East Fork Amazon Headwaters; OPRD Local Govt Grant 2008

New Search

water system and to flood control efforts in contrast to costs that would be incurred if the parcel is devel- oped. Environmental benefits: Benefits gained through acquisition extend far beyond the parcel itself. Acquisi- tion will protect one of the largest intact natural areas remaining in private ownership in Eugene's South Hills. It will provide a diversity of high quality habitat types and will protect an area that is home to two rare plant species and has good potential habitat for several other endangered plant and animal species. It will serve as a wildlife refuge to an increasingly large natural reserve and as a corridor to rural lands out- side the UGB. By preserving headwater streams of the West Eugene Wetlands, this acquisition will strengthen and enhance existing work by West Eugene Wetlands Partnership to restore habitat and ecologi- cal functioning of the watershed. Development of a trail will direct access to appropriate areas and protect the more sensitive habitats. Protection of the headwater streams will help preserve water quality and the health of the entire stream corridor. Educational benefits: There are multiple opportunities to provide educational benefits, including in- formal and programmed activities. Passive recreation activities provide an optimal opportunity for education. Informal education can be accomplished through a comprehensive interpretive system which directs the installation of interpretive signage, artwork, and interventions at key points along the Ridgeline trail. Topics may include plants, wildlife, geology, watershed health, human history, and on- going habitat management efforts. More structured education opportunities exist due to the presence of top -notch local organizations that specialize in environmental education. The Willamette Resources Education Network (WREN) and Nearby Nature are two local non - profits that focus specifically on environmental education. As a member of the West Eugene Wetlands Partnership, WREN develops programs and facilitates experi- ences that educate individuals and increase personal and community awareness. WREN has now reached more than 15,000 participants through school programs and interpretive programs for children and adults. Nearby Nature is a non - profit education group dedicated to fostering appreciation of na- ture and providing tools for ecological living. Staff and volunteers lead nature walks, teach summer day camps, host school programs, and work on environmental restoration projects. Nearby Nature is also a partner in the Network Charter School, offering hands -on learning as an alternative to traditional high school curriculum. Additional objectives of the Ridgeline system include providing direct trail connections from nearby schools where feasible so they can more easily utilize the area as an educational resource. Tapping into other organizations and agencies such as Rachel Carson High School, Long Tom Watershed Council, University of Oregon, and Lane Community College will promote and improve the Ridgeline Area as an educational resource. The City of Eugene's recent efforts to acquire and protect the headwaters of Amazon Creek have been un- dertaken with the support of many planning studies and much public encouragement: 2003 -2007 Oregon Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. The top four recreation activities of in -state residents identified by SCORP will be enhanced by acquisition of this parcel: running/walking for exercise; nature /wildlife observation; walking for pleasure; and bird watching. These activities are also within the top six for out -of -state visitors. This parcel will also provide good opportunities for outdoor photography, another popular activity.