From the Chair

By Martin Kerns

End of the year articles should be easy – you just summarize what was accomplished throughout the year and you are done. However, what is ahead may be even more important.

Yes, the District has a lot to brag about with a very smooth year, thanks to all the hard work from the staff. Keeping two no-till drills delivered and working properly was no small feat. Then there was the time and effort required in putting together the pump-testing program sponsored by Pacific Power. This program got off to a great start and testing will begin again in the spring and continue on through next summer. The CREP program has become very popular and interest in stream bank enhancement keeps growing.

Along with these programs, our participation in the EQIP program is ongoing. Each year we can expect some changes, but so far none have been publicized. Also through the NRCS, the Conservation Security Program (CSP) will be coming to a certain basin within our jurisdiction. There are stringent qualifications under this program in order to receive payments. I’m sure all needed information will soon be forthcoming from the NRCS.

Looking ahead, the power rate change still has not been settled; so let me reiterate: start now planning how you can conserve your electrical usage. This red flag will not go away and only the most efficient producers will be able to stay profitable.

It has been tough to make juniper removal pay under either the EQIP or Oregon Small Grant’s Programs. However, we believe removing juniper is beneficial so we hope a better program can be put together. As it now stands, burning the debris can cause a huge liability.

With the higher than normal moisture we’ve received this fall, next year’s growing season should have an adequate advantage due to deep soil moisture. For this, we should all take time and give thanks. But do remember 2006 will come with some even different problems – so stay focused!