Save the date for a Rigdon Learning Session: Thursday, May 2nd, 9:00 - 12:00, at Greenwaters Park in Oakridge. OSU research scientists James Johnston will present a research update from the Rigdon fire history study followed by a Walama Restoration presentation about 2018 monarch survey results and upcoming field work.

Fire History Study - James Johnston

Managers and stakeholder groups need information about variation in fire disturbance over long time periods in order to craft restoration strategies that create resilient forests and provide for essential ecosystem services. Oregon State University College of Forestry is using tree ring evidence to reconstruct detailed fire histories of different forest types in the Rigdon landscape, ranging from pine savannah to moist old-growth Douglas-fir/western hemlock. Research results will inform the efforts of the Southern Willamette Forest Collaborative (SWFC) and the Forest Service to develop strategies to restore diverse forests stands that are resilient to future change.

Special Habitats - Maya Goklany

Walama Restoration Project conducted 2018 milkweed and monarch butterfly surveys last summer in the Rigdon area. Maya will present survey findings and possible future restoration opportunities. Following the learning session, Walama Restoration is offering a field training for those who are interested in volunteering for 2019 surveys (see description below and attachment for additional dates).