Willow Harvest + Fishing at Green Island!

Location Info

Green Island is located just outside of Coburg, Oregon, off Green Island Rd. Project location details and parking instructions will be shared before the event. You can use Google Maps to locate the property and reach the main gate. Please help us be good neighbors by observing a 5-10 MPH speed limit between the pavement and the beginning of the Green Island property at the green gate.

Region: Willamette Valley

Watershed: McKenzie

Join us for a day of Willow Harvest at Green Island to support replanting efforts upriver in the newly restored Quartz Creek! Quartz Creek, located near Blue River, Oregon, is a key tributary of the McKenzie River, benefiting native species like salmon, trout, lamprey, beavers, and more.

The willow processed at this work party will go upriver for a community Willow Planting Party at Quartz Creek the following day. Willow will root right out of the stem when put into the ground. One long branch can be cut into several pieces, and each piece will sprout, so long as it is planted right side up. We hope to have at least 1,500 stems to plant, and we could use many hands to help make this possible! 

Willow has a strong root system that helps filter water, stabilize banks, and control erosion while providing shade and thicket to support nesting habitat and shelter for fish and wildlife. It is also an important food source for native pollinators, hummingbirds, and beavers. 

The Basics

We will harvest willow in the morning and welcome people to stay to fish in the afternoon along the Willamette River or the island’s restored gravel pond to help remove non-native species such as largemouth bass and bluegill. Work will take place from 9:00am-12:00pm, with gates remaining open to fish until 4:00pm.

This work party is open to anyone interested in supporting fish and wildlife habitat restoration! You can expect to meet members of our local fishing community at this event, but you do not have to fish to join.

Porta-potties and drinking water are available on site. Snacks and beverages will be provided! Please bring a lunch that meets your dietary needs if you plan to stay and fish. 

Safety and Comfort

McKenzie River Trust will provide tools and work gloves for the project. You are welcome to bring your own gloves if you like. We'll be working out in the elements, so please bring:

• Closed-toe shoes or boots    
• Waterproof layers to stay comfortable in a variety of temperatures
• Sturdy clothing for comfort and safety when working outdoors
• Any allergy or other medication you may need (ex, pollen, bees, etc.) 
• Water bottle and snacks that meet your dietary needs
• Fishing gear and lunch if you plan to stay and fish

What Will We Be Doing

We will be clipping long willow stems and branches into shorter pieces. This activity can be done standing or seated. You don't need experience; tools, gloves, chairs, and guidance will be provided. Work will take place in an open field. Some project pieces include bending, lifting, and walking on uneven ground. 

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