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Deschutes County

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Forestry and Natural Resources

Out there for Oregon’s forests. Here for Oregonians.

Forests and the diverse natural resources associated with them are an important part of Central Oregon’s heritage, economy, and way of life.

Our job is to utilize the latest research and innovations from Oregon State University and other institutions to provide science-based education and expertise to communities, landowners and natural resources professionals regarding forest management and fire. Whether you are interested in making your property safe from wildfire, learning how to better manage your land, growing your forest-based business, or are an aspiring naturalist, we are here to point you in the right direction.

We also serve on local community-based organizations and groups using independent and scientific expertise and facilitation skills to help solve complicated issues surrounding the management of our natural resources.

See you in the Woods!

Ariel Cowan, Central Region Fire Specialist

Jenna Deibel, Central Oregon Extension Forestry Agent

OSU Extension is a trusted partner for all Oregonians, providing knowledge, innovation, and expertise to help communities, economies, and ecosystems thrive.

Join our email list

The Future of Forests is a quarterly email newsletter for folks interested in learning the latest in fire and forestry topics and events. You'll learn about upcoming Home Wildfire Protection workshops, webinars, grant funding opportunities and more from your Central Oregon specialists, Ariel Cowan and Jenna Deibel.

If you would like to receive information about forestry, fire and natural resources, please subscribe to our mailing list. You may also call our local office or email us if you would like to connect directly.

Sign up today!

Stay on Top of News and Events

Sign up for our local newsletter to receive information on upcoming events, cost share opportunities, and other useful information. You can also subscribe to our TreeTopics blog!

Life on the Dry Side Forestry Magazine

Serving land managers and owners east of the Cascades.

Newsletter

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Oregon Naturalist

Participate in science-based learning experiences that help you appreciate Oregon's diverse forest ecosystems and make informed decisions regarding forest policy and management. For example, our Master Naturalist Program offers opportunities to learn about the natural history of plants, animals, habitats, geology, culture, as well as the most relevant topics in sustainable natural resource management.

Explore Oregon’s forests with us.

Photo: Jordan Benner (Cropped from original)

Protect What You Care About

The Fire Program and the Citizen Fire Academy, Ties to the Land succession planning, and forest health offerings are all tailored to help you keep your property safe from wildfire or insect and disease outbreaks, and to build a legacy for future generations.

Fire Program

The Fire Program uses outreach, education, and engagement to foster fire-adapted communities and resilient landscapes to wildfire. Six wildland fire specialists help seek regionally relevant solutions through place-based partnerships.

Program

Find Your People

Our community-based groups, such as the Women Owning Woodlands Network and Master Woodland Manager Program, get together to learn with – and from – other landowners who value Oregon’s forests and communities.

Women Owning Woodlands Network

The Women Owning Woodlands Network is a diverse, enthusiastic group of women who come together to learn about forest management, share their forestry and natural resources experiences, and exchange personal knowledge in a unique peer-to-peer learning environment.

Program

Master Woodland Manager

The Master Woodland Manager training is a master's level course for landowners who are interested in an intensive forest management training and sharing the knowledge gained through this training with people in their local communities. Graduates of the program have been serving Oregon for 40 years.

Program

Browse related Extension resources

Meet our experts

Ariel Cowan
Regional Fire Specialist, Central Region
Jenna Deibel
Forestry & Natural Resources Extension Forester

Contact me with questions about forestry and natural resources in central Oregon.

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