Deschutes Resources Council and The Wetlands Conservancy
In collaboration with The Wetlands Conservancy and Deschutes Resources Council, Vigil-Agrimis, Inc. completed a study identifying priority sites for wetlands restoration and conservation in the Deschutes Basin. We used available GIS coverage of hydric soils, rivers and canals, National Wetland Inventory, GAP vegetation data, land use, ownership, and roads to locate wetlands with high function potential in areas where threats to those resources exist or are developing. Seven key areas were identified using 6th Field HUCs. Road density analysis was performed at this scale as a predictor of wetland function loss. Further investigation of these areas included a combination of aerial reconnaissance and site visits. The findings of this project are being used to identify opportunities for wetland potential mitigation banks and to help fund the restoration and conservation of wetlands.
