These reports summarize conservation planning and habitat accomplishments in the Oregon portion of SONEC (Southern Oregon-Northeastern California) for the Working Wet Meadows Initiative (WWMI). Specific conservation planning and habitat objectives are identified in the Oregon SONEC Business Plan.

The SONEC landscape is a unique region that has been identified as a continentally important migration and breeding area for birds moving along the Pacific Flyway. Comprised of eight counties across Oregon, California, and Nevada, this is some of the most productive land on the continent for livestock and wetland birds. Since 75 percent of all freshwater emergent wetlands in SONEC are privately owned, these private lands are essential to strategic bird conservation efforts. Flood irrigation in historic floodplains, haying, and grazing create the ideal setting for these birds. Traditional agricultural practices mimic the seasonal flooding that occurred before European settlement. The SONEC region can support over 4.8 million dabbling ducks for an estimated 21 days during the spring migration. Without this critical habitat during the spring migration these birds would suffer a higher mortality rate and reduced ability to produce ducklings at their breeding grounds.

SONEC Quarterly Reports

SONEC Five-Year Report