The Clackamas Soil and Water Conservation District’s annual report for fiscal year 2022-2023 is now available. Fiscal year 2022-2023 covers the period from July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023.
(Oregon Revised Statute 568.580 requires soil and water conservation districts to produce an annual report: “Each year after the creation of the first board of directors at a time fixed by resolution of the board, the board, by giving due notice, shall call an annual meeting of the landowners in the district and present an annual report and audit.”)
Message from the District Manager
The landscape for conservation has changed. Fewer undeveloped acres, new invasive species, and significant climate events are more common. While not everyone agrees on the causes or solutions, one thing is certain, “Change” is the theme in all our programmatic work. This annual report reflects change.
The completion of a five-year strategic plan identifies new District priorities so we may rise to the challenge of combating new invasive species; restructuring our programs to address post-wildfire events; and providing improved and updated resources/services to the communities we serve. Also this year, we said farewell to a seasoned conservationist but celebrated future conservation leaders joining our ranks.
Navigating change and keeping your sanity is a challenge. I found great benefit from the formation of a District Manager “support group”. Three years ago, when I came to Clackamas, I connected with the new District Manager at East Multnomah SWCD. We shared challenges, brainstormed solutions, and shared resources. The cohort of two has grown to eight SWCD managers in the Willamette Basin. We meet quarterly to discuss and collaborate. This support helps us know we are not alone in navigating changing times.
Thank you,
Christopher Lapp
