Did you know that coastal prairie is one of the most endangered habitats in Oregon? Due to trifecta of development, woodland encroachment/fire suppression, and invasive plants, less than 1% of Oregon’s original coastal prairies remain. Westwind is looking to change that. We are currently engaged in two multi-year projects to conserve these habitats. At Iris Meadow, we are sustaining and studying our existing coastal prairie habitat. This means protecting it from encroaching non-native invasives and researching the possibility of seed collection. We are also working to restore former ranch land at Fraser Farm to a viable coastal prairie habitat. With support from our partners, we hope this project can become a model for more coastal prairie habitat restoration.
Coastal prairies are vital
Coastal prairies are fragile, yet incredibly important habitats in the coastal ecosystem. They are made up of an incredible biodiversity of native flowers and grasses like Oregon Coast Paintbrush, Bristly-stemmed Checker Mallow, and Oregon Iris. These plants are essential breeding grounds for the endangered Oregon Silverspot Butterfly. While we have not observed the OSB at Iris Meadow, it appears to be an ideal habitat for them. Coastal prairie plants also develop deep root systems that can help prevent erosion. Which will protect the larger forests that typically lie behind them.
Institute for Applied Ecology
On this project, we work in close collaboration with the Institute for Applied Ecology (IAE). IAE is our chief scientific and ecological consultant on this project and is responsible for conducting the planning that is guiding our work. We began working with IAE in 2019 when they identified Iris Meadow as one of the best examples of a coastal prairie habitat. This began a multi-step project beginning with careful surveys and is now moving into the action phase.
Now, we are thrilled to announce that we have secured a new round of funding from another one of our close partners, the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB). OWEB will support IAE’s work at Iris Meadow and Fraser Farm through 2032. Having these close partnerships and long-term sources of funding ensures that Westwind can see our conservation work through and protect our ecosystems in perpetuity.
How you can support
While we are thankful to have secured funding from OWEB for our coastal prairie habitat restoration work, those funds will go directly to IAE to continue their incredible work. That is why we need your support. This work requires monthly, weekly, and at times, daily attention from Westwind staff. By becoming a monthly sustainer, you can help provide the necessary time, tools, and resources to protect these vital habitats. Sustainers are the backbone of ensuring that we can continue to conserve Westwind for generations to come.