HomeMy WebLinkAboutWildlife Habitat Conservation Mgmt ProgramDepartment of Administrative Services
Dave Kanner, County Administrator
1300 NW Wall St, Suite 200, Bend, OR 97701-1960
[541 ] 388-6570 - Fax [541 ] 385-3202
www.co.deschutes. or. us
January 19, 2011
TO: Board of Commissioners
FROM: Dave Kanner
RE: Wildlife Habitat Conservation Management program
Last year, the Board of Commissioners requested a work session discussion of the
Wildlife Habitat Conservation Management Program (WHCMP), after a citizen raised
questions about it during a Board business meeting. The program provides tax deferral
incentives for EFU land that meets certain criteria. That work session is scheduled for
January 24. Larry Pacenka of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife and Scot
Langton, County Assessor, will be in attendance.
WHCMP is a state program. There are about 125 tax accounts in Deschutes County
participating in the program. Attached is some background information about the
program provided by ODFW.
Enhancing the Lives of Citizens by Delivering Quality Services in a Cost -Effective Manner
*OREGON
ri/4
Fish &Wildlife
WILDLIFE HABITAT CONSERVATION
MANAGEMENT PROGRAM (WHCMP)
http:/!www.dfw.state.ro.us/]ands/whcmp overview.html
The program's focus is to preserve, enhance or improve the composition, structure, and
function of habitat for native wildlife, particularly for wildlife species Listed by Oregon as
Sensitive, Threatened or Endangered. Emphasis is on native habitats that have been
identified as scarce, becoming scarce, of special ecological significance, or areas of
special interest within a city or on lands zoned Exclusive Farm Use (EFU) in rural
Deschutes county.
Homesite location is an important consideration for protection of wildlife habitat values.
Locating new dwellings or structural improvements to minimize conflict with existing or
proposed habitat keeps quality habitat on a property in as large an undisturbed acreage as
possible, one of the conservation and management practices appropriate to achieve the
objectives of this program (WHCMP Administrative Rule 635-430-0030 (14)). A new
homesite planned to be located in the central area of a property and/or the identified
wildlife habitat on that property, does not provide the optimum protection for wildlife
habitat, and will not receive favorable consideration for WHCMP plan approval.
Due to a backlog of compliance checks on properties already enrolled in WHCMP,
ODFW will not be approving any plans for the current year that include livestock,
grazing or haying, unless ODFW determines that the property contains high quality
and/or quantity of wildlife habitat (WHCMP Administrative Rule 635-430-0050 (6)).
These agricultural activities may be better served by agricultural deferral. Plans that
identify restoration of acreages previously converted for agricultural purposes back to
native wildlife habitat will continue to be considered for approval.
For additional information, contact:
Larry Pecenka — ODFW Habitat Biologist
ODFW High Desert Region
61374 Pannell Road
Bend, OR 97702
(541) 388-6363
larry.l.ncecnka@state.or.us
Created on 5/11/2005 10:14:00 AM
Orcgon
'Theodore R Kukaigosld, Gose nor
Department of Fish and Wildlife
High Desert Region
61374 Farrell Road
Bend, OR 97702
(541) 388-6363
FAX (541) 388-6281
August 10, 2010
Dear Wildlife Habitat Conservation and Management Program (WHCMP) participants,
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) hopes this letter finds you well and enjoying the
benefits of your property managed for the protection, restoration and enhancement of wildlife habitat.
With this letter you will find the results of the questionnaire that is intended to provide some feedback
on participating landowners' purpose for WHCMP enrollment and their experience of interaction with
ODFW staff. Thank you to those who returned the questionnaire, it is greatly appreciated and will help
Deschutes County and ODFW evaluate how this program is being implemented.
Explanation of results:
The first two questions were to be answered by priority. Not all responders did that, so only the ones that
did had their answers recorded.
Example:
(37) responses indicated "Rural residence for yourself" as their first #1 priority.
(4) responses indicated "Rural residence for yourself" as their second #2 priority. And so on.
(0) responses indicated "Place for irrigated pasture and/or hay" as their first #1 priority.
(4) responses indicated "Place for irrigated pasture and/or hay" as their second #2 priority. And so on.
Hope that helps make these recorded results clear.
Questions three through nine have a number in parentheses () indicating how many chose that answer or
statement. Not all respondents answered every question.
All "statements" were recorded as written by the landowner on the questionnaire.
ODFW thanks all of you who are participating in the WHCMP and your response to this questionnaire
helping continue the Deschutes County, ODFW and Private Landowner Partnership to conserve and
restore fish and wildlife habitat in Central Oregon. We look forward to our continued partnership for the
benefit of wildlife and their habitat needs.
Call me if you have any questions about the results of this questionnaire. Thank you for your help, we
appreciate your cooperation.
Sincerely,
Larry Pecenka
ODFW Habitat Biologist
(541) 388-6444 Ext. 229
Copy: Steven George, ODFW Wildlife Biologist, Deschutes Watershed District
Amy Stuart, ODFW Watershed Manager, Deschutes Watershed District
Patty Snow, ODFW Land and Water Coordinator, Salem
Eric Sexton, Deschutes County Assessor Office
'Theodore R Kuh gcski, Govanor
Department of Fish and Wildlife
High Desert Region
61374 Farrell Road
Bend, OR 97702
(541) 388-6363
FAX (541) 388-6281
May 12, 2010
Dear Wildlife Habitat Conservation and Management Program (WHCMP) participants,
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) hopes this letter finds you well and enjoying the
benefits of your property managed for the protection, restoration and enhancement of wildlife habitat.
With this letter you will find a questionnaire that is intended to provide ODFW with some feedback on
your purpose for WHCMP enrollment and your experience of interaction with ODFW staff. This
information is needed to reassure Deschutes County Commissioners, the Deschutes County Assessor,
and ODFW Administration that the WHCMP is a valid reason to provide tax deferral to you as the
participating landowner, and to help maintain this program as an opportunity into the future. Your return
of the questionnaire is greatly appreciated and will also help ODFW evaluate how we are implementing
this program.
In Deschutes County, the WHCMP has completed its twelfth year. Last year we sent a letter stating that
more than 100 properties were currently enrolled and that approximately 4,000 acres were being
managed for conservation and restoration of wildlife habitat as specified in individually signed plans.
This amount of acreage dedicated to wildlife habitat conservation and restoration could really make a
difference in sustaining the wildlife habitat resources in Central Oregon if all the agreed upon plans were
implemented as approved.
ODFW thanks all of you who are participating in the WHCMP and your response to this questionnaire
will help continue the ODFW, Deschutes County, and Private Landowner Partnership to conserve and
restore fish and wildlife habitat in Central Oregon. We look forward to our continued partnership for the
benefit of wildlife and their habitat needs.
Call me if you have any questions about the questionnaire. Please find a self addressed stamped
envelope provided with the questionnaire. Please return the questionnaire by July 1, 2010. Thank you for
your help, we appreciate your cooperation.
Sincerely,
Larry Pecenka
ODFW Habitat Biologist
(541) 388-6444 Ext. 229
Copy: Steven George, ODFW Wildlife Biologist, Deschutes Watershed District
Amy Stuart, ODFW Watershed Manager, Deschutes Watershed District
Patty Snow, ODFW Land and Water Coordinator, Salem
Oregon
Theodore R Kulongaski, Goy
Department of Fish and Wildlife
High Desert Region
61374 Farrell Road
Bend, OR 97702
(541) 388-6363
FAX (541) 388-6281
March 9, 2009
Dear Wildlife Habitat Conservation and Management Program (WHCMP) participants,
The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) hopes this letter finds you well and enjoying the
benefits of your property managed for the protection, restoration and enhancement of wildlife habitat.
In Deschutes County, the WHCMP is completing its eleventh year. Last year we sent a letter stating that
more than 100 properties were currently enrolled and that approximately 4,000 acres were being
managed for conservation and restoration of wildlife habitat as specified in individually signed plans.
This amount of acreage dedicated to wildlife habitat conservation and restoration would really make a
difference in sustaining the wildlife habitat resources in Central Oregon if all the agreed upon plans were
being implemented as approved.
Unfortunately, a number of landowners have chosen to make changes in management decisions for their
property without approval of ODFW, they are not meeting the agreement in their approved plan or the
objectives of WHCMP. ODFW has removed 18 properties from WHCMP enrollment with back -
tax consequences to those landowners. Another 10 properties are teetering on the brink of
removal.
ODFW chose to not continue property enrollment in WHCMP during the past two years due to the
workload required to monitor property enrollment and manage landowners in non-compliance with plan
implementation. Through continued property inspections, ODFW still finds most participating
landowners (-65%) to be following their WHCMP plans and ODFW wishes to thank you for your
commitment to your agreements. Likewise, some landowners (-35%) were not following their plans for
a variety of reasons, rendering their property development and management to be in non-compliance
with the signed plan. This resulted in ODFW continuing to take action to help the landowner get back in
compliance or to help the landowner remove their property from program enrollment.
Non-compliance issues were as varied as the properties and the landowners enrolled. Some
non-compliance issues that have caused property removal from WHCMP are:
1. Failure to implement plan activities as approved with no notice to ODFW, and after
period to take corrective action (Oregon Administrative Rule [OAR] 635-430-0090
still not fulfilling the agreement as identified in the approved plan. This includes:
• Seedings
• Plantings
• Water developments
• Juniper control
• Livestock grazing
• Fence construction or removal
• Haying
• Weed control
• Pet control
• Nest box construction
examples of
a six month
5, 6, &7),
2. Partitioning the property and adding additional County permitted homesites with no notice to and
approval by ODFW.
3. Construction of facilities and structures not identified in their approved plan.
4. Bringing businesses onto the property not identified in the approved plan and that are in conflict
with protecting wildlife habitat values on the property.
In short, if development or management of a property enrolled in WHCMP wasn't implemented as
agreed to in the plan, or development or property management took place that wasn't agreed to in the
plan, then the landowner was found in non-compliance. If it's in the ODFW approved plan, it should
be on the property. If it's not in the plan, it should not be on the property.
There is a process for requesting an amendment to an approved plan to maintain or improve protection
or restoration of habitat that may receive ODFW approval. This request must be presented to ODFW in
writing and take place Wu to making any changes to the property and management as identified in the
approved plan. However, proposed amendments that would diminish wildlife habitat value of the
property will not be approved.
The Department encourages all participating landowners to review and follow the requirements of their
approved plan. ODFW wants to work with participants who are dedicated to the conservation of fish and
wildlife habitat, while also helping participants who have decided to develop or manage their property
for other uses not identified in their plan to opt out of the program.
ODFW thanks all of you who are participating in the WHCMP with the intention of conservation and
restoration of fish and wildlife habitat in Central Oregon. We look forward to our continued partnership
for the benefit of wildlife and their habitat needs.
Call me if you have any questions about your participation with WHCMP and compliance with your
approved plan.
Sincerely,
Larry Pecenka
ODFW Habitat Biologist
(541) 388-6444 Ext. 229
Copy: Steven George, ODFW Wildlife Biologist, Deschutes Watershed District
Amy Stuart, ODFW Watershed Manager, Deschutes Watershed District
Patty Snow, ODFW Land and Water Coordinator, Salem
2
Wildlife Habitat Conservation and Management Program
(WHCMP)
Questionnaire
Use additional sheets if necessary for your response
1. What is your purpose for owning rural property?
(Number by priority)
Rural residence for yourself
Place for irrigated pasture and/or hay
Place for livestock
Opportunity to protect, restore and enhance fish and wildlife habitat
Investment property
Other (please be specific)
2. What was your purpose for enrolling in WHCMP?
(Number by priority)
Protect and manage property for fish and wildlife habitat benefits
Tax relief
Avoid Farm Deferral back taxes for building a Non -Farm Dwelling
Other (please be specific)
3. How many years have you been in the WHCMP?
4. Have you initiated contact with ODFW staff after enrollment in WHCMP for
advice or a request for an ODFW property visit?
Yes No
If "Yes" please explain the reason for requested ODFW assistance:
5. Has your property been inspected by ODFW staff for compliance with your
ODFW approved WHCMP plan?
Yes No
6. What has been your experience working with ODFW staff?
(Please check all that apply)
Helpful with WHCMP enrollment
Knowledgeable about fish, wildlife and habitat management
Knowledgeable about WHCMP participation requirements
Available when asked for information or to make a property visit
Not available when needed
Difficult to work with, inflexible
Unreasonable expectations for WHCMP participation
Disrespectful, lack of consideration for the landowner
Other (please be specific)
7. Do you think WHCMP participants should be held accountable to comply with
their agreed to plans, allowing modifications to the plan only after having
discussed a proposed change and receiving ODFW approval prior to the change
of property management?
Yes _ No Please explain:
8. If your property management has been found to be in "Non -Compliance" with
your ODFW approved WHCMP plan, what was your experience in working
with ODFW staff through the process for coming back into compliance?
(Please check all that apply)
I have not been in Non -Compliance with my WHCMP plan
ODFW staff was courteous and helpful
ODFW staff was willing to work with me to correct the situation
ODFW provided in writing the problem(s) of Non -Compliance
ODFW staff provided clear expectations to correct the situation
ODFW staff was not very understanding of the situation
ODFW staff expects too much from the landowner
ODFW should not have the right to tell the landowner what to do
Other (please be specific)
9. Would you recommend the WHCMP to other eligible property owners?
Yes _ No Please explain:
10. Additional comments?
Not required but useful:
Name:
Mailing address:
Phone number:
Wildlife Habitat Conservation and Management Program
(WHCMP)
Questionnaire
Use additional sheets if necessary for your response
1. What is your purpose for owning rural property?
(Number by priority)
Rural residence for yourself
#1 (37) #2 (4) #3 (2) #4 (1) #5 (1)
_ Place for irrigated pasture and/or hay
#1 (0) #2 (4) #3 (5) #4 (6) #5 (1)
_ Place for livestock
#1 (3) #2 (3) #3 (6) #4 (1)
Opportunity to protect, restore and enhance fish and wildlife habitat
#1 (10) #2 (24) #3 (6) #4 (5)
Investment property
#1 (0) #2 (4) #3 (6) #4 (3) #5 (7)
Other (please be specific)
• "We live in Portland and this property provides an opportunity to enjoy and
enhance the High Desert habitat. We use the site about 10-20 days a year &
the native animals use it the remainder of the time."
• "Didn't know this was deer winter range when I moved here. Water rights
leased out to restore WhyChus Creek. Opportunity to fulfill estate plans and
leave acreage in natural state for wildlife habitat for future generations."
• "Horses."
• "We were ranching (hay, cows, horses) for 25 years until we learned of the
opportunity to join the WHCMP."
• "Private property owned for private reasons. With a right to tax deferral as
the sole compensation for keeping open space for public benefit.
(Philosophical, don't get hung up on Statute and Rule — I think those also
miss the mark some.)"
• "#1 — Best quality of life opportunity."
• "#2 — Capture as large an acreage with our budget that could be kept whole
and never developed — preferable next to BLM land."
• "#2 — Commitment to Oregon & Deschutes County."
• "Share w/community the value of preservation."
• "Land close to my parents home."
• "#3 — Privacy & quiet enjoyment of my surroundings."
• "#3 — A healthy, beautiful, natural environment for our family (a habitat that
is healthy for what nature put here is healthy for us."
• "I enjoy living in a rural setting and plan to establish a residence for myself.
I feel that protecting the area and enhancing the valuable natural habitat
should be paramount on everyone's priority list. I enjoy the efforts to restore
and protect."
• "Part-time residence, vacation property."
1
2. What was your purpose for enrolling in WHCMP?
(Number by priority)
Protect and manage property for fish and wildlife habitat benefits
#1 (35) #2 (13) #3 (3)
Tax relief
#1 (8) #2 (30) #3 (7)
Avoid Farm Deferral back taxes for building a Non -Farm Dwelling
#1 (7) #2 (2) #3 (3)
Other (please be specific)
• "The property was overgrazes (now cheatgrass is a problem) and we have
cleaned up a lot of the junk previously kept at the site."
• "Property not appropriate for farming."
• "Fulfill lifelong goal of wildlife habitat improvement and wildlife refuge —
return to natural state and leave for future generations."
• "The implementation of our WHCMP allowed us to stay in our ranch home
& lease part of our water right to the Deschutes Conservancy."
• "See above. Don't like the leading question...at all. If you want to collect
useable scoop in data integrity, you owe some outlining of the issues as they
affect landowners."
• "#1 - Property was already enrolled but I would have enrolled anyway."
• "Property was enrolled when we purchased it."
• "We weren't aware of tax situation prior to enrollment. We just continued
program of previous owner. Tax benefit is fantastic benefit — makes for
enhanced awareness."
• "#2 — Tax relief yes, but was a necessary ingredient to buy as large a parcel
as possible with the funds we had access to from previous house sales."
• "We purchased the property and this program was already attached to the
property."
• "When we bought the property it was in the program."
• "Primarily to protect the rural lands a little longer. Practice & fulfill good
stewardship."
• "Build non-farm dwelling. Could not build any other way even paying tax.
Thought it was great way. I have always wanted to be around wildlife and
help them survive around development.
• "#3 — To learn more about the ecology and wildlife of this area."
• "The WHCMP program outweighs any tax deferrals. In my particular case
the county has deemed my property development with the underground
infrastructure and moneys spent towards a building permit have been
satisfied and would grant a building permit at anytime without a time frame.
So, I would have to say that my continued enrolment in the WHCMP is at
this time of primary importance to me."
• "Purchased after it was enrolled."
3. How many years have you been in the WHCMP?
2
4. Have you initiated contact with ODFW staff after enrollment in WHCMP for
advice or a request for an ODFW property visit?
Yes (39) _ No (25)
If "Yes" please explain the reason for requested ODFW assistance:
• "To insure we were doing what was expected. To open discussions w/ODFW
in future property enhancements."
• "Info on native plants & grasses & constructing pond/ideas."
• "Obtained wildlife info, plans for bird houses & wildlife advice."
• "They contacted me and did inspection."
• "I have previous experience and continue to make habitat."
• "Confirm split rail fence along driveway was OK for WHCMP, confer
regarding restoration of bitterbrush, purchase bird box kits, inquire about
bunchgrasses."
• "I asked advice on a couple of issues & we have walked the property. I have
also consulted BLM & Deschutes Land Trust."
• "To get advice & input on tree thinning for fire prevention."
• "Compliance."
• "Advice on plan."
• "I brought some "scat"/droppings to see if it was cougar — they didn't think
so.
• "I wanted to show that we are conforming with the requirements. Also if
there was any other things that needed to be done."
• "Questions regarding native plants and bird house construction."
• "I.D. species, advise of new species, more ideas for habitat enhancement;
problems establishing bitterbrush (have even raised from seed &
transplanted). Plan change that originally deemed feasible and then not."
• "We built a berm next to Hwy 20. Mr. Pecenka came out, toured the reserve
& requested us to make certain additions to our work/restoration project."
• "Assistance with juniper management."
• "Just to make sure we are complying."
• "Information regarding wild turkeys and diminished quail population."
• "To get approval to build machine shed instead of barn. Shed was built as
per plan. See enclosed."
• "1. Noxious weed control information; posted Wildlife Habitat notices for
property perimeters; information on badger behavior; juniper sapling
control."
• "Request for information."
• "To discuss plans and obligations."
• "Make sure everything was going as planned."
• "Needed some advice about quail habitat construction and also frog habitat."
• "Guidance in developing better habitat for wildlife."
• "Sought advice from State Forester (Stu Otto) on ponderosa trees dieing &
on planting 70 new ones. Sought advice from Jim Anderson on design of 35
bird houses and bat houses."
3
• "Discuss plan."
• "Discuss juniper invasion & control."
• "Do not know what that is."
• "To obtain information on constructing an agricultural storage building on
the property."
• "Wanting to see how to help species in my area to have the lands (winter
range) for deer, bluebirds, water."
• "For advice."
• "Juniper management."
• "Direction & help in developing the best wildlife environment possible."
• "A few times for different reasons as we started living on property. Have
always had my questions answered and info sent."
• "To check on program compliance after building."
• "To ask about resources and advice on habitat."
• "Help for continueing my desire for complete compliance in any manner."
• "Advice."
• "Have not had the opportunity for a property visit due to my assignment
issues and timing, but have sent mapping of nesting sites, underground
habitat shelters and proposed stream/pond locations to the ODFW high
desert region.."
• "Review approved plan."
• "Regarding our fence configuration to accommodate elk passage. Also,
advice on Canada geese nesting boxes."
• "Talked to Larry about weeds."
• "Various."
• "This year. Want advice on fire protection. Mainly cutting dead branches
that touch the grasses."
5. Has your property been inspected by ODFW staff for compliance with your
ODFW approved WHCMP plan?
Yes (58) No (5)
• "I don't know? But I believe I am in compliance."
• "There were a few added suggestions done quite reasonably during the visits
as well as some in the original (plan) deemed unnecessary. We have complied
with all changes suggested. The inspector was quite pleasant and helpful."
• "I have no idea?"
• "I believe so."
4
6. What has been your experience working with ODFW staff?
(Please check all that apply)
Helpful with WHCMP enrollment (54)
Knowledgeable about fish, wildlife and habitat management (57)
Knowledgeable about WHCMP participation requirements (54)
Available when asked for information or to make a property visit (53)
Not available when needed
Difficult to work with, inflexible (2)
Unreasonable expectations for WHCMP participation (1)
Disrespectful, lack of consideration for the landowner
Other (please be specific)
• "Not unreasonable — but a bit "back against the wall" feeling from my
perspective. I think do to other participants not complying with the program,
so those of us that do, feel the unneeded pressure."
• "I feel ODFW does an outstanding job."
• "Spent entire afternoon with us on property to make recommendations."
• "Great!"
• "Staff guided us with our plan and provided opinions on bettering land
management at the site."
• "All my interactions with ODFW have been very positive & informative."
• "They have been extremely helpful & knowledgeable!"
• "We found Larry Pecenka's inspection visit very helpful & inspiring. (Letter
from 8/18/08 attached.)"
• "NOT. (Called to explain, qualify. Larry was out, talked to Steven George.) I
like Larry and Steven lots. Good guys."
• "Exceptionably knowledgeable about fish, wildlife and habitat
management."
• "Very Helpful. Very Knowledgeable. Very Available. Our rep is very helpful
and encouraging."
• "Larry Pecenca has been very helpful & polite and a pleasure to work with.
He is extremely knowledgeable & we've learned a lot from him."
• "The staff is extremely well informed and very helpful."
• "Very knowledgeable."
• "Larry Pacenka has been excellent to work with."
• "Staff has been very knowledgeable & helpful."
• "At the time we did not know this help was available. We paid a biologist to
help with our plan (reference to Helpful with WHCMP enrollment). Always
helpful. We continue to learn and value the opportunities to do so with
knowledgeable staff and also to discuss our specific challenges."
• "Was very helpful in correcting small compliance situation."
• "ODFW has always answered questions and Larry has taken the time to
send various publications to assist with habitat education."
• "During inspection Larry was very helpful identifying native species and
ideas to better manage the area."
• "Larry id great! Relly an expert in his field & we appreciate his input & help
whenever we need it."
5
7. Do you think WHCMP participants should be held accountable to comply with
their agreed to plans, allowing modifications to the plan only after having
discussed a proposed change and receiving ODFW approval prior to the change
of property management?
Yes (60) _ No (1) Please explain:
• "Only yes if approval process is a two way discussion and there are time
limits to the process."
• "Although minor changes that do not affect wildlife should not need
approval."
• "As long as ODFW allows me to change something that is OK with County
codes!"
• "It is a privilege to be accepted, and have put substantial effort to apply and
comply with plan. We hold land stewardship to be important now and in the
future."
• "That's a part of the deal."
• "I think it's best to consult with the experts before changing aspects of the
plan, which may not be effective habitat enhancements."
• "It's a contract like any other contract or agreement — It's the law."
• "It is not hard to comply as this is why we agreed to the terms."
• "I do think that some modifications could be made under certain instances if
required."
• "Any changes should be reasonable and mutually agreed upon. Sometimes
part of the plan may seem feasible initially then changes beyond landowner's
control may require a change to the plan and reassessing a portion of the
plan may call for changes. Ultimately the goal should always be to better
wildlife habitat."
• "This is a partnership."
• "Because the property owner has committed to a specific plan that benefits
wildlife."
• "A deal is a deal - work within the agreement."
• "X — Maybe, X — Depends. I think this is a bad question. (Leading, without
educating — See typical voters pamphlet regarding gathering "Informed
Votes".)"
• "It's very hard to control noxious weeds & to grow bitterbrush."
• "To help keep a good environment for wildlife."
• "But with some flexibility and understanding of individual circumstances."
• "We get the benefits therefore we comply — it's a win-win."
• "It is only fair to those of us who are in compliance & do the work required
that those who don't are held accountable. And it's only fair to the ODFW &
the County."
• "That was the agreement."
• "Definitely!"
• "X Maybe. Maybe depending on individual circumstances."
• "We feel that WHCMP has been very knowledgeable to advise us."
• "Any modifications need to be carried out with someone who knows about
flora & fauna — habitat requirements, etc."
• "Absolutely!"
6
• "We are in the program to protect wildlife habitat that is constantly being
lost to development. Any changes to the property should be evaluated for
wildlife impact."
• "The plan is there for a reason."
• "Those who really care about a wildlife habitat will do the work. Others who
only care about the tax break & do nothing should be out."
• "ODFW has been very reasonable and helpful in helping us to fmd solutions
or modify parts of our plan that proved difficult for us."
• "I believe that sticking to the original plan is important as not to veer away
from what a professional wildlife biologist management plan details.. I also
feel that as a property develops communication with the WHCMP is also
important to adjust or add to the possibility of enhancing habitat for
conservation. However, only with ODFW consent."
• "This is an excellent way to enhance wildlife habitat. Anyone that does it for
tax purposes and does not comply needs to do it right or else pay -up."
• "This is the agreement of the program & we're happy to get expert advice."
8. If your property management has been found to be in "Non -Compliance" with
your ODFW approved WHCMP plan, what was your experience in working
with ODFW staff through the process for coming back into compliance?
(Please check all that apply)
I have not been in Non -Compliance with my WHCMP plan (43)
_ ODFW staff was courteous and helpful (14)
ODFW staff was willing to work with me to correct the situation (11)
ODFW provided in writing the problem(s) of Non -Compliance (9)
ODFW staff provided clear expectations to correct the situation (11)
ODFW staff was not very understanding of the situation
ODFW staff expects too much from the landowner (1)
ODFW should not have the right to tell the landowner what to do (1)
Other (please be specific)
• "If you agree to the plan than you should be held to what your plan was."
• "Found in compliance but was advised to continue removal of junipers 8'
and under. Larry was veru helpful & provided excellent information &
pamphlets!"
• "Extremely understanding direction."
• "ODFW is an excellent balance of enforcer and teacher for those who truly
wish to provide for our wildlife. Excellent information provided."
• "I would hope that before Non -Compliance went into effect that the
WHCMP would work through the issues and understand circumstances.
After all the loss would hurt the wildlife habitat environment and efforts
need to be made to steer it back on tract. If not the wildlife ODFW and the
landowner all lose."
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9. Would you recommend the WHCMP to other eligible property owners?
Yes (62) No (1) Please explain:
• "Preserving habitat for native species & for future generations."
• "This is a great program that allows wildlife to remain close to urban areas."
• "It is a great program. It helps the wildlife and gives us tax relief."
• "We have recommended WHCMP to several people in the Sisters/Cloverdale
area."
• "Win -Win for wildlife and the tax payer."
• "Have recommended."
• "Incentive programs work well to accomplish land management goals and
free up funds for landowners to spend on enhancement projects."
• "ODFW has very helpful with suggestions & ideas for me to better improve
wildlife habitat."
• "Since most of the land is non-productive for crops, at least I get great
pleasure and satisfaction watching the ducks and geese come into the pond,
the red -tails diving on gophers, rock chucks, badgers, deer, etc. I have 5
hours of video with over a hundred different verities."
• "It is good for owners & wildlife who were here first."
• "It is good for wildlife & land preservation."
• "Definitely and have. These programs benefit Central Oregon. The state
people/tourists come here for the scenery & wildlife — not to view
development. This is what makes Central Oregon special and increases
tourism $$."
• "Yes, but the plan implementation can be expensive."
• "This is a very rewarding experience."
• "It's important to sustain & enhance the wildlife habitat conservation in
Central Oregon to slow the urban growth."
• "Saves land for wildlife."
• "I understand the program has been closed, in some cases arbitrarily as in
the case of irrigated land."
• "We need to help nature where we have moved into their home land of many
years."
• "Great personal pride and benefit."
• "Only those who we feel would choose to be part of it with wildlife as the
main reason, not just for the tax benefit."
• "It is a good idea and. I have made such recommendation."
• "Only if sincerely interested in habitat."
• "If it was the right property."
• "I have recommended to others."
• "Have got two of my neighbors to join in."
• "It gives others the opportunity to have a home and protect wildlife."
• "You bet. Our experience w/ODFW staff has been wonderful. We know
more about the plants and animals on our property. The tax relief is great
too."
• "Promotes consideration for/of the environment."
• "Absolutely, it's an effective approach to protecting wildlife habitat."
• "The program benefits wildlife, & it helps people w/EFU land that is really
not practical for actual farm use."
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• "We need more habitat to counter the development."
• "It is an excellent opportunity to enhance their property in harmony with
nature, improve Central Oregon as it grows in human population, and have
the pleasure of watching wildlife and its signs."
• "Yes, As long as they follow the ODFW criteria. The more land we can
occupy for habitat and keeping this area in its natural state we would all
benefit from it."
• "I was one of the first to do it in my area. Several property owners are now
participating."
• "Have recommended & hope others join."
10. Additional comments?
• "To keep the High Desert natural & beautiful — lets not develop into another
Palm Springs/Palm Desert."
• "I have stopped all hunting on my property. Now hawks, owls and other
types of birds and animals are back and doing well. I also have attacked the
weed problem and trash that the County allowed to accumulate prior to me
purchasing my property."
• "It has really helped the quail, doves, songbirds. Not having pets (dogs/cats)
or any other livestock on this 20 ac."
• "As participants in WHCMP, our enjoyment of our property has been
enhanced. We have increased our exposure to and awareness of the wildlife,
its interaction with the environment, and our commitments to our land now
and in the future. We hope the program will continue and grew with other
like minded property owners."
• "Great program! Win -Win for property owners & wildlife."
• "Keep the program — it helps us a lot, and the wildlife too!"
• "I feel, we as a community have taken away from wildlife. So I feel good
about giving back to wildlife!"
• "Compliance is easy, as we have adapted to the deer & other critters needs.
To see how unaffected they are by our presence, check out the traces they
leave. Also we love to watch them."
• "This plan enables us to reach our goal of increasing native plants & wildlife
on our property. ODFW has been very helpful to us."
• "As a result of WHCMP — my deer now have increased substantially and
new species of birds, mammals etc. continue to show up & are nesting here.
Washington and other states implemented plans before Oregon and I was
glad to see Oregon become a progressive state too! More folks are viewing
wildlife & hunting has continued to drop — setting up plans like this is called
progress."
• "You are welcome to show our project to county officials, if helpful."
• "We are glad we participated. We enjoy the program & appreciate all the
help we have been given along the way."
• "The wife and I love the rural setting and enjoy all the wildlife and fish (some
are up to 7 lbs. now)."
• "We look forward to continue working with ODFW in the future."
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• "MANY. Looks like untrained data collection. I think you should have gotten
some landowner input on the questionnaire. Always available to help."
• "I think WHCMP enrolled clients should submit an annual report of the
activities they have implemented that year to benefit wildlife and a list of
names and numbers of species observed — not that this data would benefit
ODFW, but to make enrollee more conscious of program."
• "I am slowly getting the bitterbrush to grow."
• "This is a joint project (partially fmancial) of the State and Property
"Owner"."
• "Great program. Keeps my 1/3 mile river frontage pristine."
• "The program is extremely important to Oregon and especially Central
Oregon."
• "Can't answer 6 thru 9 since I don't understand the program."
• Copy of letter from 4/8/02 attached thanking Steven George for his prompt
approval of the plan, and the landowner's ability to protect their 40 acres as
a permanent wildlife park.
• "3/4 more bluebirds since boxes & neighbors joined in, deer populations up,
fire issues covered, thinning great."
• "The program requires a commitment of both time and money. Only those
genuinely concerned for wildlife and their habitat should be involved and
their plan not compromised — it is a contract!! (Additional attached
comments) It's a contract! The clients write their own plans and then ask
ODFW for approval, not the other way around. We feel offended that any
landowner would take advantage of this program for a tax benefit rather
than for management, protection, restoration and enhancement of wildlife
habitat. There are many, many opportunities to get back into compliance —
almost too many chances to correct the situation. We take our commitment
very, very seriously!"
• "It's an excellent program, with a real "win-win" for the environment & the
property owner. We've seen a noticeable difference in wildlife. I hope you'll
continue the program, & expand it."
• "We worry about what will happen when our health prevents us from using
a chainsaw on junipers and climbing trees!"
• "My only contact has been with Larry Pecenka."
• "I'd like to see it be a property tax credit as opposed to a deferral."
• "This program provides us all with expert advice & knowledge to enhance,
restore & preserve our wild & beautiful properties for generations to come.
It benefits us & all the wildlife. More states should adopt this program. It
truly encourages good stewardship on our lands."
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Not required but useful: Provided name info (55) No name info (9)
Name:
Mailing address:
Phone number:
Condition of landowner compliance history of returned questionnaires:
Compliant Landowners: (38)
Non -Compliant Landowners (Now back into compliance): (11)
Unknown (No name with questionnaire or property not yet inspected): (15)
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