West Eugene Wetlands Partnershop Honors Individuals, Organizations at Annual Awards Program

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05/24/04 MON 17:51 FAX 541 682 4882 EUGENE PW MNTNC & POS PW ADMIN f~j004 s historically reflective of the restoration site. Perkins also oversaw the gathering of plant materials (seeds, cuttings, etc.) to use for the restoration project. All of the materials came from on-site genetic stock. Perkins worked with youth crews and other crews to maintain the wetland ecosystem as it developed in the years since the initial construction and planting. Perkins has been involved in other wetland restoration projects in west Eugene, including the successful transplanting of a small colony of the endangered Bradshaw's Lvmatium from a development site to a protected site on public park land. As a result of his consulting work, Perkins has helped the private sector to contribute to the conservation goals of the West Eugene Wetlands Partnership. Milton and Mary Decker In 1979, the Decker's purchased a 200-acre parcel near their home. Of this property, 133-acres contained tremendous wildlife and habitat, which he and his family managed, enhanced, and enjoyed through the years. Their children came to understand the local wildlife and other "critters" by growing up exploring, hunting, and horseback riding in what they affectionately refer to as "the swamp." In the last number of years, their grandchildren have been afforded the same wonderful opportunity. In November 2003, the Decker's signed a conservation easement with the McKenzie River Trust for a portion of their property protecting 133 acres of wetlands, wet prairie and riparian habitats. This special land, just north of Fern Ridge reservoir, is adjacent to BLM land and lies in an area that contains remnant intact habitat indicative of what was historically present in the Long Tom watershed. Their willingness to see their land conserved forever is a great gift to their family and their community. The West Eugene Wetlands Partnership honors Milton and Mary Decker for their past effort and strong commitment to conserving their special property. 'The Decker's are one of only two private landowners to be given the Wetlands Appreciation Award by the partnership since the inception of these awards in the late 1990s.