Oregon Watershed Councils, as defined by state statute and administrative rules, are voluntary, non-regulatory groups focused on watershed restoration and enhancement. They are established locally by a county governing body, representing a balance of interested and affected persons within a watershed. Councils must demonstrate a connection to the state's watershed enhancement goals and have a formal structure, including a Council Action Plan and bylaws or a charter.
Here's a breakdown of the key requirements and considerations for Oregon Watershed Councils:
- Establishment and Recognition:
• Local Government Designation: Councils are formed through a local government decision, often a county commission, who designates the council's geographic area.
• Voluntary and Non-Regulatory: Watershed councils are voluntary groups, not regulatory bodies.
• Broad Representation: They must represent a balance of interested and affected persons within the watershed.
- Organizational Structure and Operations:
• Council Action Plans
Councils are required to have a Council Action Plan that identifies and prioritizes ecological problems within the watershed and outlines planned restoration, enhancement, monitoring, and community engagement activities.
• Bylaws or Charter:
The council's governing documents (bylaws or charter) must include specific elements such as a mission aligned with OWEB, governing body selection, officer roles, and a process for amendments.
• Minimum Population
The geographic area covered by the council must have a minimum population of 500 individuals.
• Fiscal Sponsorship.
Councils must be registered with the state, have a fiscal sponsorship agreement with a 501(c)(3) organization, or with a Soil and Water Conservation District, city, county, or tribal government.
• Geographic Area:
A council can cover the same or a larger area than a pre-existing council or group of councils. - State Oversight and Support:
• Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB):
OWEB provides guidance and support to watershed councils and may fund projects.
• Grant Programs:
OWEB offers various grant programs to support watershed councils' activities, including engagement, monitoring, and restoration projects.
• Reporting:
Funded projects must report to the Oregon Watershed Restoration Inventory (OWRI). - Key Activities:
• Watershed Assessment:
Councils assess watershed conditions to identify problems and opportunities.
• Restoration and Enhancement Projects:
Councils implement projects that restore, enhance, and protect watersheds.
• Community Engagement:
Councils engage with local communities and landowners to promote participation and awareness.
• Monitoring:
Councils conduct monitoring activities to track progress and evaluate project effectiveness. - Collaboration and Partnerships:
• Local, State, and Federal Partners:
Councils collaborate with various agencies and organizations to achieve their goals.
• Diverse Stakeholders:
They involve a range of stakeholders, including local officials, landowners, and community members.
• Working with Tribes:
The state's watershed management program encourages partnerships with federally recognized Indian tribes
