The Conservation Working Group sponsors forums on conservation topics, connects practitioners in conservation fields, and launches projects based on the Regional Conservation Strategy.
Two working groups have formed. One is tackling habitat connectivity and corridors (Lori Hennings, Metro, lori.hennings@oregonmetro.gov, 503-797-1940). Another is discussing pollinator issues, including approaches to pollinator monitoring (Katy Weil, Metro, katy.weil@oregonmetro.gov, 503-797-1688) and connecting patches of pollinator habitat (Janelle St. Pierre, Portland Parks & Recreation, Janelle.St.Pierre@portlandoregon.gov, 503-823-4439).
We are very excited to share the results of the Pollinator Best Management Practices meeting held in early August. Many thanks to Janelle St. Pierre, for being a super organizer, and the Samara Group for volunteering to co-facilitate the meeting and for compiling the notes, and to Metro for hosting. This was an opportunity to gather a tremendous amount of information (30+ pages worth) on what people are thinking about and working on for pollinators, on both a regional and state level. I have provided a synthesis to give an overview of the discussion and identify potential next steps in this evolving conversation. The project list is amazing and demonstrates the wide variety of efforts that individuals and groups are working on to benefit pollinators. What’s even more incredible is that the list is just a sample of current efforts. Please review the synthesis and respond to this Google Poll by October 13 to be part of the next stage in this conversation. We are looking at the level of interest in forming (and leading) working groups to follow-up on some themes identified in this and other pollinator discussions. -Bruce Barbarasch
A seven-member steering committee meets on an as-needed basis to provide direction, ideas and support to conservation projects. Feel free to contact co-chairs Bruce Barbarasch, Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District (503-614-1214, bbarbara@thprd.org) or Jonathan Soll, Metro (503-797-1727, Jonathan.Soll@oregonmetro.gov).
PAST CONSERVATION FORUMS
July 21, 2016: Conservation Priority Info Exchange
April 27, 2016: Corridors & Connectivity
Jan. 21, 2016: Pollinators