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      • Conservation Awards

      In 2010, Yamhill Soil and Water Conservation District (YSWCD) will  offer three awards recognizing extraordinary achievement in voluntary conservation practices and education.   Through their example, award winners inspire other landowners and help the general public better understand the vital role private citizens can and do play in conservation success.  These three awards include the George E. Otte Conservation Landowner Award, which recognizes excellence in private land stewardship.  The Urban Conservationist Award for innovation and implementation of conservation practices in an urban land setting.  Lastly, the Frieda L. Miller Conservation Educator Award which recognizes the dedication and contribution of educators to the future of conservation.  These awards will be presented October 13th, 2010 at YSWCD’s annual meeting.

      Conservation Educator Award: Application(.doc)or PDF

      Landowner of the Year Award: Application (.doc)or PDF 

      Urban Conservationist Award: Application (.doc) or PDF
      Nominations are due August 20th, 2010 at 5 PM
      Email nomination materials to:  Tim Stieber

      Or Mail: Attention: Tim Stieber, Executive Director
      Yamhill Soil and Water Conservation District
      2200 SW Second Street
      McMinnville, OR 97128

      Past Awards

         Download: Cooperator of the Year 2009
         Download: Cooperator of the Year 2008
         Download: Cooperator of the Year 2007

      Conservation Planning

      To develop formal plans you can contact the Yamhill SWCD office or hire a professional planner.

      For more information on conservation planning please call Michael Crabtree at (503) 472-1474 x118.

      Conservation Planning Weblink: Click Here

      What is conservation planning and why is it important?

      Conservation planning is a systematic, dynamic process that helps landowners develop the goals and methods they need to effectively manage the natural resources on their property.


      What types of conservation plans are there?

      Informal plans: Developed by landowners, with minimal assistance from outside agencies. Informal plans are invaluable in getting landowners acquainted with their property and may save them time if they decide to pursue formal plans with Soil and Water Conservation Districts, the Natural Resource Conservation Service, or a private consultant.

      Formal plans: Developed with the aid of a professional planner for the purpose of becoming eligible for cost share programs, or to meet or show compliance with state or federal regulations. Usually these are detailed plans that cover a five-year period.



      How do I develop a plan?

      Low cost “First Step Conservation Planning” workshops can be valuable in helping you develop your own informal plan. The Yamhill SWCD also has CD ROMs available that you can use to guide you step by step through the planning process. The workshops and/or the CDs will take you through a practical nine-step planning process:


      Step 1 – Identify Opportunities or Concerns
      Step 2 – Identify Your Goals
      Step 3 – Inventory Resources
      Step 4 – Analyze Resources
      Step 5 – Develop Alternatives
      Step 6 – Evaluate Alternatives
      Step 7 – Make Decisions
      Step 8 – Implement Plan
      Step 9 – Evaluate Plan and Make Adjustments as Necessary