At Ashland Food Co-op, we are dedicated to fostering a vibrant and sustainable community. Each month, our Change for Good program partners with a local organization to support their mission and amplify their impact. For August, we are thrilled to announce our partnership with the Rogue River Watershed Council (RRWC).

Who is the Rogue River Watershed Council?

The Rogue River Watershed Council is committed to enhancing the resilience of the Rogue River watersheds through ecological restoration and community engagement. Their mission is to protect and restore the natural ecosystems of the Rogue River, ensuring that both the environment and local communities can thrive amidst the challenges of an ever-changing world.

Current and Upcoming Projects

RRWC is actively involved in several exciting projects aimed at improving water quality, restoring habitats, and ensuring sustainable resource management. Here are a few key initiatives:

Bear Creek River Mile 19 Active construction is underway along the Greenway between Lynn Newbry Park and Wranglers Arena in Talent. This project, which continues until mid-September, focuses on protecting infrastructure, safeguarding drinking water, and restoring fish and wildlife habitats. To learn more about this project, including radio interviews, videos, and greenway accessibility notices, visit the RRWC website.

Little Butte Creek River Mile 16.7 RRWC is collaborating with a private landowner to enhance water quality, improve fish passage, and restore fish and wildlife habitats. Key actions include the placement of large wood structures, recovery of the native riparian forest, and upgrades to irrigation infrastructure. A significant instream action this summer involves installing an irrigation system that eliminates the need for push-up dams, which have historically impeded fish passage and disrupted Chinook Salmon spawning.

Rogue Drinking Water Partnership In addition to their restoration projects, RRWC is a key partner in the Rogue Drinking Water Partnership, an initiative that brings together local drinking water providers and organizations to protect drinking and source water. This past May, during National Drinking Water Week, RRWC partnered with local coffee shops to distribute coffee sleeves highlighting the partnership’s work, raising awareness about the importance of protecting our water resources.

How You Can Support RRWC

As part of our Change for Good program, every time you shop at Ashland Food Co-op this August, you have the opportunity to round up your purchase to the nearest dollar, with the extra amount going directly to support RRWC’s vital work. Your contributions will help fund their ongoing and future projects, ensuring the health and sustainability of the Rogue River watersheds for generations to come.

To learn more about the Rogue River Watershed Council, their projects, and how you can get involved, visit their website.

Together, we can make a positive impact on our environment and community. Thank you for supporting Ashland Food Co-op and our Change for Good partner, Rogue River Watershed Council!