The last unprotected stretch of Oregon’s Winchuck River within the Siskiyou National Forest is now in permanent protection. Western Rivers Conservancy completed conveyance of the land on the Winchuck’s east fork, including excellent Chinook salmon spawning areas and a notable tributary called Wheeler Creek. The land is now part of the surrounding Siskiyou National Forest, with convenient public access for hiking and wildlife viewing.
The Winchuck River tumbles out of the Siskiyou Mountains to join the Pacific Ocean. Tucked in the very southwest corner of Oregon, its watershed is home to most of Oregon’s last remaining redwood forests, including stands of giant, old-growth redwoods. The river supports healthy coastal runs of steelhead, sea-run cutthroat trout, chinook and coho salmon.
The protected land includes a large floodplain forest, wetlands, and key habitat for two birds that depend on large trees: marbled murrelet and spotted owl. Directly nearby is the historic Ludlum House, a popular site for visitors to rent overnight cabins.
From a species perspective, the property is spectacular. More salamander species live in this area than any other on the West Coast, including the Del Norte’s salamander. Northern river otter, osprey, bald eagle, yellow-legged frog and four sensitive bat species also make their home here.
Western Rivers Conservancy will work with the Siskiyou national Forest to ensure that this beautiful example of an intact forest is preserved, upholding its special recreational values and enhancing the health of the greater watershed.
