A 30-foot thick wall of Himalayan blackberries once choked a section of Fernhollow Farm. The monstrous stand of an invasive species hindered access to 15 acres of pasture and a nearby stream. Oregon Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program veterans Jim and Bobbi Smith knew that CREP was a perfect fit to upgrade this newly acquired part of their property.

With funds from CREP and the Coos Watershed Association, the Smiths removed the encroaching blackberry tide and created a more suitable riparian buffer. The buffer's diverse plant species are boosting water quality and habitat for Coho salmon and other wildlife. The Smiths also replaced damaged culverts that endangered cattle and impeded fish passage. The Smiths' property is once again a productive pasture, exemplifying the Oregon CREP's goal of helping farmers make the best use of their land while improving critical fish habitat.

Replacing an invasive blackberry stand at the right of the stream with a diverse riparian buffer improves habitat for Coho salmon.

Plant diversity of planned CREP riparian buffer will improve water quality and habitat for Coho salmon and other wildlife.

Using CREP benefits and matching funds from Coos Watershed Association, landowners cleared Himalayan blackberry and improved access to both pasture and stream.

Landowners Jim and Bobbi Smith cleared Himalayan blackberry that had blocked access to 15 acres of pasture and stream.

CREP enabled landowners to replace old stream crossings that endangered livestock and were impassible for fish.

CREP tree planting is interspersed with existing vegetation along Rogers Creek.

Extensive tree planting will improve water quality and temperature for Coho salmon habitat.