In January 2021, Marion SWCD partnered with the North Santiam Watershed Council to host the third annual Plan for Your Land class series. Twelve hours of conservation education were provided via Zoom to over 20 living rooms. Attendees learned about conservation from the ground up: starting with soil and working up to entire ecosystems.

Speakers came from partner organizations including the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA), OSU Extension Service, Department of State Lands (DSL), Oregon Department of Fish & Wildlife (ODFW), and more.

Participants received personalized maps of their properties and personal assistance including site visits from SWCD technicians. At the end of the class, each has developed a conservation plan individualized for their property and their needs. Some attendees go on to apply for funding through the SWCD or a partner agency.

The SWCD is already planning to host the next round of Plan for Your Land classes near the Howell Prairie Creek-Pudding Rivers Watershed near Silverton and Mt. Angel. More information will be coming soon