No Board Meetings Held in July or August.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for June 10, 2008

• Budget Update: The Watershed Education Reserve Fund was discussed. A motion was made and approved for the following criteria for the Long Range Plan and Project Application Procedure. Grantees may apply for no more than $2,000 annually and will be asked to provide a 25% match, either in-kind or cash. Gary asked the staff to work with schools as soon as possible to get the word out about the funding opportunity.
• Watershed Updates:
• Watershed Updates
• Amanda Whitman, the new Watershed Coordinator began work on Monday June 9th.
  North Sherman: There is nothing new to report at this time.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Jason is working on the budget and planning for projects using BPA funding.
  Grass Valley: Brian continues working with the people from the raceway. He is advising on erosion control measures that will prevent them from creating new water quality issues. The survey of the Lower Grass Valley Canyon has begun and the aerial flight will be done as soon as weather permits.
  South Sherman (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): There is nothing new to report.
• Grant Updates:
  ODA Weed Grant: Biological Control Insects have been ordered. Landowners have been contacted and reminded to get spraying done and bills turned in to the SWCD office.
  BPA Technical Assistance Funding: Jason reported that the contracting is nearly complete for the technical assistance funding grant.
  OWEB Applications: A request for projects from landowners will be included in the summer newsletter. Interested landowners can contact one of the technicians by September 2nd in order to complete an estimate.
  2009 Annual Work Plan & Workload Analysis: A motion was made to approve the 2009 Annual Work Plan, Workload Analysis, and ODA Statement of Work and Budget. Motion carried unanimously.
• Display Booth for County Fair: The Board asked the employees to develop ideas for a display booth at the fair. They would like to include the South Sherman Elementary greenhouse project. NRCS will share the booth.
• NRCS Report: NRCS: Kristie reported there is a second EQIP sign up is in progress with a deadline of June 20th. Dana Higgins, a student trainee, will be arriving for work June 23rd; she will be here for three months. The new Farm Bill has passed, but information about programs is still coming. Kristie reminded everyone about the Experiment Station Field Day coming up on June 11th.
• FSA Report: FSA: Sheri reported that changes will be coming for payment limitations. The procedures have not been set yet. CRP grazing or haying sign ups are open; there is a $75 fee and a revised plan is required. Sign up for new farm programs will start in July.
• OACD: Information from the OACD committee was reviewed. A motion was made to pay the dues beginning in 2009. Any increase in payments will need to be authorized by the Board. Motion passed unanimously.
• Lower John Day "Working Group": Gary will be attending meetings of this working group. Gary asked the board for approval to form an educational partnership with Gilliam and Wheeler County SWCDs. A motion was made for Gary to write a letter of explanation to the three SWCDs and return with information about possible proposals. Motion passed unanimously.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for May 6, 2008

• Budget Update: A Budget Committee meeting was held on April 30th at 6:00pm. The board reviewed the documents developed and agreed to meet with the budget committee again on May 13th if publication notices can be completed by then. The Budget Hearing is tentatively set for June 10th at 7:30am before the District Board meeting. The Watershed Education Reserve Fund was discussed. A long-range plan for the fund will be developed. A modified grant application format will be made available for educational project funding. Outdoor School for county sixth graders and transportation costs for natural resource related field trips were the priority projects for funding that the Board discussed.
• Watershed Updates:
• Watershed Updates
• Watershed Coordinator Position: The Board reviewed the three applications that have been received and one from the file. The Board would like to keep the job open at this point; they also discussed the possibility of interviewing the candidates. Other options were offering the job with a six month probation period or looking for a college student as a temporary employee for the summer while keeping the job open.
  North Sherman: Projects are being completed using OWEB and EQIP funds. Jason and Brian continue to consult with landowners about conservation practice repairs needed due to wind tower construction.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Jason is still working on the BPA contract; he has several landowners requesting an assortment of projects.
  Grass Valley: Projects are being completed using OWEB and EQIP funds. Brian will be working with Bankfull Solutions from Jefferson County on the data gathering and planning stage of the Lower Grass Valley Canyon project.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): Brian completed the monitoring photos for OWEB Phase 8 of the Buck Hollow project.
• Grant Updates:
  OWEB Grant: The OWEB grant for Precision Ag was submitted in April.
  Small Grants: Brian and Jason are working with landowners to complete projects.
• John Day River Update: Gilliam County SWCD and the Mid-Columbia Economic Development District are sponsoring a two day Watershed Partnership meeting in Gilliam and Wheeler Counties on May 13th and 14th. Brian and Jason both plan to attend.
• Deschutes River Update: Nothing new to report.
• Education Projects: Krista reported that some teachers requested that we postpone our poster contest until fall. This will work fine for staff; information will go out to teachers in September. The South Sherman Elementary plant project is going very well. Plants will be ready soon for local planting and up for sale to the public.
• OACD Meeting: None of the directors were able to attend. Patricia Gainsforth called to say that she will get information to the Board about what happened at the meeting. She also asked Board members to consider someone to take her position as Deschutes/Hood River Basin Chair.
• New Business: The annual steak & oyster feed was discussed and the decision was made to cancel it for this year.
• NRCS Report: NRCS: Kristie reported that NRCS is working with the Extension Service, ODA and the Weed District to put on a Riparian Grazing Management Workshop. She asked for volunteers or suggestions for a location for the workshop for a site visit. Kristie is still working with Sandy Macnab and Paul Jepson on Integrated Pest Management. The Experiment Field Station Long Term Plot Field Day will be May 13th; she is doing Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation (RUSLE2) runs on the plots. She will be a presenter at the Field Day. The Moro and Redmond offices will be sharing a NRCS trainee this summer. Kristie would like to have her write a range plan while she is here.
• FSA Report: FSA: Sheri Carlson, acting CED, reported that the Farm Bill extensions allowed two more producers to complete their sign up for CREP. Kevin MacIntyre had reported to her that he had attended recent meetings in Washington DC and the new Farm Bill should be done by Friday of this week.
• Tree Plot: Kyle offered to arrange several volunteers from the high school to clean up the Bill Todd Memorial Tree Plot. Students are required to donate volunteer hours to the community. He will get the paperwork to Krista as soon as the job is completed.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for April 8, 2008, 2008

• Watershed Coordinator Position: Krista reported that in the 2 months that the job has been advertised three applications have been received.
• Stewardship Week: North Sherman Elementary and Sherman Junior/Senior High School have ordered educational materials for Stewardship Week. Jessa and Krista will deliver the materials when they arrive.
• Newsletter: Jessa has nearly completed the Spring newsletter.
• Watershed Updates:
• Watershed Updates SWCD has been assisting with a large number of EQIP and OWEB projects in all of the watershed areas.
  South Sherman: Brian is working on Buck Hollow Phase 8 monitoring photos.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Jason participated in the Redd survey today; he noted four Redd sites on the portion he walked. ODFW will report back to us regarding the portion they surveyed. Jason has been assisting landowners with plans for BPA projects. Requests have been received for projects including spring developments, solar/wind hybrid water developments, water and sediment control basins, and a well.
  Grass Valley: Brian presented information about the Technical Assistance grant for the lower reach of Grass Valley Canyon. The aerial flight for photos has been arranged and should come in under budget. Jefferson County program manager, Adam Haarberg has proposed that his LLC called Bankfull Solutions do the data gathering for the project. Motion carried unanimously.
  North Sherman Watershed: Brian continues to work with the tower companies and landowners to repair any effects of tower construction.
• Grant Updates:
  OWEB Grant: The reallocation of OWEB funds is working well. Many projects are being completed. Jason is preparing the Precision Ag OWEB application for the April 21st deadline. All participants in the Weed Grant have contacted the office and will be treating weeds this spring. No new OWEB small grants have been applied for, there is a waiting list if more funds come available.
• John Day River & Deschutes River Updates: Link Shadley of Mid Columbia Economic Development District presented the Lower John Day Basin Conservation Project list that has been developed by local landowners, farmers and government agencies over the last year. There are twenty projects that are proposed for economic support. On May 13th-14th there will be a Watershed Conference in Condon to bring together foundations and conservation organizations to see the work that is being done in Gilliam, Wheeler and Sherman Counties.
• 2008 Annual Work Plan & Workload Analysis: Krista has begun revising and updating both. The board agreed that Bill will review both for the June meeting.
• NRCS Report: NRCS: Kristie reported the EQIP sign-up deadline has been set for October 3, 2008. NRCS is being audited on EQIP fund expenditures especially if the contracts aren't completed in a timely manner. A Quality Assurance Review will happen here on May 15th. The Local Work Group meeting date was set for May 6th at 7:00 am here at the office. There has been landowner interest in a program that might assist with pasture/crop rotation alternatives. Gary and Jessa attended a Riparian Grazing Workshop in Wheeler County sponsored by NRCS. Kristie inquired if there might be interest in Sherman County for a similar workshop. The idea of sponsoring a RUSLE2 workshop for local producers was also proposed.
• OSU Extension: Sandy reminded everyone about the Marketing meeting on April 10th at 7:00 am. He talked more about the Long Term Plot tour on May 13th at the Sherman County Experiment Station.
• OWEB Regions: Word was received from OWEB that a new region (region 6) has been formed. This region includes Sherman, part of Wasco, Hood River, Jefferson, Gilliam, Wheeler, Grant, Morrow and Umatilla Counties. A new Regional Program Representative will be hired by OWEB for region 6; this transition will be completed over the next year.
• OACD Board Meeting: The OACD will be holding a Board of Districts meeting in Roseburg on May 4th-5th.
• Deschutes Basin Partnership Roundtable Session: The event is scheduled for April 29th at 8:00 am in Prineville.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for March 11, 2008, 2008

• Budget Committee: The Board reviewed the rough draft of the budget. There is one grant at this time that has not been approved for funding. A Budget Committee meeting will be set for the end of March or the first of April depending on publication timing of the notice.
• Watershed Updates:
• Watershed Updates
  South Sherman: Letters were sent out to landowners in the watershed proposing the umbrella council idea for all Sherman County watersheds.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: The watershed council met and they voted to join the umbrella council for Sherman County watersheds. BPA funding was discussed, landowners were askedto request projects as soon as possible. The Redd count survey will happen in cooperation with ODFW on April 8th.
  Grass Valley: A quorum was not present at the planned meeting date, no decisions made.
  North Sherman: The watershed council met and they voted to join the umbrellla council for Sherman County watersheds. Funding opportunities were discussed and landowners were reminded to apply for project requests to the SWCD by April 1st. Brian developed a brochure addressing the issues that have come to pass due to ground disturbance by wind tower construction. The brochure is very informative and has been distributed from the office.
• Grant Updates: The Noxious Weed Grant application that was submitted to the Oregon State Weed Board and was approved for funding.
• Education Projects: Jessa has taken over the education projects. South Sherman Elementary has requested assistance with a project to involved students in a "hands on" learning experience. The scope of the project includes updating the green house and purchasing supplies and plants for the City of Grass Valley and the Senior Center in Moro to use in the planters.
• ODA: Tom Straughan reported that OWEB has proposed establishing another region for grant management, this would make six regions for Oregon. He wasn't sure which region Sherman County would be in.
• FSA: Sheri reported that the new Farm Bill has not passed yet but there is a possibility of an extension.
• OSU Extension: Sandy reported that the extension office may be moving downstairs in this building by fall of this year.
• Camelina Workshop: The Camelina Oil Seed Workshop sponsored by the SWCD and Wy'East RC&D was held at the Senior Center in Moro on March 6th. The workshop was very informative. MCP does not plan to offer storage or transportation for Camelina at this time.
• Local Budget Law Training: Krista and Brian will be attending this training on March 20th in Hood River.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for February 12, 2008

• Watershed Coordinator: The job announcement for Watershed Council Coordinator has been sent to several local newspapers for publication.
• Watershed Updates:
• Watershed Updates: The Board discussed the transition to an Umbrella Council for Sherman County watersheds. Each current council would still serve in an advisory capacity for the Umbrella Council and would send representation to those meetings. The main advantages to the councils would be less meetings and less administrative responsibility.
• Grant Updates: The reallocation of unused funds for OWEB grants were reviewed and approved. Two Small OWEB grant applications were discussed and approved unanimously. The revised landowner agreement, which includes the pay back requirements if a project is removed before the ten year cotract expires, was discussed and approved unanimously.
• Pine Hollow/Jackknife Assessment: Brian is working on the assessment. Jason and Jessa will assist him as time allows until the Watershed Coordinator position is filled.
• John Day River & Deschutes River Update: A joint meeting of the Lower Deschutes and Lower John Day LACs was held on January 22nd at the Senior Center in Moro. ODA Water Quality Planners, Tom Straughan and Ellen Hammond, gave updates about both management areas. They presented slides showing some areas they see as having water quality issues. The erosion rule in both plans was discussed and it was suggested that the wording be left in the plans, but removed from the rules. Biennial reviews are due next year and the LACs will meet seperately for the reviews, but plan to have a joint annual meeting.
• After Hours Meetings: After Hours meetings have been scheduled for February 29th beginning at 1:00 pm at the Senior Center in Moro and February 21st at 5:00pm at Bill Martin's shop. Staff is still trying to schedule more sessions for February 26th and 28th.
• CREP Update: Jessa reported that she has started on five new contracts. She has completed her RMS plan and has submitted it to the NRCS State Office for review. She has eight site visits planned for CREP projects that will be planted this spring. Jessa has taken on responsibility for the Salmon-Trout Enhancement Program with the schools. She has also found a very nice picture to use for a sign for the SWCD office.
• County Update: Steve Burnet discussed the possible budget increases available for Special Districts. He also discussed the budget short-fall for county roads. He inquired about SWCD and NRCS policies regarding conservation practices that are being affected by wind tower installation. This subject will be discussed at the upcoming Conservation After Hours sessions.
• OSU Extension: Sandy Macnab reminded those present about the Intergrated Pest Management Workshop coming up on February 27th at the fairgrounds. Pesticide credits will be available. There will be a Long-Term Plot Tour at the Experiment Station on May 13th.
• First Aid/CPR Training: Jessa, Krista, Jason and Kristie all received their First Aid & CPR certifications at the training in The Dalles.
• Trees for 4th Graders: A proposal for an educational Arbor Week project was received from "Fourth Grade Foresters" from Lincoln, Nebraska. They asked for District financial assistance in providing a tree to each of the 4th graders in the county. There is a minimum order of 100 trees so they suggested including the 3rd grade classes. The Board said they would approve participation in the project if staff has the time.
• OACD Dues Proposal: OACD presented three options for their proposed increase in annual dues for 2009. The Board would like to know why the increase is so large and what improvements would they see in OACD.
• Gilliam & Wheeler County SWCD Tour: Walter Powell from Gilliam County invited our District to attend a tour in May. They plan to invite personnel from several Foundations in order to show them what local conservation districts do. He will give the District more information when it is available.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for January 8, 2008

• Watershed Updates:
• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: There is nothing new to report.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Assessment: Joli reported that landowner inventory maps were sent out. Individual appointments will be made in the next couple of months. Joli is currently working on the channel habitat types. Contract “Buy back”: A landowner who received cost share funding in May 2003 for a seeding project on 123 acres has asked what the consequences would be if he sod-busts the acres. The landowner agreement that he signed with the district states that he will maintain the project for ten years or pay back the cost share. This has never happened before so the board will set a policy for how to deal with buy backs. Staff will check with funding sources to see how they want to handle the pay back funds. OWEB has indicated that they will want the funds back, but amount was not discussed. A motion was made by Bill and seconded by Kyle stating “If a landowner decides to void the landowner agreement 50% of the project cost plus a prorated (by year) amount must be paid back to the SWCD”. The motion also included revisions to the landowner agreement form stating the buy back policy and adding that the board reserves the right to review any new fund request for cost shared projects on acres or projects that have been “bought back”. Motion carried unanimously. Joli and Krista will revise the landowner agreement form and present it to the board for review.
  Grass Valley: There is nothing new to report.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): There is nothing new to report.
• Grant Updates: OWEB has told Joli that unallocated funds from grants 205-057, 206-123 and 208-4016 may be reallocated to other projects. At this time there is a total of $50,674 available. Several landowners have been in requesting cost share funding. Most of the estimates have been done and a total of over $100,000 is needed to fund their requests. The board discussed how they would like to have the funds allocated. The small grant team set a criteria that projects requesting $5,000 or less can receive a 75% cost share. Projects over $5,000 receive a 50% cost share. They would like staff to use this method for allocating these funds. Any projects that do not get funded can either be included on the OWEB grant application this spring or try for small grant funds.
• Small Grants Update: The Lower Deschutes has $6,029.75 available for projects. The Lower John Day has no funds available at this time.
• Lower John Day & Lower Deschutes Updates: The Lower John Day and Lower Deschutes Local Advisory Committees have scheduled a joint meeting for January 22, 2008, 1 to 3 PM at the Senior Center in Moro.
• Conservation After Hours: The public information session has been set for February 19th. Krista will check to see if the Senior Center is available for a 1:00 meeting. The dates of February 21st, 26th and 28th were tentatively set for the producer sponsored After Hour sessions. Bill Martin, Bryan Cranston and Rory Wilson had said previously that they would like to host meetings. Krista will check with them. Agenda items will include Farm Bill updates, program updates, discussion of CREP processes, watershed updates and possibly watershed council meetings.
• Personnel Manual: Kyle reviewed the draft of a new personnel manual and thought it was an improvement over the current version. Krista will put it together with a table of contents and present it for further review by the board.
• Annual Meeting: The Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday February 12th, 5:00 PM, at the Senior Center in Moro. Rod McGuire has agreed to cater. The board would like Krista to select the menu and talk about price with Rod. A motion was made by Kyle and seconded by Bill to pay at least 50% of the cost of the meals so that guests will not have to pay as much. Motion carried unanimously. Krista will get back to them about the cost per meal. Beer and wine will be sold during the social hour prior to dinner which will be at 6:00 PM. Brian volunteered to take care of the social hour details. Jason has contacted George Taylor, State Climatologist about speaking at the Annual Meeting. He has not heard back from him yet. The agenda was discussed. Bill will begin the meeting as past chair, then will pass duties on to Tracy. Staff will put together some kind of a project display. Annual financial reports will be at each place setting. An award will be purchased for Tom McCoy. Gary Irzyk will make the presentation.
• CREP Update: Jessa reported that she completed four CREP contracts, has one pending FSA approval and one pending landowner decision. She also completed her reporting to OWEB and ODA for the second quarter.
• BLM: Tina Welch reported that BLM is working on a new plan for John Day Basin. One item of interest is the suggestion that operators with allotments be given the option to retire their allotment acres for the life of the plan without losing them to another operator. Sandy is hoping to have Tina included on his agenda for a workshop he is planning.
• OSU Extension: Sandy reported that the Experiment Station is planning a field day for the long term plots this spring. They are also updating the Cost Study and working on an Integrated Pest Management plan with NRCS.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for December 11, 2007

• Watershed Updates:
• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: There are some EQIP projects being completed in this watershed.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: The BPA contracting dates have necessitated a funding adjustment. They will only allow us two years to complete the contract which means that there is $42,000 available for projects in the next fiscal year. BPA will allow up to 85% cost share. Joli will be letting operators in the watershed area know about the funding availability. The Watershed Assessment is progressing. Landowner Inventory Maps will be sent out next week. There are some EQIP projects being completed in the watershed.
  Grass Valley: There are some EQIP projects being completed in the watershed.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): There are some EQIP projects being completed in the watershed area.
• Grants Update: The Yield Monitor/Variable Rate Fertilizer Grant application is due to DEQ by December 17th. Joli asked the board to review the letter she had sent out on Nov. 28th. They asked her to double check that the unit cost for a yield monitor was still correct. They discussed the rental rate for the variable rate applicator and asked Joli to use $2 per acre as the unit cost. They agreed that a one time payment on 400 acres was acceptable. It was agreed that soil testing is expensive and that if we are asking for them 3 times a year for 3 years we should request additional funds to help with the costs. Joli will work up the costs and send the application to DEQ requesting 30% of the cost for the total project. If the grant is approved we will seek additional funding from OWEB. A Weed Control Grant was sent off to ODA. There are 6 producers signed up asking to treat 275 acres of Yellow Starthistle, 70 acres of Spotted Knapweed and 20 acres of Diffuse Knapweed. The total project cost will be $15,954. Oregon State Weed Board is being asked to fund $9,812. Producers will receive a 75% cost share.
• Small Grants Update: There is still $6,029.75 available for small grants in the Lower Deschutes. There is no funding available on the Lower John Day side.
• Lower John Day & Lower Deschutes Updates: A date has not been set for the Lower John Day and Lower Deschutes joint LAC meeting. It is planned for early January. The board stressed that they would like to be sure that Tom McCoy and Ken Bailey are both able to attend. Jason has been communicating with the writers of the Middle Columbia Steelhead Recovery Plan. The wording about uplands on the John Day River portion was much more acceptable to the board than the way the Deschutes River upland issues were addressed. Jason will communicate these concerns to the contact person.
• Election of Officers: Brad nominated the following slate of officers: Chair-Tracy Fields; Vice Chair-Kyle Blagg; Secretary-Brad Eakin; Treasurer-Bill Martin. A motion was made by Kyle and seconded by Bill to accept these nominations for 2008. Motion carried unanimously.
• SIP Funds: Bill had more information about wind tower dollars that will be coming in to the county and asked that Krista check with the county to see if and when additional SIP contracts may be made.
• Review Audit: Krista reported that Russell & Associates have nearly finished the Review Audit and that it should be arriving possibly by the end of next week.
• Budget Process: The process is on track for timing and scheduling. The board suggested that Krista talk to the County about when the SIP payment can be expected.
• Annual Meeting: An evening meeting on February 12th was chosen for the Annual Meeting. Krista will reserve the Senior Center in Moro and check to see if Paradise Rose Chuck Wagon (Rod McGuire) can cater. Tom McCoy will be presented the Cooperator of the Year award. Jason will check to see if the speaker who talked about Global warming at Gilliam and Wheeler County annual meetings is available to speak at ours.
• NRCS: Kristie was unable to attend. Volunteer hours were gathered from the board. Jessa handed out her CREP progress report for Nov. 13th to December 11th. She had completed 5 cultural site visits with NRCS. All of the sites were approved to proceed. She did site visits and surveys at two guzzler sites. Designed and laid out planting plans for 142.2 acres of riparian forested buffer; 257.5 acres of riparian herbaceous buffer; approximately 33,930 feet of riparian fence; and a brush management and range seeding project. She assisted Gilliam County with a CREP plan folder for approval from the Sherman County FSA. She performed 1 status review and 10 on-site visits. Jessa gave an update about CREP to the FSA county committee. She is finishing her RMS plan that is to be submitted to the NRCS state office by the end of December.
• BLM: Sheri reported that she has been appointed Acting CED for the Sherman County FSA and will serve until a CED is hired. Word had been received from the FSA state office saying that all work on CREP had to be stopped until further notice but Sheri had called for clarification. No new sign ups can be taken but work on all current applications can be done so that contracts can be completed once funding is authorized.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for November 13, 2007

• Watershed Updates:
• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: Direct seed monitoring is complete. Joli is waiting for one landowner to turn in his production data. A report will be ready for the December meeting.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Progress on the watershed assessment was reported. The analysis for land use effects and road densities is complete. This analysis will be used in the Stream Flow, Runoff and Erosion Chapter. Joli is going to talk to Linnea about doing some of the water quality monitoring.
  Grass Valley: Some OWEB grant projects are being completed.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): Brian and Joli have been doing water quality monitoring in Macks Canyon.
• Grants Update: Joli is currently working on the “Yield monitor/Variable rate fertilizer application” grant. There are ten producers interested in participating. One producer asked to be included even though he is using bio-solids so he is only interested in the yield monitor portion of the grant. The board felt that including this producer would complicate the grant too much. Incentive payment rates and number of acres allowed were discussed. The board asked Joli to get more information and get back to them with a draft. Joli is also working on an “ODA Weed Control Grant” application. There are seven producers signed up to participate. Joli, Brian and Jason are currently doing field data collection to get the total number of acres to enroll for spotted knapweed and yellow star thistle for spring treatment. We have received one of the three classroom incubators for the Salmon & Trout Enhancement Program.
• Small Grants Update: The Lower Deschutes has $6,029.75 available for projects. The Lower John Day has $1,012 available. The small grant team discussed a proposed wildlife improvement project application from a local landowner. He proposes to put in 2 guzzlers with tree and shrub plantings. He will be getting a 50% cost share from FSA and requested a 25% cost share from the small grant team. The request was approved unanimously.
• Lower John Day & Lower Deschutes Update: Planning for a joint meeting of the Lower John Day and Lower Deschutes Ag. Water Quality Management Area local advisory committees is in progress. A date in early January will be chosen as soon as possible.
• OACD Conference: Krista and Jason attended the conference in Bend. Both reported that they enjoyed several of the sessions. Neither attended the board meetings so when minutes are received Krista will get them out to the board.
• CREP Update: Jessa gave her CREP progress report. She has completed 5 cultural site visits, designed and laid out one fencing project, written 8 contract revisions, done 2 new site visits, completed 1 status review, talked with 20 landowners about CREP, worked on her RMS plan for certification as a planner and worked with Brian on design and layout of a structure. The FSA County Committee has requested that the SWCD work with them to adopt a uniform cost list for CREP practices. The board agreed that one cost list would be beneficial and asked that Jessa work with other staff to develop a draft for approval by SWCD and FSA. Kristie thanked Jessa for her good work with CREP.
• Wy'East RC&D: The Districts membership in the RC&D was discussed at length. A motion was made by Kyle and seconded by Brad to withdraw our membership from the Wy’east RC&D effective immediately. Motion carried unanimously.
• Spring Basin Wilderness Area: Information had been received from Lyn Craig about a proposal to make Spring Basin in Wheeler County a Wilderness Area. Discussion will continue if more information is received.
• First Aid Training: The board approved employee requests to attend a First Aid and CPR training this Friday in The Dalles. District will pay for the classes.
• NRCS: Kristie’s report is attached to these minutes. Training for the Robotic Total Station will cost approximately $1,300. NRCS is unable to allocate those funds at this time for Greg Cards’ training. A motion was made by Tracy and seconded by Kyle to pay that expense for Greg. In return the board will ask Greg to train someone from the district. The motion carried unanimously. Volunteer hours were reported.
• FSA: Sheri reported that Josh Hanning has been appointed to serve as District Director for Sherman, Gilliam/Wheeler, Wasco, Hood River, and Crook/Deschutes/Jefferson County FSA offices. A new County Executive Director will probably not be hired for Sherman County for a couple of months. Crop and Livestock Disaster program for 05, 06, & 07 is still available. FSA would appreciate input from producers about their rangeland resources. Decisions about rangeland disaster needs are rated by local personnel from NRCS, FSA and Extension.
• OSU Extension: Sandy reminded all that November 16th is the joint marketing, Farm Bureau and Wheat League meeting. He also asked about the districts involvement or interest in the housing development that has been proposed on the South end of Moro. The board will wait to hear more information about that project.
• Sherman County: Steve talked briefly about the 2008 SIP funds from the wind turbine projects.
• Mid Columbia Economic Development District: Link Shadley of the Mid Columbia Economic Development District gave an update about possible funding for John Day River projects. He also said that current project priorities are as follows: juniper/weed removal; environmental education for grades K through 12; and funding for technical assistance. He asked us to notify either him or Georgia Macnab about any other projects we are interested in. David Colbeck of the Wild Salmon Center said that he was just here to listen to the meeting.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for October 9, 2007

• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: All monitoring reports are up to date. Direct Seed grant participants have been contacted. Monitoring will be done in the next two weeks. Three small grants completed a total of 13 water & sediment control basins (wascbs) and 15,274 feet of terrace rebuilds.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Jason reported that BPA cultural resource reviews have been moving quite slowly but he hopes that projects will be approved for implementation by the middle of January. Assessment - Joli reported that the preliminary inventory is complete. The next step is to set up individual appointments with landowners. She and Brian are currently gathering information for History & Stream Flow and Runoff & Erosion Chapters of the assessment.
  Grass Valley: All monitoring reports are up to date. OWEB Grant 207-323 had one solar water development project completed. An OWEB Small Grant in the watershed completed 4,323 feet of terrace rebuilds.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): There have been district hours spent doing EQIP and CREP projects in the watershed.
• Grants Update: OWEB funding for both the Restoration Grant and the Technical Assistance Grant was finalized by OWEB and contracts should be here soon. The OWEB fall deadline for grants is October 22nd. Joli is currently working on a Yield Monitor/Variable Rate Fertilizer Application proposal. This grant was based off a previous unsuccessful proposal for USDA CIG (Conservation Innovation Grant) funding for yield monitors. Joli asked the board whether she should resubmit using the same landowner participants or if it should be opened back up because of the changes. The board agreed that they would prefer to open it back up and postpone the application until a later date. There are two other possible funding options besides OWEB. Other possibilities are through DEQ or through a revised USDA CIG program. Joli has also been working on a Weed Control grant application to submit to ODA. This grant was also unsuccessful in the last cycle, but is being revised. The board would like Joli to open up the option for landowners to participate in this grant. Information about both grants will go out in the fall newsletter. There are some open OWEB grants that have a balance remaining because participants were either unable to do their proposed project or came in under budget when projects were completed. OWEB has given permission for the reallocation of these funds within the planned watershed and for practices that were already included in the grant. This reallocation will be done as soon as possible. OWEB notified the district that they will increase the allocation for the Watershed Council Support grant (208-046) by $17,000. The amendment and contract have been signed reflecting this increase. Joli is currently doing Education Outreach by meeting with the South Sherman Elementary Parent Teacher Organization. They have requested assistance with study and improvement of the Grass Valley Creek adjacent to the school. The board would like the City of Grass Valley to provide guidance for this kind of a project. Also the PTO would like to participate in the “Secrets of Our Shrub-Steppe Home” project that is sponsored by the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute. Joli will assist them with an application for the “Secrets” project. ODA has agreed to provide additional funding for the CREP Technician position. These funds, $12,000 for this year, will be included in the ODA Intergovernmental Agreement reporting system. (Reports will be included with the ODA Tech and LMA portion of the current IGA). The amendment was approved and signed.
• Small Grants Update: There is currently $6,029.75 available for projects in the Lower Deschutes. There is $3,780 available in the Lower John Day. Joli presented one small grant application for funding from the Lower John Day. The board reviewed and approved that grant unanimously. Joli asked for clarification on cost sharing guzzlers on CRP ground. The landowner who requested this practice did not receive incentive payments for this practice on his contract. The consensus was to let the landowner apply for small grant cost share.
• DeMoss Springs Water Development: Brian requested the board’s permission to assist the county on plan, design and implementation of a spring development at the DeMoss Springs Park. The board concurred that this project fits the district goals for water quality projects in the Grass Valley Canyon watershed. Brian’s time and expertise will be the district’s donation to the county park improvement.
• Personnel Policy Book: Krista handed out copies of Chapter 2 of the current policy book. The board will review the chapter and discuss any needed changes at the next meeting. They will review more chapters in the next few months.
• Retirement Benefit Package: Brian presented the information that he gathered about possible retirement packages for employees. The consensus of the employees was that they would like to enroll in a Simple IRA through American Funds. This plan would include a one to one match from the District for up to a 3 percent match. The board took no action on this proposal. It will be discussed again at the November meeting.
• Personnel Policies & Resolutions: Tyler Stone brought the board information about Human Resource issues. He showed them a book published by Milliman that shows results of a survey that has job descriptions and salary ranges. After a salary range is chosen a matrix is developed for salary increases. Options for salary increases are: step increases as used by NRCS, cost of living increases as recommended by the survey, and/or performance based increases. The board liked the information in the Milliman book and Tyler suggested that they participate in a survey conducted by Milliman. The board would like to approach OACD and ODA about “sponsoring” participation in this survey for all districts in the state. Krista will contact Larry Ojua and John McDonald to see if there is any interest. If a statewide survey isn’t done the board would like to check with several other districts to see if they would like to do a survey. If not the board would still want to be involved. Tyler also suggested consulting with “The Compensation Group” about a survey of benefits offered by districts in the state. The Partner’s Group is another company that he recommends to do the districts’ shopping for insurance packages every year. If the district could be part of a larger group for its insurance package it would be very beneficial. Tom Straughan suggested checking in to Special Districts of Oregon policies.
• NRCS: Kristie recorded Earth Team Hours from the board. Her report for July, August and September was that she was on maternity leave. She returned to work on October 1st. The deadline for EQIP sign up is October 31st. Jessa reported on CREP progress and activities. Her report covered July to October. In that time 7 new CREP contracts were completed; she designed and certified one drip irrigation system; certified 1 spring development; wrote 3 riparian forested buffer planting plans that were approved by ODF; completed 5 plan modifications; went on 35 on-site visits; completed 5 status reviews; attended the final session of the Conservation Planner’s course; continued planning and inventory on a 2,742 acre RMS plan for NRCS planner certification; completed reports for OWEB, BPA, ODA NRCS & FSA; and surveyed CREP damaged or destroyed by the Grass Valley Canyon fire. The board asked how the fire damage will be handled. Jessa is waiting for the criteria from the County Committee. They meet on October 18th.
• ODA: Tom Straughan talked about the CREP Technician funding. We are currently budgeted to receive $15,000 next year but this is not secured yet.
• Mid Columbia Economic Development District: Krista handed out the most recent correspondence and project list from Link Shadley.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for September 11, 2007

• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: All monitoring reports are up-to-date. The Direct Seed monitoring will be conducted this month for both Direct Seed Grants. OWEB (with Joli’s assistance) developed a news release about the direct seed grants in Sherman County. It was sent to local papers and was featured on the 97.7 radio station.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Feral pig control is underway. Twenty two pigs have been caught at the Black Rock Grazing Association locations. All monitoring reports are up-to-date. Brian and Joli are working on the mapping and history for the Pine Hollow/Jackknife Watershed Assessment.
  Grass Valley: All monitoring reports are up to date. Reseeding rangeland burned by the fire in July was discussed. Brian has been talking with Rick Craiger of OWEB about possible cost share funding to assist landowners with the costs of reseeding. The estimated cost for the total project would be approximately $300,000 to fly on seed that is predominately native.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): There is nothing new to report at this time. Jessa is working on some CREP projects in the watershed.
• Grants Update: Reminders for project completion deadlines were sent out to landowners in all watersheds. The OWEB Restoration Grant submitted in April was recommended for funding: 6 of 17 (a total of 31 applications were reviewed by the review team). The total cost of the project for this grant was $104,351. OWEB funds requested were $74,972. The grant includes 40,700 feet of new terrace, 28,650 feet of rebuild terrace, 4,700 feet of gradient to level terrace, 67 cropland wascbs. Approximately $1.8 million is recommended for funding before our grant. The OWEB Technical Assistance Grant submitted in April was recommended for funding: 1 of 2. The total cost of the project is $34,447. OWEB funds requested were $19,662. The grant includes technical assistance for the identification and preparation of an action plan to restore potential habitat for steelhead in the lower 7 miles of Grass Valley Creek. Funding for both grants will be finalized at the September 18th OWEB meeting. Education Grant funding will also be discussed. If funds are made available, an application will be developed. The upcoming deadline for OWEB applications is October 22, 2007. There has been some interest expressed in a new direct seed grant. The board asked that Joli follow up on it. They also agreed that she should send out a notice to producers reminding them that the OWEB funds can be applied for. The Yield Monitor grant that was submitted to USDA for the Conservation Initiative Grant was not funded. The original request was for $66,000 to go towards the total project cost of $137,965 for 9 producers. The board asked Joli to seek another funding source for this project and try again.
• Lower John Day: Mary Beth reported that the soil survey in Wheeler County is scheduled for completion in 5 years. When it is completed the Lower John Day Watershed should be eligible for consideration for the Conservation Security Program.
• OACD Annual Meeting & Convention: The board discussed the draft agenda. Decisions about who will attend will be discussed at the next meeting.
• CPR Training: The staff asked permission to attend a six hour CPR training in The Dalles. The cost will be either $20 or $25 per employee. The board agreed that this would be a good training for staff. Brian will follow up with Wasco County SWCD about scheduling.
• NRCS: Mary Beth is currently serving as the acting District Conservationist for Kristie. She handed out her activity report which is attached to these minutes.
• FSA: Sheri reported that the CED position for the Moro FSA office has not been opened yet. FSA is filling District Director positions first. Kevin is still coming here to do some work including measuring bins. ECP funding for the wild fire was approved but there are no funds available at this time. Sign ups are open now for cross fencing. Boundary fences are not eligible for emergency funds. The County Committee will discuss how to handle the damage to CREP planting caused by the fire. Funding for replanting will be a 50% cost share unless the state decides to contribute the 25% like they have in the past.
• Mid Columbia Economic Development District: Link Shadley, Mid Columbia Economic Development District, came to discuss a Project List. He has been in contact with a number of natural resource groups in the Northwest that are very interested in assisting with restoration efforts in Grass Valley Canyon following the recent fire. He is trying to “convert interest in to money”. Besides the fire restoration interest the list included such projects as noxious weed control; juniper removal; cattle, sheep & hog production; invasive species control; Conservation Security Program for the Lower John Day River; cobble & debris removal; direct till; information distribution highlighting local efforts; Moro City wastewater; Grass Valley city wastewater; infrastructure for improve ag practices; and John Day River navigability impacts. The board asked Link to reword the “Immediate Actions” column for direct seed because “public relations” is not a problem. Gary asked that Link include an education component on the list that would assist small schools in the area with natural resource education and also the possibility of workshops that could be held to get information out to the natural resource partners.

No Board Meetings Held in July or August.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for June 12, 2007

• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: All projects for OWEB grant 205-056 are completed. Final report and fund request will be sent as soon as all bills are received.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Brian met with Wasco County SWCD, ODFW and USDA Wildlife Services to discuss the feral pig problems in southern Sherman and Wasco counties. Traps and cameras will be set up in several locations. Captured pigs are checked for diseases. Pictures will be available and some information will be aired on the Oregon Public Broadcasting channel.
  Grass Valley: OWEB grant 205-057 has used $30,959 and has a completion deadline of June 30, 2007. One landowner has requested an extension. Joli will request an extension. The board discussed encouraging landowners to complete projects within the time frame and ask Joli to put an article reminding them of this in the next newsletter.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): There is nothing new to report at this time.
• Grants Update: The Council Support grant funding was increased to $63,000 for two years. This should be the amount on the grant agreement which will be coming by the end of June. Joli showed the board the new tracking system for grants and projects that she developed. It includes a map and legend showing funding sources and project locations.
• Small Grants Update: Applications for the 2007-2009 biennium were reviewed.
• Education Projects: The District is assisting with a “Salmon and Trout Enhancement Program”. Projects will be set up in North and South Sherman Elementary schools and the Junior/Senior High school. Fish will be released in to ponds so that they do not enter the river system. A Parent Teacher Organization (PTO) has been formed at South Sherman Elementary. Joli, Jessa and Gary have been talking with them about possible projects and assistance.
• Wy'East RC&D Update: Gary and Jessa both attended the last meeting. They expressed their concerns to the council about the emphasis being put on conflict resolution type projects and also about the discussion of real estate investments. The lack of action on the project requests from the Sherman County SWCD were also discussed but no action will happen unless project requests are submitted on the form they provided in January. Gary will plan to attend at least one more meeting. It was suggested that Meta and possibly Bob Graham be encouraged to attend a few Wy’east meetings.
• 2008 Annual Work Plan & Workload Analysis: A motion was made by Gary and seconded by Brad to approve the 2008 Annual Work Plan, Workload Analysis, and ODA Statement of work and budget. Motion carried unanimously.
• Fair Display: The board asked the employees to develop ideas for a display booth at the fair.
• Volunteer Resolution for Workers' Comp: A motion was made by Gary and seconded by Brad to sign Resolution 6-07-1 stating that the District chooses to extend worker’s compensation coverage to board members. Motion carried unanimously.
• NRCS: Kristie’s report will be attached to these minutes. Earth Team volunteer hours were reported and Kristie handed out hats to the board to thank them for their participation.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for May 8, 2007

• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: Projects are being done using OWEB and EQIP funds.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Projects are being done using OWEB and BPA funds. The OWEB Assessment grant has been signed. This secures $104,233 for the next two years to complete the assessment of the Pine Hollow/Jackknife Watershed.
  Grass Valley: Projects are being done using OWEB and EQIP funds.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): Projects are being done using OWEB and EQIP funds.
• Grants Update: The OWEB grant application submitted in April included six landowners from the North Sherman and Grass Valley Canyon watersheds. Projects applied for include 22,850 feet of new level terrace, 3,100 feet of gradient to level terraces, 19,450 feet of gradient terrace rebuilds and 53 new cropland water & sediment control basins. Total project cost estimate is $69,136 with OWEB being asked for $48,885 of the total. The Lower Grass Valley Canyon Technical Assistance grant was revised and resubmitted. This grant would create an action plan for the lower 7 miles of Grass Valley Creek as a first step in achieving the goal of steelhead reintroduction. Total project cost is $24,447 with $19,662 being requested from OWEB. The evaluation for the Council Support Grant was received. The board read the comments from the OWEB reviewers. The merit rating of Councils in Sherman County was “satisfactory”. This ranking may qualify us for $52,000 for the next biennium. Our request was for $120,072. Written comments on the review & ranking were submitted last week. Applicants will be allowed 5 minutes to give comments at the OWEB meeting in Salem on May 15th. The board would like to send someone to comment if possible.
• Small Grants Update: Joli is currently working on the 2005-2007 Biennial Report. Four projects were recently completed. The small grant committee reviewed and approved the Operating Procedures & Bylaws for the 2007-2009 OWEB Small Grants. In order to get contracts started by the beginning of September the committee will review applications for the next biennium at the June meeting. Two applications for this biennium were discussed. One request for the Lower John Day for upland structures was approved. Gilliam County small grant committee allowed us to use $1,280 that they were unable to allocate. One request for upland structures in the Lower Deschutes was also approved. Wasco County small grant committee allowed us to use $2,259 that they were unable to allocate. This cooperation with Gilliam and Wasco Counties was much appreciated.
• Wy'East RC&D Update: Jessa reported that a proposal was made at the last meeting to look in to real estate investments as a stable funding source for the RC&D. Also the emphasis on Sirolli Institute and conflict resolution is still the priority for projects. The board does not support either of these as proposals. They asked Krista to visit with Meta Loftgaarden about concerns. Jessa said that representatives of the RC&D asked to be on the agenda for one of our district board meetings.
• 2008 Annual Work Plan & Workload Analysis: Krista will send the draft 2008 Work Plan and Workload Analysis to Bill for review. The final draft needs to be approved at the June meeting.
• June Meeting: The regular June meeting will be held at 6:00 PM on June 12th. The Oyster and Steak Feed will be held at the fair grounds at 5:30 PM on Friday June 15th.
• Stewardship Week: Materials have been distributed to the local schools. Joli is working with schools to develop a “Salmon & Trout Enhancement” program. Fish eggs would be incubated in the class rooms.
• NRCS: Kristie’s report is attached to these minutes. She reminded the board about the Local Working Group meeting to be held May 16th, 8:00 AM here at the office. There are several changes to the cost list that will need to be reviewed. The signed NRCS Contribution agreement for this year has been received and will be billed on this month. Mary Beth will serve as acting District Conservationist during Kristie’s leave (July to October).
• OSU Extension: Sandy reminded the board of the May 19th County Clean-Up day. The dump will be free all day and there will be a hazardous waste collection at the County Road department shop. May 22nd is the date for the “Crop Hop”. The Sherman County portion will begin at 2 o’clock in Grass Valley.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for April 10, 2007

• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: Conservation work funded by OWEB grant 205-056 are being completed this spring. The grant expires June 30th.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: ODFW, district and watershed council representative conducted a redd count in the lower portion Pine Hollow. Five redd’s were found. The OWEB grant for “Livestock Management” has been signed and landowners will be notified that funding is available for their projects.
  Grass Valley: Projects funded by OWEB grant number 205-057 have to be completed by June 30th. The five landowners involved have approximately $38,000 to use for their projects.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): A water quality survey was done by Joli and Brian in Macks Canyon on March 15th. A daily temperature monitoring gauge was put in the stream. Test for dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity and temperature were done. They hope to do additional field visits later in the summer.
• Grants Update: The Technical Assistance grant for Lower Grass Valley Canyon has been revised and is being resubmitted. This grant will help create an action plan for the lower 7 miles of Grass Valley Creek as a first step in achieving the goal of steelhead reintroduction. A grant application for upland restoration projects is also being submitted. This grant involves six producers. The total project cost will be $86,355 with OWEB being asked for $64,781 of that total. The agreement with OWEB for the Pine Hollow/Jackknife restoration grant ($63,749) has been signed. The agreement for the Pine Hollow/Jackknife Assessment has not been received yet. One small grant application for an upland structure for Bob Martin was approved for funding. The total project cost is $848. OWEB will cost share $478.
• Lower John Day: Tom McCoy’s letter of compliance with water quality standards from ODA was reviewed.
• Wy'East RC&D Update: Gary was unable to present the concerns of the SWCD at the most recent meeting. Jessa will try to get Gary listed on the agenda for the next RC&D meeting. The board would also like to visit with the NRCS RC&D lead, Meta Loftsgaarden.
• 2008 Annual Work Plan & Workload Analysis: Krista has begun revising and updating both. The board agreed that Bill would review both for the June meeting.
• Budget Committee: The budget committee meeting was held on April 5th. A budget was accepted at that meeting, but additional funding may be coming in from OWEB and BPA so adjustments are expected to be made. No changes to the proposed budget were made at the meeting today. A second budget committee meeting date was tentatively set for May 31st. BPA Tech contract time was discussed. If BPA will allow a beginning date of July 1st there will need to be funds to cover two months of personnel expenses. If necessary, Sherman Development League funds will be requested for that time.
• NRCS: Kristie reminded everyone about the crop tours on May 22nd. A Local Work Group meeting will be planned for May or early June. Her report is attached to these minutes.
• ODA: Tom reported that not much has been happening with Ag. Water quality issues. He advised the district to encourage livestock owners to be sure that they are in compliance with water quality rules because those have been the most reported problems. He encouraged board members to participate in the local Joint Ways & Mean committee meeting being held in The Dalles. Tom also explained what his duties will be with the OWEB CREP technician funding process.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for March 13, 2007

• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: OWEB grant 99-552 4th year monitoring report was completed. OWEB grant 205-056 is being completed this spring. One operator has projects to complete by June 30th.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: The Redd count survey will be done in cooperation with ODFW on April 10th and will cover part of Pine Creek and Mobley’s. Funding decisions will be finalized by OWEB this week for the Assessment Grant and the Restoration Grant. BPA cost share funding may be available for one year. They have projected approximately $18,000 will be allowed for cost sharing watershed restoration projects. A contract has not been received yet.
  Grass Valley: OWEB grant 205-057 is being completed this spring. There are five operators who can complete work by June 30th. The Technical Assistance Grant request was revised and will be resubmitted this spring.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): Joli and Brian will be doing water quality monitoring in Macks Canyon on March 15th.
• Grants Update: The Noxious Weed Grant submitted to ODA was not funded but they suggested that it be resubmitted. The OWEB small grant portion of the noxious weed grant was funded so all participants will receive one box of bugs. Joli is currently working on a cropland structure grant that must be submitted by April 23rd.
• Annual Meeting: The Annual Meeting final expenses show that the District paid out $329.07 over the income from donations. Everyone felt that the meeting was successful and well attended. The guest speaker challenged community members to come up with a project that could possibly include Gilliam and Wheeler Counties that would encourage economic growth and stability in Sherman County. No ideas were presented at that time.
• 4-Wheel Drive Vehicle: Brian reported that the 1995 Dodge is running well. He requested floor mats and racks. He would like to build the racks. The board gave their permission for both.
• Stewardship Week: This year Stewardship Week is April 29 to May 6. The theme is “Today is the Day to be a part of Conservation’s Power”. Joli has sent information out to the teachers.
• Budget Committee: The board reviewed several options for the budget. It is difficult at this time because several grants have been approved for funding, but contracts have not been signed confirming exact funding numbers. A Budget Committee meeting will be set for the end of March or first of April depending on publication of the notice. Notices will be published in the Times-Journal. Board members asked Krista to contact all of the committee with dates, times and locations of meetings.
• Sherman County Court: Gary Thompson updated the District on the wind turbine projects and the Strategic Investment Plan. He explained that as a special district in that area the SWCD will be given $12,000 in fiscal year 2008-2009. A motion was made by Tracy and seconded by Brad to sign the agreement accepting the funds. Motion carried unanimously. The effect of wind tower construction on county roads was discussed.
• NRCS: Kristie handed out her report which is attached to these minutes. EQIP funding is currently being provided for eleven contracts in Sherman County. After Hours meetings were fairly well attended. The one private session had better attendance than the 2 public sessions. Kristie is working with the District on a new Contribution Agreement. We are hoping to contract for $34,500. Kristie, Jason and Brian have been working with Biglow Wind Project participants regarding the redesign of conservation structures that will be altered during tower construction. Biglow Wind has hired Tenneson Engineering to complete designs for any altered structures. The board reported their volunteer hours to Kristie.
• FSA: Kevin thanked the SWCD for inviting FSA to participate in the “Conservation After Hours” sessions. He reported that the county currently has 8,100 acres enrolled in CREP which brings in approximately $400,000 in payments.
• ODFW: Keith Kohl reported that the state is updating and developing wildlife management plans. They will be assisted by Oregon State University for the Lower Deschutes plan. Projects for the Access & Habitat program would be welcomed. They are doing the annual census of deer, elk and sheep by helicopter this week. He reported that they have moved some sheep from the Deschutes and the John Day to French Glenn. We also discussed the mountain goat that is currently living along the Columbia River.
• Wy'East RC&D: The next meeting is scheduled for March 22 at the sheriff’s office in Madras. Gary is planning to attend with Jessa. He will present the boards points of concern regarding the RC&D council. The board would like to develop a better working relationship with the RC&D. Kristie will talk to the RC&D lead person at the state office about our concerns. Merlin Berg, Wy’east RC&D, gave the board an update of the Rapid Watershed Assessment that is being done by NRCS. He handed out a copy of the one that was done for the Lower Deschutes watershed. At this time the top three priority areas chosen by the assessment team are Trout Creek, Willow Creek and Lower Crook. Merlin was asked how those had become priorities. At the last meeting that our office was involved in the priority areas chosen were the Lower John Day and the Lower Deschutes. He said it was the decision of the Rapid Watershed Assessment Team.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for February 13, 2007

• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: Several landowners are working on projects for OWEB or EQIP in the watershed.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: BPA has indicated that funding for Pine Hollow/Jackknife will continue for another year.
  Grass Valley: Several landowners are working on projects for OWEB or EQIP in the watershed.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): The picture and article about Buck Hollow running clear in the recent run-off event have circulated around the state on the ODA website.
• Grants Update: The upcoming OWEB grant application grant deadline is April 23, 2007. Joli will be getting information out to landowners. Word was received during the meeting that BPA will be funding the council support grant request again. Official announcement of funding for OWEB restoration and assessment grants will be March 2007. Our restoration and Pine Hollow assessment grants were recommended for funding at $63,749 and $104,233 respectively. Announcement of funding for the Council Coordinator Grant will be announced by May. The Sherman Development League awarded the district $60,000. Sandy explained that the Development League would rather fund a project than personnel. Possible projects will be discussed, but this grant application was for help with funding to support SWCD staffing.
• Lower John Day: Jason has been asked to make a presentation about the website that he developed for the Lower John Day River Sub-Basin plan. The board agreed to pay Jason for his time, but not mileage to the meeting in Pendleton.
• Annual Meeting: The agenda for the annual meeting was reviewed and approved.
• 4-Wheel Drive Vehicle: Brian is still looking for a good used pick-up within our price range. The board would prefer not to purchase a vehicle that has belonged to an agency or conservation district. They feel that a privately owned vehicle may have been better maintained.
• OWEB Review Team Meeting: All watershed project monitoring reports are up-to-date. The OWEB review team was invited by the SWCD to meet here on January 31st to discuss the funding conditions of future cropland structure grants. Four of the review team members attended. Those attending were Ellen Hammond, Jeff Goebel, Brian Stradley and Jerry Cordova. Others attending were Rick Craiger, OWEB, Greg Card, NRCS, Tom McCoy, Chris Kaseberg, Marvin Thompson, Bryan Cranston, Bill Martin, Darren Padget, Joli Munkers and Jason Faucera. Tom McCoy did a power point presentation showing the background of Sherman County tillage practices and why they are used. He highlighted the problems of weed control and seed bed prep and some of the differences between Wasco County precipitation amounts and their steep slopes. He compared the mulch till commonly used in Sherman County to the direct seed acres. He showed pictures of residue on his farm including some of the field where he used an undercutter. There was not a notable difference in residue on his mulch tilled and his undercut field. Pictures of tillage equipment and practices were shown and discussed. Monitoring efforts and strategic planning were also discussed. After lunch several of the attendees went out to Darren Padget’s and looked at structures. Monitoring data seems to be one of the things the review team feels that we need more of. The board discussed how structures could possibly be monitored. Choosing a few structures to measure sediment in was one suggestion. It was also suggested that the study be offered to a graduate student.
• After Hours Meetings: After Hours meetings have been scheduled for February 28th, 1:00pm at the Kent Church, March 1st, 5:00pm at Steve Burnet’s shop, March 6th, and 6:30pm at the Senior Center in Moro. Bill will talk with some other landowners in the North end of the county and try to set up one more meeting for this spring.
• Budget Committee Update: Steve Kock, Dick Stradley and Jonathan Rolfe have agreed to serve on the budget committee. Contact will be made with other citizens in order to get two more members for the committee. The proposed budget is being developed and will be reviewed by board members as soon as possible. The board will meet on February 26th at 8:30am to review a draft budget that will be developed by staff. Gary and Brian will be attending a budgeting workshop on February 22nd in The Dalles.
• NRCS: Kristie handed out her activity report which is attached to these minutes. The board turned in their volunteer hours to Kristie. NRCS has provided a new pickup for the Moro office, but they still plan to sell 2 pickups. The Contribution Agreement funds available to the Sherman County SWCD are $34,500. This agreement should be completed by March 15th. Jessa reported on progress for CREP.
• OSU Extension: It was reported that a Hazardous Waste Collection date will be set for March in The Dalles. Call the extension office for the date. Extension and the County are trying to get a program set up with Morrow County Grain Growers and Farm Chemical for recycling containers. They will also try to set up collection of old tires and oil. The county is currently below their goal of 20% recycling. Sandy asked that any unreported recycling be reported to him.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for January 9, 2007

• Watershed Updates
  North Sherman: A council meeting was held December 13th. Chris Kaseberg was reelected as the council chair. Members expressed interest in getting started on a watershed assessment of at least one area within the council boundaries.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: A council meeting was held on December 13th. There was not a quorum present. Members present discussed the possibility of hosting a “Land EKG” workshop. They requested that Joli and Linnea get more information for them.
  Grass Valley: A council meeting was held on December 14th. Members discussed the idea of reorganization of not only the Grass Valley Canyon watershed council, but all the councils in the county due to decreased attendance and involvement at meetings. Options proposed for consideration were: Reorganization of GV watershed council board of directors (down from 7 to 5); Create an umbrella council with separate working groups or councils; or Merge all councils together into one large council covering all of Sherman County. The SWCD board recommendation was that the Grass Valley Watershed Council revise the structure of their board.
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): A council meeting was held on December 14th. Joli presented the options for council structure that were discussed at the Grass Valley Canyon watershed council meeting. Members expressed their preference for keeping the councils as local as possible rather than merging with more watersheds. They decided to wait to form their official council until later. Joli will be scheduling council meetings in late February or March. Gary suggested that the council meetings might possibly be combined with “Conservation After Hours” meetings.
• Grants Update: The OWEB Review Team for our area asked Joli to set up a meeting with the Sherman County SWCD and several landowners to discuss the funding conditions of future cropland structure grants. The board asked her to schedule the meeting on January 31st at the Senior Center in Moro. The meeting will begin at 10:00am and Joli will check on the possibility of having a no-host lunch there. Pictures of terraces and wascbs will be shown. The board would like to invite Greg Card from NRCS. Two completion reports for OWEB grants have been submitted. Direct Seed Incentive (203-067) treated 1,072 acres for $28,365. Sherman County Conservation Work (204-142) completed 7 rangeland wascbs, 12 cropland wascbs and 11,042 feet of terrace for $25,162.
• Small Grants Update: Nothing to report.
• Lower John Day: Krista handed out minutes of the LAC meeting, the proposed revision erosion section of the plan, and the draft copy of the biennial review. Tom Straughan would like to have any comments back to him as soon as possible. One change that will be requested is that the SWCD be included in the highlighted section of the proposed revisions so that it would read “ODA will work with the SWCD, NRCS and the landowner to modify the plan to comply with the waste rule”.
• Lower Deschutes Update: Nothing new to report.
• Annual Meeting: The Annual Meeting will be held on Tuesday February 13th, 5:00 pm, at the Senior Center in Moro. Rod McGuire will be asked to cater. Beer and wine will be sold during the social hour prior to dinner which will be at 6:00pm. Brian is talking with Mike McArthur about getting Greg Wolf, Executive Director for the National Policy Consensus Center, to be the speaker.
• 4-Wheel Drive Vehicle: A motion was made by Tracy and seconded by Brad to have Brian shop for a ½ ton pickup with no more than 75,000 miles and costing no more than $6000. Brian will bring the information back to the board for a final decision. Motion carried unanimously.
• Conservation Awards: Brian developed draft guidelines for the award. The consensus was that the draft looked good, but the board decided to table further discussion until the next meeting.
• Oath of Office: Tracy, Bill, and Kyle were sworn in for their new terms as directors.
• Budget Planning: Brian presented the time-line for budget requirements. A budget committee needs to be formed now. There may be as many as five members selected from the community (registered voters) and the District board on the committee.
• Review Audit: Copies of the review audit were handed out.
• Yield Monitor Grant: The board reviewed the rough draft of the Conservation Innovation Grant that Merlin Berg had developed for the yield monitor grant. Joli, Kristie and the district staff will complete the grant and the budget. A focus group meeting will be held on January 11th at 9:00am here at the office.
• External Hard Drive for Laptop: Jason requested permission to purchase a hard drive for the lap top which will allow the District to keep project photos organized. Cost would be $100 to $150. The NRCS CCE computers will not allow use of the photo program that we have been using. The board concurred that Jason can make the purchase.
• NRCS: Kristie would like to schedule the next Local Work Group meeting for May or June 2007. She hopes to know how much funding will be available for Contribution agreements by the February meeting. It could possibly be as low as $20,000. EQIP funding available should be around $185,000. Kristie’s activity report is attached to these minutes.
• OSU Extension: Sandy reported that the Experiment Station is planning a field day for the long term plots this spring. They currently have 7 planting systems. They are also planning a celebration because the Endowment Fund has exceeded 1 million dollars. Sandy will present a final report on the SARE Grant (Jill Clapperton workshop) at the next SWCD meeting.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for December 12, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): All monitoring reports are up to date. A council meeting will be held on December 14th at 2:00pm in Brian Stradley’s shop.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: All monitoring reports are up to date. A council meeting will be held December 13th, 2:00pm at the Kent Church.
  Grass Valley: The Watershed Assessment is back from the printer. A council meeting will be held on December 14th, 10:00am at South Sherman Elementary. All monitoring reports are up to date.
  North Sherman: A council meeting is scheduled for December 13th, 10:00am at the Wasco Church of Christ. All monitoring reports are up to date.
• Grants Update: Final reports for OWEB grants 203-067 and 204-142 will be completed before the next meeting. Two grants were submitted this month. One was the Council Support Grant and a Weed Management grant.
• Small Grants Update: Four Small grants were reviewed and approved for funding.
• Lower John Day: The Lower John Day LAC met on Dec. 11th at the Senior Center in Moro for the Biennial Review of the Ag Water Quality Management Area Plan. There were some proposed changes which will be distributed to LAC members for review because there was not a quorum present at the meeting. The LAC decided to meet once a year to discuss concerns and accomplishments. Stephanie Page, ODA, reported on the number of investigations done by ODA last year.
• Lower Deschutes Update: The Lower Deschutes LAC met for the review of the Ag Water Quality Management Area Plan. Ellen Hammond reported that some changes will be sent out for landowner review. That LAC also decided to meet once a year.
• Conservation Awards: The board agreed that they need to develop guidelines (1 page or less). Brian and Gary will develop some draft guidelines by the January meeting.
• Directors Oath of Office: Kyle, Bill and Tracy were sworn in for their new term of office.
• Election of Officers: A motion was made by Gary and seconded by Kyle to retain the same slate of officers. Motion carried unanimously. They are as follows: Bill Martin, Chair; Kyle Blagg, Vice Chair; Brad Eakin, Secretary; and Tracy Fields, Treasurer.
• Budget Planning: Brian reported that Dick Stradley is helping him put together a packet of information about the budget process. He should have that for us by the next meeting. Krista will also be getting information from ODA.
• Annual Meeting: The annual meeting will be held at noon on Feb. 13th at the Senior Center in Moro. The board would like to ask Rod McGuire to cater if it could be for $12 per person or less. Krista will check with him. Possible areas of interest for a speaker were: Alternative crops, Cultural Resources, or Herbicide applications and determining the economic threshold.
• Need for 4-Wheel Drive: NRCS will not be replacing the blue Ford. There will probably only be one pick up available for the District and Kristie to use. Brian will check on government surplus. Stephanie said that she will get him the information for the web site. It would be beneficial to try to get a vehicle by next spring.
• Training for Brian: Brian requested that he be allowed to attend a Special Districts of Oregon (SDAO) conference from Feb. 8-11 in Corvallis. The subject of the conference is Worker’s Compensation rules and procedures. The cost is $130. The board approved Brian’s request to attend.
• NRCS: The NRCS report is attached. Jessa reported on the Workshop that was held. Forty people attended. It was quite successful, but would be better to plan for all day so there would be more time for speakers and questions. The workshop was sponsored by Wy’east RC&D and the Sherman County SWCD.
• FSA: Kevin reported that Tim Jefferies has been elected to the South County position on the County Committee. Stuart vonBorstel will serve as alternate. Kevin will have a draft MOU between FSA, NRCS and the SWCD for the board to review at the January meeting. The ECP practices are being completed with the help of SWCD technicians, Jason & Brian.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for November 21, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): The first meeting of the watershed council will be held on Thursday, December 14th at 3:00pm in Brian Stradley’s shop.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: The council will meet on Monday, December 11th at 10:00am in the Kent Church. OWEB grant 204-142 projects must be completed by December 31st. Landowners have been notified that their projects must be completed.
  Grass Valley: The council has not set a meeting date yet. The assessment document has been sent to the ESD office in Condon for printing. Twenty copies were ordered at a cost of approximately $20 per copy. They should be completed in two weeks. A fund request was submitted to OWEB for “Lower Grass Valley Canyon Creek Technical Assistance”. A “Weed Management” grant is being prepared for submission to the Oregon Weed Board.
  North Sherman: The council meeting is tentatively scheduled for the afternoon of December 11th. OWEB grant 203-067 must be completed by December 31st. All information has been collected and a final report will be completed as soon as possible. OWEB grant 206-336 information has been received from project participants and the first payment request has been sent to OWEB.
• Grants Update: A request for “Sherman Development League Emergency Assistance” funds was submitted. Joli is currently working on the OWEB Council Support grant request.
• Small Grants Update: Joli reported that OWEB is allowing Small Grant Teams to re-grant funds that are not spent from completed small grants. This means that there is still $10,441 left to be allocated for grants in the County. The board reviewed and approved one request for funding.
• Lower John Day & Lower Deschutes Update: Biennial reviews have been scheduled for both areas. The Lower Deschutes meeting is scheduled to be held at The Dalles Service Center on November 27th at 9:00am. Jason will be reporting implementation progress. The Lower John Day meeting is scheduled at the Senior Center in Moro on Monday December 11th at 1:00pm.
• OWEB Conference: Brad, Joli and Brian attended the conference. They reported that there was a lot of concern in many parts of the state that OWEB is focusing too much on the riparian areas. They thought it was a good conference.
• OACD Annual Meeting: Gary, Brian, Jessa, Krista, Jason and Kristie attended. Gary suggested setting up a Deschutes/Hood River Basin meeting in order to discuss the structure of OACD. He and Krista will follow up on this proposal.
• Conservation Awards: The board discussed restoring the Conservation Farm of the Year award. It was agreed that this should be done. Further discussion will be held at the December meeting.
• Budget Planning: A budget committee will need to be formed soon. Krista will check with the Dept. of Revenue and the County Clerk to see what things need to be done. She will develop a time-line for the board. Sandy suggested involving the County Budget Committee as much as possible. He also thought it would be beneficial for the committee to include someone from Kent and Rufus since those were the areas where the measure failed.
• Residue measuring service: The Conservation Security Program requires records of residue measurements. Because of this, there may be a lot more requests for District employees to do the measurements. The District currently charges $20 per hour for Krista to measure residue for landowners. The board would like to encourage landowners to get a neighbor to do their measurements, or to contract someone other than a District employee.
• Trees: The District will be ordering trees from Lawyer Nursery, but only by the bundle so that sorting time is kept to a minimum.
• GIS Support for County: The County currently contracts out most of their GIS work. Brian asked for the board’s permission to research the possibility of the district contracting to do some or all of their mapping. The board told Brian to research it and get back to them at the December meeting.
• Trainings for Jessa: Jessa has been accepted for the NRCS planner training. The board approved sending her. She also requested permission to attend a Stream Restoration Design training being held at Skamania Lodge. She applied for a scholarship which would pay her registration & meals. The board agreed that she could attend the training if she receives the scholarship, arranges to stay some place less expensive, and her workload here at the office allows time.
• NRCS: Kristie’s report is attached to these minutes. NRCS will be billing the district quarterly for the postage meter usage. A Wheat Growers & Livestock Producers Ag Day Workshop will be held on Dec. 5th from 8 to 12 at the Sherman County Senior Center.
• OSU Extension: Sandy reported that there will be a Pesticide Core Class on December 1st at the Parish Hall in Wasco. It will begin at 8:30am. No applications for the Undercutter Grant have been received from Sherman County landowners. He asked the board to encourage any one who is interested to contact him as soon as possible.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for October 10, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  South Sherman Watershed (Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon): A council meeting will be scheduled for early November.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: A grant request for a Watershed Assessment has been submitted to OWEB. An OWEB application for Livestock Management Practices for Improved Riparian Ecosystems has also been submitted. A council meeting will be scheduled for early November.
  Grass Valley: A Technical Assistance grant is being prepared for OWEB. The project title is “Lower Grass Valley Canyon Creek Technical Assistance”. There is a project in this watershed included in the Livestock Management grant. A council meeting will be scheduled for early November. Assessment Update – The copies sent out for review have not been received back at this time. Brian will contact readers about getting their comments in.
  North Sherman: Joli is doing monitoring on direct seed acres. A fund request for OWEB grant 203-067 has been sent. A council meeting will be scheduled for early November.
• Grants Update: Monitoring reports for all OWEB grants are up to date. An application for emergency funding is being developed for submission to the Sherman County Development League.
  The board is still very concerned with the responses of the OWEB review team to our grant requests. There appears to be a lack of support for practices that are most commonly requested by our producers. These practices are recommended by NRCS and have proven effective for producers. Jeff Goebel, NRCS Deschutes Basin Team Leader, visited with the board on October 6th and suggested that we encourage producers to set a “high bar” for conservation. After discussion of this suggestion, the board concurred that the Sherman County producers and the Conservation District have always set the “high bar” for conservation. Practices that they are using or have used in the past 56 years have been targeted toward both sustainable farms and healthy resources. The board agreed that challenging people to obtain a “vision” is not accomplished by removing funding. Therefore the board will work harder at addressing questions and information gaps with the OWEB review team and will continue to submit grants requesting cost share for practices that our local producers are requesting.
• Small Grants Update: There is $5,566 left in the 05-07 Biennium funding. There are 3 projects currently left on the waiting list so the funds will be used completely. The next funds will become available in July 2007.
• Lower John Day Update: The Lower John Day Ag. Water Quality Management Area Plan is due for biennial review this winter. Krista will be working with the Gilliam County SWCD to set up a meeting in December.
• Conservation District Signs: The entering Sherman County SWCD signs should be completed by Pat Jacobsen some time this week.
• Tax Base: It was reported that a political action committee has been formed. They are working on “yard” signs and vehicle window signs. They reported that they are also planning to get an article in to the Condon paper, The Dalles paper and on Sherry Kasebergs’ web newsletter.
• OACD Annual Meeting: Gary, Tracy, Jason, Jessa, Joli and Krista will be attending for the District. Kristie will be attending for NRCS.
• OWEB Biennial Conference: The conference will be in Seaside October 25-27th. Joli, Brian and Brad plan to attend.
• Landowner vs. Contractor Billings: In recent months there have been landowners who are doing their own construction work for practices being cost shared by grants. There have been charges submitted at the contractor rate which is higher than what landowners are allowed by the District practices cost list. A motion was made by Tracy and seconded by Brad stating that the policy that must be followed is as follows; “contractors must submit proof of bonding and their contractor license number must appear on invoices in order to bill at a contractor rate”. Motion carried unanimously.
• NRCS: Kristie reported that a tentative date of December 6th has been set for an Ag. Workshop in Sherman County. She will be giving Joli information about it for the newsletter. She reported that there has been 9 EQIP applications submitted and she is really hoping that more producers will apply. A meeting will be held on November 1st to discuss a grant which could fund yield monitors for a few producers. This information will be out soon. NRCS state office has let Kristie know that there will only be two vehicles provided for the Moro field office. One of the vehicles will be for Mary Beth’s use. Kristie will work with the district employees to schedule use of the other vehicle to keep the hardship to the district to a minimum.
• OSU Extension: Sandy reported that the annual Wheat Growers League meeting is coming up. He asked Joli to check with him for information that he would like to have included in our newsletter. Gary asked Sandy and Tracy for information about the classification of Canada Thistle in the County. He expressed concern about a very large patch that is not being treated. He will contact Rod Asher about the problem.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for September 12, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon: Several landowners from the combined watershed area attended a Conservation After Hours meeting. They all expressed interest in combining the area which drains into the Deschutes River in to one watershed council. Joli will be scheduling a meeting for them in October. A monitoring report for Macks Canyon OWEB grant 99-279 was completed.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Linnea Holmes has been assisting Joli with monitoring reports for OWEB grants 99-013 and 203-068. The BPA funding request has not been approved at this time, and reports indicate that it will not be funded.
  Grass Valley: OWEB grant 204-227 has been completed. The grant completed 23 cropland and 3 rangeland water/sediment control basins, 6,712 feet of level terraces, 13,987 feet of reconstructed gradient terraces and 2 spring developments. Assessment – The draft is being reviewed by board members and several landowners in the watershed.
  North Sherman: Joli is collecting the final monitoring for direct seed OWEB grant 203-067. Final payments for this grant will be made as soon as all data is received. Monitoring is being conducted this month for the new direct seed OWEB grant 206-336. First payments will be made in November.
• Grants Update: The OWEB application that was submitted in April 2006 was recommended for funding with conditions, but there may not be enough funding to cover it because it was ranked 12th of 12. The board reviewed the regional review team comments and discussed the best course of action to be taken. OWEB has become almost totally riparian focused. The OWEB staff suggested that they talk with applicants and review teams about the upland practices (terraces and sediment basins) that they are reluctant to fund. Jeff Goebel suggested that the board apply for funding for the type of projects that OWEB is currently funding. It was pointed out that the landowners and the district are focusing large amounts of time to the CREP program. With all of the miles of CREP going in to riparian areas there is really very little that can be applied for in those areas. Sandy suggested that we apply to the Ford or Gates Foundation. Also suggested was asking Merlin Berg of Wy’east RC&D to search his funding source data base for an organization that would be willing to fund upland practices that are being requested by landowners. District staff will compile more information to present to the OWEB staff about the practices that our landowners are applying for.
  Grant applications for the October OWEB deadline are being prepared for Range Management (Solar/Wind Hybrid pump systems), Pine Hollow/Jackknife Assessment, and Grass Valley Technical Assistance. Grant applications that may be submitted to other funding agencies are for upland conservation practices and Gerking Canyon Technical Assistance. A fund request is also being prepared for the Sherman County Development League.
• Small Grants Update: There is $5,566 left in the 05-07 Biennium funding. There are 3 projects currently left on the waiting list so the funds will be used completely. The next funds will become available in July 2007.
• Lower John Day Update: The BPA funding for technical assistance which partially funds Jason, Jessa, Joli and Brian is currently expected to continue until April 30, 2007. The final decision on continuing the funding has not been made.
• Lower Deschutes Update: The Deschutes Resource Conservancy has an opening on their board of directors. Gary has expressed interest in filling this position. He and Brian will be communicating with DRC.
• Conservation District Signs: The applications for placement of five signs along the state roads has been approved. Signs will be made by Pat Jacobsen of Manifest Signs & Tokens.
• Conservation After Hours Meetings: Six meetings were held with a total of 51 landowners attending. Those attending asked that more meetings of this kind be held and several signed up to have them on their property. It was suggested that they be planned for late winter or early spring. Discussion will continue at the October meeting.
• Tax Base: The board discussed what the high priority things are in order to get the word out about the tax measure. The Political Action Committee is being started by Tom McCoy. Board members volunteered to attend city council meetings and will also be attending fire and health district meeting.
• Review Audit: A motion was made by Tracy and seconded by Gary to contract with Russell & Associates to do the 2006-2007 District audit. Motion carried.
• OACD Annual Meeting: At least one director should attend in order to represent the county at the board meeting. This will be discussed at the October meeting.
• NRCS: EQIP sign ups end on November 30, 2006. Spot checks on HEL lands will be done in mid-October. Final deadline for reporting all CSP enhancements is Sept. 15h and CRP contracts by Sept. 20. Shannon Esterman and Stephen Riese will be assisting Kristie with meeting these deadlines. The fund request for the District Contribution agreement funding has been sent. Jason and Brian will be assisting FSA with design and inspection of structures funded by ECP. The soil survey in Wheeler County has been made a top priority by NRCS in Oregon. It should be completed by 2008. At that time the Lower John Day Watershed will become eligible for the Conservation Security Program. NRCS is requiring all district employees to submit information for a security check in order to be on the computer system. Employees are required to allow a credit check as part of the security check. They are letting OACD know that they think a credit check is excessive. The board may also be asked to participate in the security checks at some point because they have access to plans and possibly computers.
• FSA: Kevin reported that the CRP reenrollment is nearly completed. Elections for the South County committee representative will be held in December. Candidates are Stuart vonBorstel and Tim Jeffries.
• OSU Extension: Sandy presented information on a grant funded through the Washington Assoc. of Wheat Growers for purchase cost of the new Undercutter that is being used for reduced tillage. The grant allows a 50% cost share. There are only funds for 50 participants. Applications are available through extension or NRCS.
• Wy'East RC&D: Funding is available for workshops in Sherman County. Jessa asked the board for ideas for subjects to be addressed. The suggested Residue Measuring for record keeping, potentials for bio-fuels, information about orchards and vineyards, and information about precision farming. Staff will work on putting together a workshop to be held this fall.

No Board Meetings Held in July or August.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for June 13, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon: Macks Canyon OWEB 99-279 3rd year monitoring report is nearly completed. Joli will talk with landowners about combining Macks and Buck Hollow watersheds info one council during “Conservation After Hours” meetings.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Monitoring reports are being done on 2 OWEB grants. Linnea is assisting Joli with the reports. The temperature monitoring gauges were sent off for upgrades. They will be launched as soon as they are returned.
  Grass Valley: OWEB grant 203-178 has been completed. The final report has been sent. Thirteen water and sediment control basins and 64,172 feet of terrace were completed utilizing funds from this grant. Assessment-Jeff reported that Jason is working on proof-reading and Brian has been assisting him on completing the landowner project maps.
  North Sherman: Direct seed monitoring data is being collected for OWEB grant 206-336.
• Grants Update: OWEB grant 204-227 must be completed by June 30, 2006. Landowners have been notified.
• Small Grants Update: Small grant applications were reviewed and approved for funding. A motion was made by Kyle and seconded by Brad to combine the remaining funds in the Lower Deschutes and the Lower John Day in order to fund applications. Motion carried unanimously.
• Lower John Day Update: The BPA Technical Assistance grant and the Pine Hollow/Jackknife BPA grant were not recommended for funding by the Oregon Sub-basin Plan Implementation Team (OSPIT). Jason is following up with several of the BPA contacts to see if we can lobby for approval on the grants. The final decision will be made by July 15th. The only technical assistance grant that was recommended for funding was in the Deschutes sub-basin. We were assured that our grants would be considered on a regional basis, but this does not appear to be how it was done. Perhaps if we had requested that our application be ranked in the Deschutes Sub-basin it could have been funded. Jason will follow up on this concern.
• Lower Deschutes Update: Nothing new to report.
• Local Work Group Meeting: A local work group meeting needs to be held before the end of September. The date will be set as soon as possible.
• 2007 Annual Work Plan & Workload Analysis: A motion was made by Brad and seconded by Kyle to give Tracy the authority to do the final review and approval of the 2007 Annual Work Plan, Workload Analysis, and ODA Statement of work and budget. Motion carried unanimously.
• Conservation District Signs: Jessa is working on designs and price quotes with Pat Jacobsen of Manifest Signs & Tokens. The district would like to put up an office door sign, a sign on the outside of the building, a “Brand Board” at the fair, and five signs at the entrances to the County.
• "Conservation After Hours": The first “After Hours” will be held at Gary Irzyk’s on Thursday evening. A public “After Hours” has been set for June 22nd at 7 PM at the Senior Center in Moro.
• Director Election: Packets will be given to Bill, Kyle and Tracy. Krista has sent the Notice of Election to The Dalles Chronicle.
• Postage Meter: The District was notified by FSA that we will no longer be able to use the USDA postal meter as of June 30th. Krista will research ways to replace that service, either by internet postage or renting our own postage meter.
• NRCS: Kristie reported that seventeen CRP applications for reenrollment have been received. She discussed the EQIP program progress. The “Conservation After Hours” planning and goals were discussed. Bill will be setting a time to meet at his shop after harvest so that CSP enhancements can be discussed. Jessa reported that approximately 8062 acres has been put in to the CREP and CCRP programs since 2000 bringing $488,920 in to the county annually.
• FSA: Kevin reported that the FSA newsletter will be coming out very soon. The County Committee position for the south part of the county is coming up for election. A nomination form is included in the newsletter. ECP sign ups are still open. He also reported that the national office stated that any stream with seasonal flow is eligible for CREP.
• Sherman County Court: Steve reported that the County Road department had applied for FEMA funding to repair storm damaged roads. He also brought the board up to date on the possibility of Azure Standard Farms putting a distribution center in Moro. He asked the District to contact the landowner above the proposed building to talk about some additional terraces and/or water & sediment control basins.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for May 9, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  Buck Hollow: Brian completed the monitoring photos that Ron Graves had requested. We will be reimbursed for the time and travel.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: An extension until December 31, 2006 was received for OWEB grant 204-142. This grant is also cost shared with BPA funds.
  Grass Valley: Jeff handed out a map showing the overview of projects that were reported for the assessment. He was asked to add the residue management to the map.
  Macks Canyon: No projects are currently being implemented.
  North Sherman: Projects are being done using both OWEB and EQIP funds.
• Grants Update: Two large OWEB grants (203-178 & 204-227) have to be completed by June 30, 2006. The Direct Seed Incentive grant (OWEB 206-336) agreement has been signed and landowners notified. Field visits and monitoring will begin this Fall. The spring grant for OWEB was delivered to Salem by Jason. The grant involves 22 landowners on 37 project sites. Total project cost estimate is $306,763 with $229,734 being requested from OWEB.
• Small Grants Update: The committee reviewed one small grant request for the Lower John Day for terraces. The request was approved. A request for Brush Control in the Lower Deschutes was also approved.
• Lower John Day Update: Jason attended the Sub Basin meetings where the project proposals were prioritized. Our Pine Hollow request was ranked 16th out of 17. The Technician (buffer) grant was ranked in a three way tie for 9th. Jason proposed that an alternate request for Technician funding be offered asking for less money. Gary moved and Brad seconded a motion to allow staff to revise the Technician budget and request a smaller amount if possible from BPA. Motion carried.
• Lower Deschutes Update: Jason attended the Sub Basin meeting even though both of our project proposals were ranked in the John Day basin. The ranking process was similar, but the decision was made to present all eight proposals as top priority.
• Tax Base for the District: The board gave the staff permission to begin getting signs for the county lines, front of the building, office door and possibly the tree plot to make the public more familiar with the district name. Gary asked Krista to get the board and staff information about what is allowed for promoting the tax base.
• June Meeting: The regular June meeting will be held at 8:30 AM on June 13th. Gary and Krista will make plans for the Oyster and Steak Feed to be held at the fair grounds at 5:30 PM on June 13th.
• Annual Work Plan/Workload Analysis for 2007: Krista handed out the draft 2007 Work Plan for the board to review. She asked for comments before the next meeting so that the final draft can be approved. The Workload Analysis will be presented at the June meeting. The Business Plan was also updated.
• OACD Big Board Meeting: Jason participated in the Communication Committee meeting because he maintains the OACD web site. Since Gary was unable to attend the board meeting, Jason stayed for the Saturday session. The board developed several priority issues that will be worked on by committees between now and the November OACD conference. The main concern is legislative activity. Jason stressed how important he felt it was that board members attend these OACD meetings. Bill suggested that members take turns attending. Conference attendance will be discussed at the September meeting.
• Job Approval: Brian and Kristie will work on getting Brian’s job approval authority reinstated. The board is sending a letter of request to the state office.
• Employee Insurance: Brian researched options for insurance that will keep employees within the budget limits. He recommended a policy that will keep the rate down to a $10 per month increase in premium. A motion was made by Tracy and seconded by Kyle to have the employees switch to that policy unless they can find a comparable policy for less. Motion carried.
• Fair Display: Plans are being made to have a booth at the fair that will highlight accomplishments of the District in order to promote the tax measure. An interactive “farm” display is also in the planning stages.
• NRCS: Kristie presented the Operational Agreement. The board agreed to sign it. The Lower Deschutes will be recommended for the next CSP selection. Kristie encouraged the board to have several small meetings, possibly in some shops, in order to get information out to landowners. The board agreed and Gary offered his shop as a meeting spot.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for April 11, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  Buck Hollow: One Macks Canyon landowner requested that the District try again to get a Buck Hollow/Macks Canyon watershed council formed.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: The annual REDD count that was scheduled for today had to be postponed because of the wet conditions.
  Grass Valley: Jeff handed out a list of questions and concerns that he has received from people who have proof read the assessment. He addressed each of the concerns. The board asked Jeff to omit the Deschutes watershed portion of the Grass Valley Canyon Watershed Council boundary. That area will be included in a future assessment on the Deschutes side. Jeff predicts that he will be finished digitizing maps by the end of this week. Jason volunteered himself and Joli to help Jeff use the inventory data in the assessment. Jeff hopes to have the revised draft ready for another review in ten days.
  Macks Canyon: Nothing new to report.
  North Sherman: Projects are being implemented.
• Grants Update: There are three large OWEB grants that must be completed by June 30th. Landowners involved have been contacted. The new Direct Seed Incentive grant was approved for funding, but contracts have not been received yet. Joli is planning to resubmit a grant request for the Solar/Wind Hybrid Off-stream Watering grant in the Fall OWEB cycle. She is currently working on two OWEB grant applications. After some discussion, a motion was made by Kyle and seconded by Gary to include all of the requests for projects in one grant application. They felt that it was more straight forward and would cause less concern to the review team if only one grant is submitted. Motion carried. Mary Beth suggested checking with FSA to see if the Emergency Conservation Program funds ($38,477) could help with some of the winter weather damage.
• Small Grants Update: Joli had prepared packets for the members to review and vote on. They discussed the grants, marked their vote for “fund” or “do not fund” and left them for Joli.
• Lower John Day Update: Jason will be attending a BPA Sub Basin prioritization meeting in John Day this Thursday and Friday.
• Lower Deschutes Update: The BPA Sub Basin project prioritization meeting will be coming up soon. The board asked that Joli, Krista or Jason plan to attend.
• Wheeler County Soil Survey: Gary Thompson sent a request for $1.2 million in Federal appropriations for the completion of the Wheeler County Soil Survey. He may want a letter of support from the board later.
• County Budget Meeting: Krista and Gary attended the County budget hearing this afternoon. The District is requesting $5000. The County Budget committee indicated that the amount will probably be approved.
• Tax Base for the District: Gary and Krista discussed the proposed tax base with the County budget committee. The feedback was very positive. It was suggested that the District should try for a much larger rate. A motion was made by Brad and seconded by Kyle to try for a rate of $0.26 per $1,000 on the November ballot. Motion carried. The board asked Krista to check with the county to find out how the loss of funds will impact the County funds specifically by department. The staff was asked to develop informational packets to be presented to city councils as soon as possible.
• NRCS: This is Mary Beth’s last SWCD meeting as District Conservationist. She thanked the board for all of the time and effort the put in to their jobs as directors.
• OWRD: Joel Clark, Water Master from Condon introduced himself and described his job.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for March 14, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  Buck Hollow: Ron Graves has requested assistance with monitoring photos. Joli and Jason are willing to assist, but they are very busy at this time. They will contact Ron about locations and time frame.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: Grazing plans for OWEB grant 206-123 were completed so fund requests should be filled soon.
  Grass Valley: Jeff handed out “nearly” completed copies of the assessment. He is hoping to have the portion that will go out to agencies for review completed by Thursday. He will be sending it to ODFW, NRCS, Extension Service and OWEB.
  Macks Canyon: Nothing new to report.
  North Sherman: The third year monitoring report for OWEB grant 99-552 was sent in.
• Grants Update: Joli reported that three large OWEB grants have a completion date of June 30, 2006. Participants have all been notified and work is being done this spring to complete as many projects as possible. Reminders have been sent out to all individuals who still have OWEB funding available. Joli plans to keep every participant updated regarding their projects every six months. The OWEB evaluation of the most recent grant applications was received. The North Sherman/Grass Valley Direct Seed Incentive grant was recommended for funding at 4th out of 11 with the suggestion that fiscal administration be reduced by 50%. This would put admin at 5% of the total grant which the board felt was not reasonable. Joli will contact Rick Craiger about it. The Solar/Wind Hybrid Off-Stream Water Development grant was not recommended for funding. The comments indicated that the review team would have liked to have grazing plan information included in the application. Joli will discuss reapplying for the project with the producers involved. One of Wasco County SWCD’s fund requests for sediment basins was turned down by the OWEB review team. This caused a lot of concern to the Board. They feel that the OWEB review team is not aware of the value of sediment basins and terraces in this part of the state. More efforts need to be made to market the advantages and needs for these practices. The board asked Joli to request letters of support from the watershed councils in the county that would go out to OWEB and the review team members.
• Small Grants Update: Joli and Jason are working with several landowners on small grant proposals. There are 17 landowners on the list. Joli completed one two year monitoring report and sent off one fund request. There was one contract that had to be canceled.
• Lower John Day Update: The BPA Sub Basin planning group will be meeting to prioritize projects on April 26th. Jason had received correspondence saying that several of the committee members would like to meet earlier. Jason will attend the meetings.
• Lower Deschutes Update: The project prioritization for the Deschutes Sub Basin is also happening soon. Mary Beth had received a notice from Patricia Gainsforth saying that the meeting will be March 29th in Madras. Our BPA applications will both be reviewed in the John Day Sub Basin so attendance at the Deschutes meeting is optional.
• Tax Base for the District: It is the consensus of the entire board that the SWCD needs to seek a permanent tax base. A budgeting and planning meeting will be held on Tuesday March 21st at 7:00 PM. The board would like to get the measure on the November 2006 election ballot.
• OACD/ODA Meeting: Gary, Joli and Krista attended the meeting in Maupin. Gary was appointed to serve as the Deschutes/Hood River Basin Chair. He agreed to serve in the position temporarily. He discussed the proposed reorganization of OACD. There will be a meeting in Bend on May 6th for delegates from each District. The OACD board would like each District to select a delegate and an alternate to attend the meeting of the “big or full” board. At this time the board agreed that they would like Gary to serve as the delegate. ODA presented the back ground and process for Operational Reviews that will be conducted in all Conservation Districts. OACD Chair John McDonald presented the new Personnel Handbook for Directors and District Managers.
• Wheeler County Soil Survey: Gary Thompson sent off a request for funding to complete the soil survey in Wheeler County so that the John Day Watershed can be considered for the Conservation Security Program. Krista will get more information from Gary to report to the board.
• NRCS: Mary Beth reported that there are 7 EQIP contracts in the county for a total of $173,882. She attended a Master Planner meeting where Bob Graham talked about the importance of precision farming and also discussed the new self assessment tools that are available for producers. The application period for the District Conservationist position here in Moro closes on March 21st.
• OSU Extension: Sandy reported that the Shaping Sherman Development League will have grant funding available soon. They are currently working on the application form. Sandy will keep the board updated.
• Sherman County Court: Steve Burnet, County Commissioner, had asked if the SWCD would share a graduate student on a half time basis which would cost the district approximately $17,000. The board would like more information from Steve.

Sherman SWCD Board Highlights for February 14, 2006

• Watershed Updates
  Buck Hollow: A watershed council meeting was scheduled for February 8th in Grass Valley. Only one landowner attended the meeting. He is from the Macks Canyon watershed. The board discussed how to get the information out to the landowners so that they attend future meetings. Sandy suggested setting up one or two meetings in someone’s shop.
  Pine Hollow/Jackknife: A watershed council meeting was held in Kent on February 9th. The council adopted a new Action Plan. OWEB funding opportunities were discussed. Jason reported on the recent meeting of the Lower John Day Ag. Water Quality local advisory committee.
  Grass Valley: The watershed council met on February 7th. OWEB funding opportunities were discussed. Jason reported on the recent meeting of the Lower John Day Ag. Water Quality local advisory committee. Jeff reported that he will have copies of the Grass Valley Watershed Assessment for the board at the Annual Meeting. He received ten more maps after the council meeting. The council formed a committee to do review and proof reading of the assessment. The board asked that Jeff set a time limit for return of revisions. They also want him to get the draft out to the partnering agencies for review as soon as possible and to set up arrangements for printing. Jeff will be digitizing maps while the drafts are out for review.
  Macks Canyon: Nothing new to report.
  North Sherman: A watershed council meeting was held in Wasco on February 6th. The council adopted a new Action Plan. OWEB funding opportunities were discussed. Jason reported on the recent meeting of the Lower John Day Ag. Water Quality local advisory committee.
• Grants Update: Joli reported that BPA will be prioritizing project requests. The dates for the local groups to meet are April 25th in Madras for the Deschutes Subbasin and April 26th in Condon for the John Day Subbasin. Staff will need to attend either one or both of these meetings depending on how our Technical Assistance proposal is handled. Final project funding recommendations will be done in October. The next deadline for OWEB grant proposals is April 24th, so landowners have been asked to get requests for project funding in to Joli by March 10th.
• Small Grants Update: There has been no activity this month in the Lower Deschutes. Two projects in the Lower John Day must be completed by March 1st or funding will be lost. The overall balance of remaining funds is $52,489 with $25,070 of it available in the Lower Deschutes and $27,419 in the Lower John Day.
• Lower John Day Update: The Lower John Day Ag. Water Quality Local Advisory Committee met in Condon on January 30th. The next meeting will be held in September this year to prepare for the Biennial Review that will be completed by December 2006.
• Lower Deschutes Update: Nothing new to report.
• Recent Runoff Event: Landowners have been requesting assistance for damage caused by the recent unusual weather event. Damage to existing structures caused by the weather event, no matter what the age of the structure, are eligible for cost share assistance from the district and/or EQIP. Staff will prioritize the work and evaluate whether damage was a storm or maintenance issue. Kevin said that FSA will be requesting ECP funds for repair work. They have talked about requesting $15 to $20 thousand, but the District felt that there would be a need for at least $25,000. Joli will contact landowners to let them know that cost share funding will be sought for storm damage.
• Annual Meeting: The proposed agenda for the Annual Meeting was reviewed. Kevin agreed to give an update from the Farm Service Agency. Mary Beth will give an NRCS update. The board discussed what questions they will have for Bob Graham. Krista will finalize the agenda and get a copy to Bill.
• Tax Base for the District: The board would like to push for getting the tax base on the November 7, 2006 ballot. Jason will c