Western Rivers Conservancy
$50,000  Klamath Mountains 

The Klamath-Siskiyou Ecoregion is one of the most unique and visually stunning locations in the Pacific Northwest. Its variability in elevation, geology, climate, precipitation, and physical connection with the Pacific Ocean makes the Klamath-Siskiyou region one of the most biologically diverse places on Earth. Unsurprisingly, the stunning features and rich diversity of the region attract both year-round residents and seasonal visitors.

Here, WRC is working to conserve the 1,974-acre Madrone Ridge property adjacent to the city of Ashland and the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest (RRSNF). Acquisition and conveyance to the city of Ashland for permanent conservation will protect Ashland's drinking watershed and buffer it and the city itself from potentially catastrophic wildfire impacts. WRC will convey the property to the City of Ashland, preventing development in a sensitive area, protecting important habitat for threatened fish and wildlife, the city’s drinking water supply, and enhancing recreation opportunities on the property and Wrights Creek, an ephemeral tributary of the Rogue River.

Madrone Ridge is emblematic of the rich biodiversity found within the Cascade-Siskiyou landscape and provides outstanding wildlife habitat for a number of Oregon Conservation Strategy Species, including the northern spotted owl, pacific fisher, Townsend’s big-eared bat and Western pond turtle, among others. The property is located within the Siskiyou Crest Conservation Opportunity Area, and one of the primary concerns in this COA is the loss of habitat connectivity due to development. ODFW identifies conservation acquisitions as a key tool for mitigating this concern. Finally, public access is not currently allowed on Madrone Ridge despite its proximity to urban areas and existing trail networks. Accordingly, conserving the property presents a unique opportunity to expand recreational access and increase trail connectivity between downtown Ashland and the RRSNF.