gulch, the property provides a home for local and migrating animals including the Northern Spotted Owl. It’s also a forest full of bioregional herbs and mushrooms, deciduous trees, conifers and cedar trees.
In order to protect the 250 threatened acres, the Williams Community Forest Project is aiming to purchase all 320 acres of the private property that’s part of the biologically diverse Klamath-Siskiyou bio-region. Individuals interested in supporting the preservation of the Oregonian forestland can make a donation or pledge to the WCFP, sign a petition and volunteer to help spread the word about this timely initiative and important piece of land.
To find out more, please visit: http://www.williamscommunityforestproject.org
Keep in touch with Jill on Twitter @jillettinger
Image: Oregon State University
