Forging New Paths: Exciting Partnership to Expand the Wilson River Trail
The State Forests Trust of Oregon is excited to announce anew partnership with Trailkeepers of Oregon (TKO) to develop a new 5-mile segment of the Wilson River Trail. The Trust is investing $40,000 to support this important project, which will extend the trail from Idiot Creek Loop Road to Drift Creek Trailhead. This new section, designed and managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry's Recreation, Education and Interpretation (REI) Program, will provide non-motorized users with stunning creek and forest vistas, far from the noise of Highway 6.
Representatives from Oregon Department of Forestry, Trailkeepers of Oregon and State Forests Trust of Oregon meet to walk the flag-line for the extension
To complete the work, TKO will be hosting over 60 trail party events, consisting of 6-12 participants, for a total of 3,000+ volunteer hours given for the project. Each trail party will develop 50-100 feet of new trail, addressing various complexities such as cross-slope, soil type, and weather. TKO has committed that at least 10% of these events will be inclusive of people from underrepresented identities, including LGBTQ+ and all-women trail parties.
In partnership with the Trust and other organizations, TKO will also host 5-10 training and outreach events starting this fall. These events will encourage volunteer recruitment, provide unique training opportunities, and focus on donor engagement to support fundraising efforts.
One of the bridges ODF has installed for the extension
Because the REI program is funded primarily by a portion of timber revenues, it partners with the Trust and community groups like TKO to help maintain and expand facilities and trails on our state forests. The total cost for this project is forecasted to be approximately $70,000 the Trust and TKO plan to apply for grants and conduct fundraising activities to complete the planned trail extension.
To support the expansion of the Wilson River Trail extension, visit Trailkeepers of Oregon to find out about volunteer opportunities or make a gift to the State Forests Trust of Oregon’s Recreation Fund. Together, we can make this dream a reality and create lasting connections within our community.
Joe Offer Becomes Interim Manager
for ODF’s Recreation, Education & Interpretation (REI)Program
With the departure of Laura Fredrickson at the end of August, ODF has named Joe Offer as the Interim REI Program Manager. A native Oregonian, Joe has extensive experience in the natural resources field and recreation management. And in his three years with ODF, he has gained a comprehensive understanding of the REI Program. For more information about all that Joe brings to his new position, read our profile of him in our November2023 newsletter. Please help us welcome Joe to his new role.
Programs at the Tillamook Forest Center
Visitors of all ages can connect with nature add learn about Oregon's iconic working forests by visiting the Tillamook Forest Center. Check out this month's activities including: 'Skullduggery', 'Beautiful Butterflies', 'Water Wonders', 'Killer Birds' Fire Lookouts', 'Scat' and 'Smith Homestead'. If you appreciate these types of programs at the Center, learn how you can lend your support here.
Camp Hosts Make the Experience
Camp hosts are essential to enriching the visitor experience at Oregon state forest campgrounds by offering valuable information and ensuring everyone’s safety. These dedicated volunteers create a warm and welcoming atmosphere, greatly enhancing the enjoyment and satisfaction of all campers. Below is a summary of last season’s camp host contributions. Next time you meet one of our hosts, be sure to thank them for all they do!
Imagine leaving a lasting impact on Oregon’s state forests!
For the past 25 years, the State Forests Trust of Oregon(formerly Tillamook Forest Heritage Trust) has been dedicated to preserving and enhancing Oregon’s state forests. By making a legacy gift, you can extend this important work into the next 25 years, supporting the Tillamook Forest Center and improving recreation facilities and programs for all Oregonians.
Your bequest will ensure that future generations continue to enjoy and learn from these treasured resources. Whether you choose to support educational programs or enhance recreational opportunities, your legacy gift will leave a meaningful mark on Oregon’s forest heritage. Consider the legacy you want to create. For more information, contact kelly.lau@stateforeststrust.org.
