was developed to help small STEPS FOR SMALL ACREAGE, RURAL LIVING IN OREGON 

acreage landowners—like you—evaluate conditions and identify options that are right 

for you, your family and your land. 

You may own 5 or 50 acres. You may keep horses or cattle, grow a specialty crop, manage 

wooded areas for timber or just want to protect the natural beauty and functions of your 

rural property. Whichever best describes your situation, the STEPS packet can help you 

identify strategies to meet your goals and improve the long-term health and sustainability 

of your land. Inside, you will find information and resources to help you:

• Conserve natural resources Enhance your quality of life. •

• Protect water quality. Care for the land. •

• Provide wildlife habitat. Control weeds. •

 • ...And more! Improve your property’s •

 scenic value.

Tools and Resources

 to Design a Customized Land 

Management Strategy for 

Your Small Acreage Property

Version 3 / 2019
Getting Started

1 Introduction to the STEPS Workbook

3 Set Your Land Management Goals 

5 Map Your Property

7 Inventory Your Resources

Completing the Worksheets

9 Completing Your STEPs Worksheets

11 Forest Assessment

21 Grazing Assessment

29 Irrigation Assessment

37 Manure Assessment

45 Soil Assessment

53 Stream Assessment

63 Weed Assessment

71 Wildlife Assessment

79 Glossary

87 Contacts and Acronyms

92 Acknowledgements
In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) civil 

rights regulations and policies, the USDA, its Agencies, offices, and employees, and institutions 

participating in or administering USDA programs are prohibited from discriminating based on race, 

color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity (including gender expression), sexual orientation, 

disability, age, marital status, family/parental status, income derived from a public assistance 

program, political beliefs, or reprisal or retaliation for prior civil rights activity, in any program 

or activity conducted or funded by USDA (not all bases apply to all programs). Remedies and 

complaint filing deadlines vary by program or incident.

Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communication for program information 

(e.g., Braille, large print, audiotape, American Sign Language, etc.) should contact the responsible 

Agency or USDA's TARGET Center at (202) 720-2600 (voice and TTY) or contact USDA through 

the Federal Relay Service at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program information may be made 

available in languages other than English.

To file a program discrimination complaint, complete the USDA Program Discrimination Complaint 

Form, AD-3027, found online at How to File a Program Discrimination Complaint (www.ascr.usda.

gov/filing-program-discrimination-complaint-usda-customer) and at any USDA office or write 

a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the letter all of the information requested in the form. To 

request a copy of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed form or letter to 

USDA by: (1) mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, 

1400 Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; (2) fax: (202) 690-7442; or (3) 

email: program.intake@usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.
11

STEP 1: Complete the Land Management Goals Worksheet

This worksheet was developed to help focus your efforts. Each goal includes 

common management considerations that you may need to address. Space is 

provided to add additional items specific to your 

unique production.

STEP 2: Develop a Baseline Map

Use the worksheet provided to develop a map of your property to aid in 

envisioning the results of your management plan.

STEP 3: Inventory your Resources

This will provide the foundation information for your land to use as a reference as 

you work through the other worksheets.

STEP 4: Complete the STEP Worksheets for Your Operation

Each worksheet contains a set of questions to help you assess conditions and 

evaluate how your management decisions affect natural resources. Select and 

then complete the set of worksheets relevant to your acreage.

STEP 5: Identify the Options and Actions Right for You

On each worksheet, you will find management options, information resources, and 

contact information. You may find you can make improvements on your own, or 

you may decide to obtain professional assistance for more intensive treatments, 

such as structural or engineered practices. Whatever options you choose, each 

section of the STEPs packet will help you find more information and assistance.

STEPS FOR SMALL ACREAGE, RURAL LIVING ON SMALL ACREAGES IN OREGON

Is a comprehensive tool designed to help small acreage landowners evaluate the condition of their 

property and identify methods for managing and enhancing the land. The following steps will help you 

navigate this workbook to develop an effective land management plan. 

 

INTRODUCTION

to the STEPS Workbook
2
3

VISION FOR THE LAND IN 5-10 YEARS

Example: The water in our stream is clean and provides habitat for native fish. Blackberries and weeds 

have been eliminated and/or controlled on our property. We have established a productive 

pumpkin patch in the northeast field. We are able to keep and graze four horses while 

protecting the condition of our pastures and streams. 

Goals Outcomes

q

Improve or maintain 

the aesthetic beauty 

of the property and 

quality of life

• Selected land uses are carried out in a sustainable manner that helps 

maintain a desirable quality of life 

• Plant and animal pests are kept in check

• Healthy plant communities and a scenic landscape are maintained

• Excess water from heavy rains does not damage structures, roads, 

streambanks, livestock or crops; runoff does not convey contaminants 

to ground and surface waters

q

Keep healthy horses, 

cattle or other livestock 

on the property

• Animals are healthy with proper diet and conditions

• Animals have plenty of high-quality forage to graze

• Streams are protected from animal waste and trampled streambanks

• Manure is properly handled and does not present a hazard to people, 

water bodies or animals

• Livestock odors are managed appropriately for the area 

The worksheets in this packet will help you identify strategies to maintain and improve the natural resources 

on your property. To begin, develop a vision of how you want your land to look in the coming years. Whether 

you want to improve conditions or maintain the land as it is, establishing a plan will help you make good 

decisions both now and in the future. This is the first step to a successful land management strategy that is 

right for you, your family and your property. 

Instructions: First, record your vision for the land in the coming years. Include what you want the property 

to look like and how you plan to use the land. Then, identify the specific land management goals that relate 

to your overall vision. For goals you have checked, identify the relevant outcomes for your acreage from the 

corresponding list or add your own in the space provided. 

Goals/Outcomes Worksheet continued →

SET LAND

management goals
4

Vision for the Land continued

Goals Outcomes

q

Maintain healthy soil 

to support plants and 

animals, as well as 

natural water and 

nutrient cycles

• The soil is fertile and contains a healthy mix of organic matter to 

support plant growth

• Healthy plant communities provide cover at the appropriate times 

of year

• Soil erosion is controlled

• Animals are rotated among pastures to prevent heavy traffic and 

overuse causing soil compaction and poor water infiltration

q

Protect the quality 

and quantity of water 

in local streams, 

groundwater sources,

and other water bodies

• Streambanks are protected from erosion with thick, diverse streamside 

vegetation

• Fertilizer and pesticide applications are applied properly to keep 

chemicals out of water bodies

• Landowners with an irrigation right use only the water needed at the 

appropriate time to optimize plant health and conserve stream water

• Irrigation systems are maintained and updated for maximum efficiency

• Natural floodplains, wetlands and unpaved natural areas are utilized to 

recharge groundwater supplies and act as buffers for water runoff

q Provide healthy habitats 

for native wildlife

• Natural cover and nesting habitat for desired wildlife species are 

provided by a variety of plants

• Food and water sources are available year-round

• Fish have plenty of clean, cool water to support migration, spawning 

and rearing

• Fish screens protect aquatic species from irrigation intakes

• Wildlife is not threatened by human activity, roadways or domestic pets

q Other

Congratulations! You have completed the first step in developing a customized land management 

strategy. As you work through the following STEPs Worksheets, keep these goals and outcomes in mind and

look for activities that will help you address these priorities. 

SET LAND

MANAGEMENT GOALS
5

Site: Breezy Hills Farm Date: Sept. 2018

Pasture 1

Ditches

Pasture 2

Hay Field 1

Pumpkin

Patch

Hay Field 2 Pond

Forest

Property Boundary

MAP

your property

The next step in a customized land management strategy is to inventory the features of your 

property on a land use map. The example below illustrates the types of features to include when 

developing a map of your property. The base image of the schematic is from Web Soil Survey, 

a free online natural resource information system. Web Soil Survey is available for public use at: 

http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov. 

To create your own map, download a map image from the Web Soil Survey or any other map source. 

Various websites provide resources to generate and print maps for free. If you prefer, you may create 

your own schematic by hand. A template is provided on the following page.

Next, mark the fields, structures, land forms, water bodies, problem areas, and other notable uses 

and features, including historic and/or archaeological sites. If you draw your own map, sketch the 

property’s main features on the following page. The map you create will serve as your reference point 

for planning future activities, such as the placement of fences or trees. Keep the map as a record of 

your baseline or starting point. As you implement changes, be sure to update your property map.

Using Web Soil Survey

You can do much more than generate a map with Web Soil Survey. Go to the Suitabilities and Limitations 

for Use section under the Soil Data Explorer tab. The information available here includes:

Land Classification: Maps and reports for Farmland Classification to identify areas of prime farmland or 

Capability Class (a ranking of soil suitability for cropland). 

Vegetative Productivity: Maps and reports of expected crop yields for a variety of crops, including hay and 

pasture.

Building Site Development: Maps and reports with information on soil limitations for home sites.

Soil Properties and Qualities: Information on depth to seasonal high water tables as well as flooding and 

ponding frequency.
6

 Legend: Common symbols to use for hand-drawn maps Site: Date:

Pasture

Pond

Fence Stream

Property Boundry

Well

Manure

Storage

Forest

Cropland Slope

# Field Number

Instructions: Print and attach your property map here, or create your own schematic using the 

template provided below. As you make improvements to your property, be sure to attach updated 

maps or add features to your original image.

MAP YOUR

PROPERTY
7

Land Characteristics: Map indicates a clay surface layer with 8-15% slopes and a slow 

intake rate for water

Opportunities:

Natural Resource 

Maintenance & Others

Correct Uneven Grazing; Improve poor grass stands, decreasing 

invasive species and weeds; Muddy areas on south side EXAMPLE

 Site: Breezy Farms Date: October 2018

Field: Pasture # 1 Acres: 5 acres Land Use: Pasture

Now that you have mapped your property, use the worksheet on the following page to capture 

more detailed information about each section of your property, including the land use, size, 

soils, plants, problems, and general observations about current conditions. An example of a 

completed worksheet based on the sample property mapped in the previous section is provided 

below. 

Use the directions below to complete the following worksheet:

Field: List each section of your property.

Acres: List the approximate size of each section of your property.

Land Use: List the major land use for each section of your property (i.e. hay, pasture, 

crops, wetland).

Land 

Characteristics:

Describe the natural resources present on your land. Be sure to include 

soil information. Look up soil types using the Web Soil Survey website: 

http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov. Information is also available on 

soil suitability, limitations, properties, and reports for your area. For further 

information, consult the Web Soil Survey home page, or contact your 

local USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) or Soil and 

Water Conservation District (SWCD) office. 

Opportunities: Record any opportunities to make improvements. Make note of all natural 

resource concerns, seasonal problems, eyesores, maintenance hassles or 

production issues. 

Resource Worksheet continued →

INVENTORY

your resources
8

Land Characteristics:

Opportunities:

Natural Resource 

Maintenance & Others

Field: Acres: Land Use

Land Characteristics:

Opportunities:

Natural Resource 

Maintenance & Others

Field: Acres: Land Use

Land Characteristics:

Opportunities:

Natural Resource 

Maintenance & Others

Field: Acres: Land Use

Land Characteristics:

Opportunities:

Natural Resource 

Maintenance & Others

 Site: Date:

Field: Acres: Land Use: 

INVENTORY YOUR

RESOURCES
9

Now that you have established your land management goals and inventoried your property, you 

are ready to complete the steps worksheets. 

As you begin going through the worksheets and answering the questions provided, you will 

begin to assess conditions on your land and learn about a number of management options. 

Keep in mind that the alternatives provided are general in nature. The distinct features of your 

land — and the specific uses and goals you have for it — make each section unique.

As you begin to identify actions that may be appropriate, consider whether you can make 

improvements on your own. Many options will require specific considerations pertaining 

to the unique geography, hydrology, plants, wildlife, and other features and conditions on 

your property. Some of these activities may require technical expertise. Sources for more 

information and assistance are listed in each section. 

In addition, you should know that regulations and permit requirements vary depending on 

location, land use, and other factors. As a landowner, it is important to learn about the 

regulations applicable in your area. As you move forward with your land management goals, 

remember that an abundance of information and assistance is available through natural 

resource agencies, organizations and businesses. 

The following worksheets are available to complete. Select the worksheets that best

fit your operation:

q FOREST ASSESSMENT

q GRAZING ASSESSMENT

q IRRIGATION ASSESSMENT

q MANURE ASSESSMENT

q SOIL ASSESSMENT

q STREAM ASSESSMENT

q WEED ASSESSMENT

q WILDLIFE ASSESSMENT

COMPLETING

your STEPS worksheets
10
11

With proper management, you can maintain healthy forestland on your property. Forests can 

be managed for a single use, such as timber production, or for multiple uses, such as wildlife 

habitat, recreation, livestock grazing and/or timber production. To help you manage your 

forestland, you need to decide which of these uses are important to you. You likely have a 

primary use planned that will guide your overall management and decision-making processes. 

If secondary and tertiary uses are also important to you, allow these to guide your decisions 

as well. This worksheet will help you ensure that the vegetation and ecosystems on your 

forestland function properly for the land uses you have identified. 

In a healthy forest, the larger overstory trees, smaller understory trees, and ground vegetation 

are all in good condition. The distribution of vegetation and the number of trees per acre will 

differ depending on where you property is located within the state. Soil type, precipitation, 

temperature, tree species and your land use objectives are also factors that affect the density 

and distribution of vegetation on your forestland. 

Instructions: Conduct a basic assessment of your forestland by answering the following 

questions. If you identify management needs and/or issue that may require 

professional assistance, refer to the last page of this assessment for a list of 

resources. 

STEP 1: Identify The Tree Species On Your Forestland

1. There are many references to help you identify tree species present in Oregon. Refer to the 

Common Trees of the Pacific Northwest page on the Oregon State University website at:

http://oregonstate.edu/trees.

Select all that are present:

q Douglas-fir q Western larch

q Ponderosa pine q Bigleaf maple

q Grand fir q Red alder

q Western hemlock q Oregon white oak

Others (list):

2. Your local natural resources contact may suggest additional sources of information for 

identifying tree species. List other tree identification sources and forestry websites below for 

future reference.

FOREST ASSESSMENT
12

STEP 2: Determine The Types Of Trees Your Soil Will Support

Refer to the Web Soil Survey (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov), described earlier in 

the Map Your Property section to complete the following worksheet. Please, note forest 

productivity data may not be available in Web Soil Survey for some properties due to the lack

 of forest site data during the initial survey. 

1. Describe the soils present on your property.

After you delineate your property in Web Soil Survey, click the “Soil Map” tab. On the left-hand side 

of the screen, you will see a list of the soils present on your land. Click on a soil name to view the 

description, which will provide information on the soil’s properties, qualities, and major land uses. 

2. Record the site index values for the trees found on each soil.

Next, click on the “Soil Data Explorer” tab. On the left-hand side of the screen, you will see a list of 

the soils reports available to you. Under “Vegetative Productivity,” select “Forest Productivity,” then 

click “View Soil Report.” Scroll down to the bottom right-hand side of the screen to view the site 

index values for relevant tree species. The site index value gives you the average height trees will 

attain at a given age (either 50 or 100 years) on a specific soil. Generally, a higher site index value 

means the soils can support more trees per acre. The value allows you to compare the growth 

potential for trees on different soils. The site index will also help you evaluate you current stand.

3. List the trees identified to manage for on your property.

On the same table with the site index values, you will see a column titled “Trees to Manage.” The 

species listed here are preferred for planting, seeding or natural regeneration on the respective soils.

4. Record any additional information. 

 

FOREST

ASSESSMENT
13

STEP 3: Evaluate The Health Of Your Trees

Record any indications of possible tree health problems by answering the questions below. 

For any YES answer, provide a description in the space provided. 

q No q Yes Dead Trees/Plant Matter: Are there dead or dying branches in the tree 

 canopy and/or discolored leaves or needles?

q No q Yes Evidence of Insect Attack: This may include signs of white or pink pitch 

 tubes on the bark, brown sawdust at the base of the tree, dead sections of a 

 tree canopy, and/or large amounts of green needles on the ground. 

q No q Yes Witches Brooms: Are there thick masses of dense foliage in the tree canopy?

q No q Yes Dead/Forked Treetops: Do trees have forked tops, dead tops with new 

 leaders (dominant upright stems) developing or dead tops with no new leader?

q No q Yes Weeds: Are there any native or non-native plants that are overcrowding or 

 dominating the plant community? 

FOREST

ASSESSMENT
14

If you answered “yes” to any of the health problems identified on the previous page, consider 

applying the following management options:

 Dead Trees/Plant Matter: qRemove dead trees 

 qDesignate areas for wildlife habitat

 q Other:

 

 Insect Attack: qCut infected trees 

 qCut trees adjacent to infected trees to prevent spread

 q Other:

 Witches Brooms: qPrune infected branches 

 qRemove infected trees and plant with more persistent stock

 q Other:

 Dead/Forked Treetops: qRemove deformed or injured trees 

 qMaintain trees for wildlife

 q Other:

 Weeds: qSpray or mow weeds

 qPlant trees and maintain planting

 q Other:

STEP 4: Research and Apply Management Options to Improve Tree Health

FOREST

ASSESSMENT
15

STEP 5: Complete The Forest Stand Inventory

1. Do you know the density of the forest stand (the number of trees per acre)?

q Yes q No

2. Do you know the average diameter of the trees on your forestland?

q Yes q No

If you answered “No” to either of the above questions, complete the following worksheet. 

Discuss your results with a professional forester in your area. The information you collect here 

will help you assess proper management practices.

q A. Establish a fixed plot size. A fixed plot can be any size, but should be large enough to be 

representative of the entire stand. Round plots are the easiest to lay out; the plot radius 

depends on the size of the plot.

 1. Determine a plot size and the corresponding radius measurement (e.g. 11.8 foot 

 radius for 1/100 acre, 16.6 foot radius for 1/50 acre or 20 foot radius for 1/35 acre).

 2. Consider using a 1/35 acre plot. The radius is 20 feet and is a manageable size. 

 3. Locate a representative plot within your forestland. Establish a plot center point and

 mark with a stake.

a. Affix a measuring tape (or string) to the stake and measure out 20 feet, or the length 

of your plot radius. Holding the measuring tape, walk around the circle maintaining 

the radial length from the center point. You will have to maneuver the tape around 

the trees when you count the trees in your plot.

b. Another way to layout a round plot is to make an "X" with the plot center being the 

center of the "X". Measure out 20 feet (or your radius) from the center in an "X" pattern to determine the circle's edge. Mark the edges with a stake or flagging; these 

are the arcs of the circle.

 

 Plot size:

 Example: 

q B. After establishing a plot, count the number of trees within the plotted area. 

Count only the trees that are greater than 4 feet in height. Number of Trees:

Example: 

q C. Compute the number of trees per acre. 

 Number of trees per acre:

inverse of the plot size * number of trees counted

Example: 

q D. Record the average tree diameter. Measure the diameter of all the trees that are taller 

than 4.5 feet and have a diameter of 3 inches or more in the established plot. Measure the 

diameter of the trees at 4.5 feet above the ground.

 Average Tree Diameter:

Number of Trees Diameter Average by totalling the diameters

1 5.0" 5.0 + 6.1 + 3.0 + 4.6 + 9.0 = 27.5

2 6.1" Divide by total trees

3 3.0" 27.5/ 5 = 5.54

4 4.6" Average Diameter = 5.54"

5 9.0"

1/100 acre plot, 11.8 inch radius

(100/1) * 5 = 500 trees per acre

5 trees

Calculate by taking the 

sum of all diameters 

measured divided by the 

number of trees measured.

EXAMPLE:

FOREST

ASSESSMENT
16

STEP 6: Implement Management Practices To Reduce Risk Of Wildfire

Is wildfire a source of concern on your property?

q No q Yes 

 If YES, consider the following management options:

qReduce brush quantity 

qThin overstocked stands

q Prune lower tree branches

qReduce tree material on the forest floor

q Establish permanent firebreaks

q Contact the Oregon Department of Forestry at least 15 days prior to 

beginning any forest management activities

STEP 7: Complete The Forestland Enhancement Worksheet On The Following Page

Complete each field of the accompanying Woodland Enhancement Worksheet. Use the 

guide below to complete each section.

Field: Indicate each section of your property

Deadline: Indicate a deadline for completing your goals. 

Goal: List goals for each section of your property

Action: Describe methods for achieving your goals. Include a list of the resources 

 and assistance you may need to achieve your goals

 Field: SW forest Deadline: June 2018

Goal: Restore plant diversity

Action: Plant trees including diverse understory species EXAMPLE

Forestland Enhancement Worksheet continued →

FOREST

ASSESSMENT
17

 Field: Deadline: 

 Field: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Field: Deadline: 

 Field: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Field: Deadline: 

 Field: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

FOREST

ASSESSMENT
18

TIP: 1 Improve Your Woodlands

Gather Additional Information and Assistance

 Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF): 

www.oregon.gov/ODF

 ODF Private Forests Program: 

www.oregon.gov/ODF/Working/Pages/default.aspx

 Oregon State University Extension Service: 

http://extensionweb.forestry.oregonstate.edu

 Know Your Forest

http://www.knowyourforest.orgh

 Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS): 

www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

 Maintain diverse tree ages.

 Thin tree stands periodically to prevent overcrowding.

 Design, construct and maintain roads to provide drainage, prevent erosion and 

reduce costs. Ensure roads are located far from stream edges.

 Control competing vegetation and protect seedlings from grazing until 

established.

 When using chemicals for control, obtain the necessary permits. Avoid spraying 

neighboring vegetation and surroundings. Be sure to select the correct 

chemical for the type of vegetation and follow all label directions. 

 Dispose of large amounts of slash (logging debris) to reduce the risk of fire. 

Pruning trees may also reduce fire hazards, while improving the stand. 

FOREST

ASSESSMENT
19

NOTES:

FORESTRY

ASSESSMENT
20
21

STEP 1: Complete The Following Grazing Assessment

With good management, your pasture can produce vigorous grass stands with sufficient forage 

for the type and number of livestock you keep. The amount and quality of forage will depend 

on how you manage your land for grazing. Livestock will graze less in areas containing plants 

not palatable as forage; areas too far from water and mineral supplements; or areas too large 

in size to encourage even use of the entire unit. With proper management, you can control 

how and where your animals graze, and as a result, improve both plant conditions and herd 

health. For example, many livestock owners fence large pastures into smaller units. Animals 

can then be rotated through the pastures on a planned schedule that gives forage time to rest 

and regrow vigorous stands. With rotational grazing, you also have the opportunity to inspect 

animals more frequently and are often able to detect health problems in the herd earlier. At 

the same time, the soil will benefit from less erosion and damage from heavily used areas. 

Controlling livestock movement also results in better distribution of manure as plant fertilizer 

and reduces the risk of water contamination from concentrated nutrients in runoff. 

1. On pastures and grazed lands, how many of the plants are grazed by livestock, as compared to 

plants that livestock do not touch?

q More than 80% You are managing for uniform grazing use and likely have a healthy 

mix of plants.

q 50% to 80% Grazing may be slightly improved with additional water points, smaller 

grazing units, and targeted placement of salt or mineral supplements.

q 20% to 50% Grazing would likely be improved by incorporating additional 

watering points, smaller grazing units, and/or targeted placement of 

salt or mineral supplements.

q Less than 20% Consider replanting with forage species that are more suited to your 

livestock. Also, consider adding additional water points, smaller 

grazing units, and/or targeted placement of salt or mineral 

supplements.

2. Do you have a problem with livestock eating or coming into contact with noxious plants, invasive or 

undesirable plants? Check all that apply.

q Noxious weeds Consider control measures as recommended by a licensed pesticide 

consultant. Change management practices to favor desired plants.

q Invasive plants Consider control measures as recommended by a licensed pesticide 

consultant. Change management practices to favor desired plants. 

q Undesirable plants Consider improving grazing uniformity. Replanting with more 

desirable species and adding additional watering points, smaller 

grazing units, and/or targeted placement of salt or mineral supplements may help. 

Grazing Assessment continued →

Instructions: The following questions will help you conduct a basic self-assessment of your 

grazing management. Answer the questions below to identify areas where you 

may be able to improve grazing with pasture management strategies. 

GRAZING ASSESSMENT
22

Grazing Assessment (cont.)

3. At the beginning of the grazing season, usually in April, how tall is the forage on your pasture?

q More than 8 inches If the forage is leafy, this is a good height to begin grazing. If stems 

are present in the spring, you may consider earlier management 

activities, such as clipping, haying or increasing grazing to leave 4-8 

inches of leafy materials at the end of the season.

q 4 — 8 inches Try to allow the forage to reach 8 inches in height before grazing.

q Less than 4 inches Consider allowing more time without grazing in the latter half of the 

growing season to encourage better regrowth of leaves and roots. 

This will improve the vigor of your grass stand in the spring. 

4. During the grazing season in spring and summer, how tall is the forage when you typically decide to 

move livestock to graze a different area? 

q More than 8 inches Consider extending the grazing time in the pasture, reducing the 

size of the pasture, grazing with more animals or use one or more 

pastures for hay to increase grazing intensity.

q 4 — 8 inches A height of 4 - 8 inches may be preferable when you remove livestock 

from the pasture. 

q Less than 4 inches Consider reducing the grazing time and/or animal numbers, 

enlarging the grazed area, or adding supplemental feed.

5. When grazing is finished at the end of the season, usually in October, how tall is the forage? 

q More than 8 inches Consider clipping, haying or increasing grazing earlier in the season 

to achieve an 8-inch forage height.

q 4 — 8 inches If forage is under 8 inches in height, consider ending grazing earlier to 

allow for regrowth. 

q Less than 4 inches Defer grazing in the latter half of the growing season to encourage 

plant regrowth.

6. Do you rotate livestock regularly between pastures or do they graze on a single pasture continuously?

q Continuous Consider dividing livestock into several groups and rotating them 

between pastures. You may need to subdivide existing pastures. 

Rotational grazing allows plants to re-establish leaf and root systems.

q Rotated Allow for 4 to 8 inches of plant height (mostly leaves) prior to 

grazing to improve forage quality and plant health. 

7. How would you describe the condition of your livestock?

q Underweight/ 

 unhealthy

Work with your veterinarian to determine the causes. If poor animal 

health is associated with grazing conditions, contact a professional for 

help.

q Healthy Maintain your grazing system and re-assess animal health if changes 

occur. 

GRAZING

ASSESSMENT
23

STEP 3: Complete the Grazing Enhancement Worksheet on the Following Page

Using the guide below, complete the Grazing Enhancement Worksheet. 

Field: Indicate each section of your property

Deadline: Indicate a deadline for completing your goals

Goal: List your goals for each section of your property

Action: Describe methods for achieving your goals and include a list of the 

 resources and assistance you may need to achieve your goals

 Field: SW pasture Deadline: January 2018

Goal: Manage weeds

Action:EXAMPLE Implement a weed management plan

STEP 2: Consider Additional Grazing Improvements

As you review your responses on the Grazing Assessment in Step 1, consider implementing one or 

more of the following actions to improve grazing conditions for your animals while protecting the soil, 

water and plants on your grazed land.

q Add permanent or temporary fencing to control grazing patterns and movement of 

livestock 

q Balance grazing pressure with plant growth by rotating animals among pastures based 

on the number of animals, height of grasses and timing of scheduled grazing

q Replant pastures with more desirable forage species

q Add or develop sources of water for livestock

q Reduce the number of animals on your land

q Graze less and increase the amount of feed you purchase

q Secure additional pastureland

q Implement a fertilizer program

Grazing Enhancement Worksheet continued →

GRAZING

WORKSHEET
24

 Field: Deadline: 

 Field: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Field: Deadline: 

 Field: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Field: Deadline: 

 Field: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

GRAZING

ASSESSMENT
25

TIP: 1 Implement a Rotational Grazing System

TIPS continued →

The process of moving livestock among multiple pastures is known as rotational grazing. 

Rotational grazing improves pasture health by encouraging forage regrowth.

STEP 1: Fence pastures into smaller units. Ensure water is available in each

 section.

STEP 2: Rotate animals on a planned schedule that allows forage time to rest and 

regrow (roughly 30 days for irrigated pastures and three months for nonirrigated pasture). Beginning stands should be between 6” to 8” in height. 

STEP 3: Move livestock to another pasture when grass height is reduced below 4 

 inches.

Benefits of Rotational Grazing:

° Maintains healthy grass stands 

° Improves ability to monitor livestock health

° Reduces erosion and soil damage

° Improves manure distribution and reduces the risk of water 

contamination from concentrated nutrients in runoff

GRAZING

ASSESSMENT

TIP: 2 Manage Overgrazing

Overgrazing occurs when more than 50 percent of the plant’s leaf volume is removed in 

one rotation (see Table 1). Overgrazing stops root growth and reduces grass production. 

Pay special attention to areas close to water where livestock tend to graze more heavily.

To improve grazing distribution, consider

 the following management options:

° Install additional water sources, 

such as a stock tank or nose pump.

(Be sure to check on your water rights prior 

 to installation.) 

° Add additional tanks and pumps 

rather than allow livestock to drink 

from creeks and rivers. This will

protect streambanks and maintain

streamside grasses and shrubs.

 Overgrazing Assessment Chart

% Grass Plant 

Removed

% Root Growth 

Stopped

10% 0%

20% 0%

30% 0%

40% 0%

50% 2-4%

60% 50%

70% 78%

80% 100%

90% 100%

→

→

→

→

→

→

→

→

→

Table 1: Impact of grazing on root growth
26

Fence Type Advantages Disadvantages

4-Strand Barbed Wire  Good for cattle control  May cause injury to animals

 Labor and materials cost is high

 Periodic maintenance required

Woven Wire  Good for sheep control

 Discourages predators

 Unsafe for wildlife

 Labor and materials cost is high

 Moderate maintenance is necessary

4-10 Strand Smooth

Wire 

 Good for horses 

 Good for wildlife

 8-10 strand will 

 contain large, exotic 

 animals

 Labor and materials cost is high

 Periodic maintenance required

Electric  Good for establishing 

 pasture rotation 

 program on small

 acreages 

 Lightweight and portable

 Relatively inexpensive

 Weathers poorly

 May not exceed lengths over 1,000 feet

 Requires regular maintenance

 Requires solar or electric power source

Jackleg  Aesthetically appealing

 Durable

 Withstands heavy

 snow

 Good in areas where

 it is hard to dig or 

 drive posts

 May be adapted to

 marshy, wet areas

 Low maintenance

 High labor and materials cost

Post and Pole 

(Rail Fence)

 Durable in many areas

 Withstands heavy 

 snowfall

 Low maintenance

 High labor and materials cost

 Less durable in high rainfall areas

Hog Panels  May be formed into small, 

 portable pen

 Inexpensive and easy to 

 construct

 Good for establishing 

 rotational grazing

 Appropriate for only a few small animals

 High labor - should be moved once or twice 

 each day

TIP: 3 Selecting the Best Fence for Your Pasture

TIPS continued →

GRAZING

ASSESSMENT
27

Gather Additional Information and Assistance

 Oregon State University Extension Service 

http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/

 Soil and Water Conservation District

www.oacd.org/

 Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) 

www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

GRAZING

ASSESSMENT
28

NOTES:

GRAZING

WORKSHEET
29

You can improve the health of your plants, help keep local water supplies clean, and 

save water, energy and money by managing how water is used during irrigation. 

Keep in mind that the right balance of water for plants creates a healthy crop or pasture. 

According to the U.S. Geological survey, irrigation to produce our nations food and fiber, 

accounts for the largest use of fresh water in the United States, totalling 137 billion gallons 

used each day. You can save water and help keep your streams and groundwater clean 

by adjusting the way you irrigate. Irrigation Water Management (IWM) is a term for irrigation 

strategies landowners and farmers employ to help them save water, conserve energy and 

reduce the amount of contaminants entering water supplies, ultimately improving plant health. 

This worksheet will help you determine which irrigation water management strategies may fit 

the conditions on your property.

Instructions: Complete the following worksheet to identify where you may be able to improve 

irrigation effectiveness and efficiency. This information will also be useful if you 

choose to work with a natural resource professional to develop a detailed 

irrigation plan.

STEP 1: Assess Your Current Irrigation Practices

1. Do you irrigate only when plants need water, rather than on a regular schedule?

q No q Yes 

If “no,” be aware that scheduling regular irrigation by the calendar is less effective than 

watering according to actual plant needs. The weather, plant size and age, plant variety 

and condition, rooting depth, soil type and soil moisture available at a given time all affect 

how much and how often you need to water. Generally speaking, the greatest water use 

is in the middle of the growing season or when plants are growing rapidly and nearing 

maturity. Young, developing plants use less water as do mature plants. Water use by 

perennial crops like grass and pasture is different from those crops that mature within the 

season. Current crop water use information is available from AgriMet (www.usbr.gov/

pn/agrimet/). Over-watering can reduce plant quality by drowning roots, stressing plants, 

causing plant diseases, reducing nutrient uptake, and leaching nutrients and pesticides 

away from the root zone and into water supplies where they may be harmful. Applying 

only the amount of water needed will result in healthier plants that will be more resistant to 

disease and pests.

Consider the following STEPs to determine when to irrigate:

q

GATHER information to help you time irrigation application with:

 Crop water use information from AgriMet (www.usbr.gov/pn/agrimet/),

historical evapotranspiration data (http://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/pdf/

em/em8530.pdf), and/or on-site weather monitoring equipment.

 Crop observations

Irrigation Assessment continued →

IRRIGATION ASSESSMENT
30

Irrigation Assessment (cont.)

q

ASSESS soil moisture by feel or by using field probes or other instruments

 Soil-probe and estimating soil moisture by feel and appearance 

https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs144p2_051845.pdf.

 Soil moisture sensors

 Estimate soil moisture youtube: www.youtube.com/watch?v=B8hRPziKkAY

. q ADJUST your irrigation schedule according to seasonal changes. 

2. Does your system irrigate in a uniform manner across the entire area so that there are no areas that 

are too dry or too wet?

q No q Yes 

If "no," be aware that properly functioning irrigation equipment that applies water in a uniform 

manner will have a tremendous impact on irrigation efficiency and plant health. When 

sprinklers and nozzles deliver water to the ground evenly, you can avoid creating areas that 

become too wet while others remain too dry. 

When equipment delivers water unevenly, it is difficult to determine when and how much 

to water. This fact is true for areas irrigated by all irrigation systems—sprinkler, drip, and 

surface. If you do not know whether your irrigation system delivers water evenly across the 

entire area, you can easily conduct an irrigation system field test, as described in Tip 3 on 

page 33.

3. Do you inspect your irrigation system (sprinklers, nozzles, pumps, hoses, etc.) to ensure it is 

functioning properly?

q No q Yes 

If “no,” be aware that you may be able to reduce water use, chemical applications, and energy 

needs simply by keeping your irrigation equipment in good repair. A useful tool to help you 

conduct a more thorough evaluation of your irrigation system is the Irrigation System 

Walk-through Inspection Analysis, publication number PNW 293 developed by the Pacific 

Northwest Extension (Oregon, Idaho and Washington) This is found online at:

http://ir.library.oregonstate.edu/jspui/bitstream/1957/15996/1/pnw293.pdf

Potential problems to look for, include:

q Pressure that is too low or too high

q Nozzles that are mismatched or improperly sized

q Plugged nozzles

q Spray deflection or other obstruction to the flow of water

q Drip line with plugged emitters and uneven water distribution

q System leaks - including sprinklers, gaskets, fittings and pipes

q Ditches with dense grass and/or weed growth and poor water control structures

IRRIGATION

ASSESSMENT
31

STEP 2: Complete the Irrigation Enhancement Worksheet on the following page

Use the guide below to complete each section of the Irrigation Enhancement Worksheet.

Unit: Indicate each irrigated section of your property

Deadline: Indicate a deadline for completing your irrigation goals 

Goal: List your goals for each irrigated section of your property

Action: Describe methods for achieving your goals and included a list of the 

 resources and assistance you may need to achieve your goals

 Unit: SW field Deadline: January 2018

Goal: Improve water efficiency

Action: Determine irrigation schedule based on plant needs EXAMPLE

Irrigation Enhancement Worksheet continued →

IRRIGATION

ASSESSMENT
32

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

IRRIGATION

ASSESSMENT
33

TIP: 1 Determine Your Soil Texture

 Irrigation management depends on the texture of your soil. Sandy soils drain 

water quickly and do not store much water for plant use after irrigating. Clay soils, 

however, tend to drain poorly and can become waterlogged.

 How does the soil feel when wet?

q

Silky Smooth → SILT

q

Coarse and gritty → SAND

q

Sticky → CLAY

q

Combination of all of the above → LOAM

TIPS continued →

TIP: 3 Conducting An Irrigation System Field Test

q Sprinkler System

1. Place “catch cans” in different spots within the irrigated area. Empty tuna cans or 

other similar containers work well; just be sure that the catch cans you use are all 

the same size. Also, be sure to conduct the test only when the wind speed is less 

than 8 mph to ensure accurate results.

2. Place the catch cans evenly across the area you are evaluating. The number of 

cans needed depends on the size of the area. Generally, you will want to use as 

many as possible, placing them in a five-foot by five-foot grid.

3. Run your irrigation system for the usual amount of time. Note which catch cans 

receive water from more than one sprinkler or nozzle.

4. After irrigating, compare the water level in the different catch cans to identify where 

adjustments are needed.

5. At this time, you may also want to dig small holes in the ground in different areas or 

use a soil probe to evaluate soil moisture levels. You may notice areas where the 

soil has absorbed more or less water than others. If so, you might decide to adjust 

your irrigation system to account for the different soils.

TIP: 2 Determining When And How To Irrigate

 When do I need to irrigate?

Irrigate when the soil moisture drops to about 50 percent of its water-holding 

capacity in the top 2 feet of soil. Check the moisture content by squeezing several 

handfuls of soil taken at depths of 6 inches, 12 inches and 18 inches. Irrigate 

before the soil at 18 inches begins to crumble in your hand, since most of the 

plants’ roots are above 18 inches.

 How long should I irrigate?

In general, irrigate sand soils for short periods (2-3 hours) and clay soils for 

longer periods (9-12 hours). Ask your farm supply store or local NRCS office to 

recommend the correct size spray nozzle for your soil type and your irrigation 

system. When it rains, see if the rain has gone deeper than the soil surface before 

considering it a source of water for the plants you are growing.

IRRIGATION

ASSESSMENT
34

q Drip Irrigation System

Measure the amount of water delivered from each of several emitters and 

compare the results. Also, probe the soil to determine the depth of infiltration in 

areas around the field.

q Surface Irrigation System

Determine the uniformity of application for a surface irrigation system by probing 

the soil after irrigating to measure the depth of infiltration. Include measurements 

at regular intervals throughout the field to determine the uniformity of application.

Conducting an Irrigation System Field Test (Cont.)

TIP: 4 Irrigation System Options

Irrigation 

Method

Common 

Systems

Water 

Efficiency

Install Cost Operation 

Cost

Typical Use

Micro-Drip Poly Tubes, lay 

flat tubes with 

inline and online 

emitters.

High High Medium Orchard, 

Vineyard, 

Row Crops, 

Nursery Crops, 

Landscaping, 

Gardens

Sprinkler

 Irrigation

Hand Lines, 

Wheel lines, 

Micro Sprinklers, 

Solid Set, Pivots, 

Pod Lines, 

Linears, Big 

Guns, Travelling 

Guns

Medium to High Medium Medium AllAgricultural/

Nursery/

Landscape/

Garden 

applications

Flood

 Irrigation

Controlled Flood, 

Wild Flood, 

Gated Pipe, 

Siphon Tubes

Low Medium to low Low All Agricultural 

Crops. Row 

Crops, Forage 

Crops, Rice

IRRIGATION

ASSESSMENT
35

Gather Additional Information and Assistance

Review your answers to the previous questions and identify where you may be able to 

make improvements to your irrigation operations. Consider seeking professional assistance 

to develop a detailed Irrigation Water Management Plan. If you would like additional 

information or assistance, contact one of the entities listed below:

 Oregon Soil and Water Conservation Districts

 www.oacd.org

 Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

 Oregon State University Extension Service

 http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/

 Oregon Department of Agriculture

 http://oregon.gov/ODA

IRRIGATION

ASSESSMENT
36

NOTES:

IRRIGATION

WORKSHEET
37

The way livestock owners manage animal manure can have a dramatic effect on the 

quality of surface and groundwater as well as the overall health of your animals. To 

effectively manage nutrients from manure, livestock owners should evaluate the 

concentration of animals on the property, the amount and timing of manure applications 

to crop fields, how manure is stored and the area’s soils, slope, precipitation and water table. 

These and other factors contribute to decisions regarding effective animal waste management 

and the relationship to the soil, water, air quality, plant health and wildlife habitat—as well as to 

livestock and human health. This worksheet1 can help you assess your operation and identify 

the next steps for successful animal waste management.

Instructions: Complete the following questions if you own horses, cattle, goats, sheep or other 

animals. Each of the assessment areas below addresses a different aspect of 

animal waste management. For each question that relates to your operation, 

select the statement that best describes practices and conditions on your land. 

1. Do you use a Nutrient Management Plan2 for balanced manure application to meet crop and 

pasture needs?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: A nutrient management plan exists and the nutrient value of the manure is

 considered to balance the nutrient needs of the growing crop or pasture. 

q MODERATE: There is no nutrient management plan OR nutrients are spread evenly 

on the available fields during the growing season but there is no accounting system to

 estimate the nutrients in the manure versus the nutrient needs of the crop. 

q HIGH: Nutrients (manure) are not evenly distributed (i.e. Nutrients (manure) are always 

applied to the same plot of land regardless of need by the crop or pasture).

STEP 1: Evaluate How Manure is Handled on Your Property

1 The questions in the Manure Management Assessment were adapted, with permission, from the University of 

Nebraska Cooperative Extension publications, EC 98-750-S, EC 98-752-S, EC 98-756-S, EC 98-758-S, EC 98-

761-S, Farm*A*Syst (University of Nebraska, Lincoln, Nebraska, July 1998, 16 pages. 

2 A Nutrient Management Plan is an assessment of manure produced on a farm, how much of that manure is 

appropriate to apply on crops, and how to safely apply, remove or store it. 

Manure Assessment continued →

MANURE MANAGEMENT
38

2. Do you conduct regular Soil Tests?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: Soil tests are conducted every 2 to 4 years. 

q MODERATE: Soil tests are conducted every 5 years.

q HIGH: Soils tests are conducted either irregularly or not at all.

3. Are you knowledgeable about the nutrient content in manure?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: Book values or manure testing is done to estimate nutrient content of the 

manure and the presence of pathogens and bacteria in the manure is recognized and

accounted for in the manure handling system. 

q MODERATE: No manure analysis or book value estimates are done to obtain the 

nutrient value of the manure but it is recognized that manure contains nutrients.

q HIGH: Management of manure is not based on awareness of the nutrients that could

be used to fertilize plants or pathogens and bacteria that could be harmful to the 

environment if not managed properly.

4. Do you keep records on manure application to fields?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: Records of individual field applications for the past year are available and used

in the decision making process of when and where to apply manure. 

q MODERATE: Manure is being evenly distributed over the field(s) but records of 

manure application are not kept.

q HIGH: Manure applications are not being made and/or manure is being applied to

the same spot year after year.

5. Do you keep records of the application RATE manure is applied to fields?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: A good estimate of the manure application rate based on equipment settings is

available OR the manure application equipment is calibrated. 

q MODERATE: Manure spreading equipment is available but application rates for 

manure spreading are not known or estimated.

q HIGH: Manure applications tend to kill grass or crop OR no manure application 

equipment is available OR manure tends to accumulate in one area (i.e. manure is 

never or rarely applied to the field).

Manure Assessment continued →

Manure Assessment (cont.)

MANURE 

MANAGEMENT
39

6. Do you ensure fields are in good condition for manure application?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: Manure is applied primarily to growing crops or pasture within several weeks 

 prior to planting. 

q MODERATE: Manure is applied in late summer or fall.

q HIGH: Manure is applied to ponded or saturated soils AND/OR applied to snowcovered or frozen fields from which runoff is common.

7. Do you stack manure in fields or on bare soil?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: Manure is never stacked on a field or bare soil OR manure is stored on an 

 impermeable surface (i.e., concrete) and protected from rainfall events. 

q MODERATE: Manure is stacked outdoors during the dry season and either land 

 applied or covered before the start of the wet season.

q HIGH: Manure is stacked year round and susceptible to leaching during rainfall events 

 (i.e, manure is not protected with a tarp or cover during the wet season).

8. Do you stack manure in a feeding or holding area?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: There is no surface runoff OR there is a containment storage system for all 

surface runoff. 

q MODERATE: All feed or holding area runoff is directed to a grass filter strip. All 

upslope surface flows during an average rainfall event are diverted.

q HIGH: There is visible runoff from the feeding area.

9. Do you maintain distance between manure and/or silage storage to nearest surface water source?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: Greater than 300 feet OR buffer greater than 20 feet wide next to surface waters. 

q MODERATE: 100 to 299 feet OR buffer 10-19 feet wide next to surface waters.

q HIGH: Less than 100 feet AND no buffer next to surface water.

Manure Assessment continued →

Manure Assessment (cont.)

MANURE 

MANAGEMENT
40

10. Do you maintain distance between manure and/or silage storage to nearest well or drinking water 

source?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: The well is more than 100 feet away AND upslope from manure storage. 

q MODERATE: The well is more than 100 feet away AND downslope from 

 manure storage.

q HIGH: The well is within 100 feet of manure storage.

11. Are streams utilized for livestock watering?

q No q Yes 

Assess the needs of your operation:

qLOW: Stock are excluded from streams and ditches. Stock water is provided in 

troughs AND no trough overflow/runoff enters a stream or ditch. 

q MODERATE: Stock are excluded from streams and ditches. Stock water is provided in 

troughs where overflow may enter stream or ditch.

q HIGH: Livestock are allowed to drink directly from a stream or ditch.

Manure Assessment (cont.)

MANURE 

MANAGEMENT
41

STEP 2: Evaluate Your Answers And Determine A Course Of Action

STEP 3: Complete The Manure Enhancement Worksheet On The Following Page

Review your answers to the previous questions and identify areas in need of improvement. 

Contact your local SWCD, NRCS or OSU Extension Service office for more information and 

assistance on how to develop a proper manure management plan.

Use the guide below to complete each section of the Manure Enhancement Worksheet. 

Unit: Indicate each section of your property relevant to manure management

Deadline: Indicate a deadline for completing your manure management goals

Goal: List your goals for each section of your property

Action: Describe methods for achieving your goals. Included a list of the resources 

 and assistance you may need to achieve your goals

 Unit: SW field Deadline: January 2018

Goal: Reduce odor

Action:EXAMPLE Implement a nutrient management plan

Manure Enhancement Worksheet continued →

MANURE 

MANAGEMENT
42

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

MANURE 

MANAGEMENT
43

TIP: 1 Preventing Water Pollution

 Establish and maintain shrubs and grasses along streams and around animal

 confinement areas to trap and absorb pollution-laden runoff before it reaches 

streams or groundwater.

 Locate manure piles, corrals and other livestock confinement areas away 

from wells and streams. Use water gaps or off-stream stockwater tanks to 

minimize livestock trampling of streambanks.

 Cover manure piles to retain nutrients. Test manure for nutrients. Apply 

manure to pasture when plants are actively growing and can use this natural 

fertilizer. To avoid polluted runoff, do not spread manure on wet soils or 

frozen ground.

Gather Additional Information and Assistance

Because animal wastes have the potential to contaminate streams, certain regulations may 

apply to your operation. In addition, some measures to address animal waste issues require 

engineered solutions. If you would like to take additional steps to address issues with manure 

management, consider working with a natural resource professional to develop a nutrient 

management plan. Conservation planning assistance is available from the local SWCD, 

NRCS, OSU Extension Service or the Oregon Department of Agriculture, as well as through 

a number of private natural resource consultants.

 Oregon Soil and Water Conservation Districts

 www.oacd.org

 Natural Resources Conservation Service 

 www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

 Oregon State University Extension Service

 http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/

 Oregon Department of Agriculture

 http://oregon.gov/ODA

MANURE 

MANAGEMENT
44

NOTES:

MANURE 

MANAGEMENT
45

As you complete the other worksheets that relate to your property, you will see that most of 

your management decisions should take into account the qualities of the soil. The soil is 

inherently related to all other natural resources on your land. This worksheet was developed 

to help you identify the attributes of the soil, improve soil conditions, and make informed 

management decisions for your overall property.

Instructions: For each distinct section of your property, answer the following questions as appropriate 

for your land. Select the best time for assessment and take measurements at the same 

time every year. Take all measurements under adequate moisture conditions (i.e., not 

excessively dry or wet). Certain measurements, such as soil life, earthworms, structure 

and tillage are affected greatly by field operations and should be assessed before major 

tillage. Remember, this list is not all-inclusive, so be sure to take additional notes on the 

condition of the soil as necessary.

STEP 1: Conduct a Visual Soil Assessment

Indicator When to 

Evaluate

Rating Description Rating

(circle one)

Low Medium High Low Med High

Available Water 

Holding Capacity

Any time plants are 

actively growing; also 

when management 

changes

Plants are 

stressed 

immediately after 

rain or irrigation; 

soil has limited 

capacity to 

hold water; 

requires frequent 

irrigation

Crops are 

not the first 

in the area to 

suffer from a 

dry spell; soil 

requires average 

irrigation

Soil holds water 

well over time; 

deep topsoil for 

water storage; 

crops do well in 

dry spells; soil 

requires less than 

average irrigation

L M H

Compaction When soil is moist but 

not wet; when roots 

have penetrated to 

tillage depth

Hard layers 

and tight soil; 

restricted root 

penetration; 

obvious hardpan; 

roots turned 

awkwardly

Firm soil; slightly 

restricted root 

penetration; 

moderate shovel 

resistance and 

penetration of 

wire flag beyond 

tillage layer

Loose soil; 

unrestricted root 

penetration; no 

hardpan; mostly 

vertical root plant 

growth

L M H

Crop Vigor/

Appearance/Crop 

Disease

When plants are 

actively growing 

and soil moisture is 

adequate

Stunted growth, 

uneven stand, 

discoloration, 

low yields

Some uneven 

or stunted 

growth, slight 

discoloration, 

signs of stress

Healthy, vigorous, 

and uniform stand

L M H

Crusting Before planting or 

during active growth 

and when soil 

moisture is adequate

Soil surface 

seals 

easily; seed 

emergence 

inhibited

Some surface 

sealing

Soil surface has 

open or porous 

surface all 

season

L M H

Earthworms/Soil 

Organisms

Before planting or 

tillage; when soil is 

moist

Few worms, 

insects, fungi, 

or instances 

of soil life per 

shovel; no casts 

or holes

More worms, 

insects, fungi, 

or soil life per 

shovel; some 

casts or holes

Many worms, 

insects, fungi, 

and/or soil life 

per shovel; many 

casts or holes

L M H

SOIL ASSESSMENT
46

Management 

Altered Drainage 

(wetter soil surface 

and decreasing 

wetness with depth)

Late wet season; 

beginning of growing 

season

Excessive wet 

spots in field, 

ponding, root 

disease

Some wet spots 

in field and soil 

profile; some 

root disease

Water is evenly 

drained through 

field and soil 

profile; no 

evidence of root 

disease

L M H

Plant Roots Crop is actively 

growing; moisture 

is similar for each 

assessment

Poor growth/

structure, brown 

or mushy roots; 

roots are mostly 

horizontal

Some fine 

roots, mostly 

healthy; some 

horizontal roots

Vigorous, healthy 

root system; 

deep roots; good 

color; many 

vertical and 

horizontal roots

L M H

Salts/ Sodiums When soil starts to 

dry and weather gets 

hot; throughout the 

growing season

Salts: Visible 

salt/alkali; dead 

plants

Salts: Stunted 

growth; signs of 

leaf burn from 

salts

Salts: No visible 

salt, alkali or 

plant damage, 

especially after 

rains

L M H Sodium:

Surface seals or 

severe crusting; 

little infiltration 

and fluffy 

surface when 

dry; high pH

Sodium: Only 

some spots with 

sealed surface

Sodium: No 

crusting or fluff at 

surface

Soil/ Tilth/ 

Structure/ 

Porosity

Soil is moist and not 

extremely wet or dry; 

after a period without 

soil disturbance (note 

the time since last 

tillage)

Soil clods 

difficult to 

break; crusting; 

tillage creates 

large clods; 

soil falls apart 

in hands; very 

powdery; few 

worm and root 

channels 

Moderate 

porosity; some 

crusting; small 

clods; soil 

breaks apart 

with medium 

pressure; few 

aggregates; 

some old and 

new root and 

worm channels

Soil crumbles 

well; is friable, 

porous; many 

small, soft 

aggregates; 

many worm and 

root channels

L M H

Surface Organic 

Material/ Residue

After harvest and 

again before tillage/

spring planting

No visible roots 

or residue; very 

slow or rapid 

decomposition

Some residue Lots of roots/

residue in 

many stages of 

decomposition

L M H

Water Infiltration After rain or irrigation; 

evaluate crusting as 

soil surface dries

Water on 

surface for long 

period of time 

after rain or 

irrigation; may 

have crust on 

surface when 

dry

Water drains 

slowly after rain 

or irrigation; 

some ponding

No ponding after 

heavy rain or 

irrigation; water 

moves steadily 

through soil L M H

Wind/Water 

Erosion

Early season before 

any tillage; after wind 

or rain events; after 

irrigation

Soil deposits; 

large gullies 

joined; obvious 

soil drifting

Some 

deposition; few 

gullies; some 

discolored 

runoff; some 

evidence of soil 

drifting

No visible soil 

movement; no 

gullies; clear 

or no runoff; 

no obvious soil 

drifting

L M H

Indicator When to 

Evaluate

Rating Description Rating

(circle one)

Low Medium High Low Med High

SOIL 

ASSESSMENT
47

STEP 2: Evaluate Your Soil Quality

STEP 3: Identify Soil Management Options

 

Review your assessment of each indicator and determine where you want to improve your land. 

List the targeted soil quality improvements.

 

For each issue you identified in your soil assessment, review the associated management options 

below and on the following page. Remember, soil quality is specific to the type of soil you have and 

the goals you have for it. 

Problem Cause Management Options (check all that apply)

No Water Holding 

Capacity

• Sandy Soil

• Compaction

• Low organic matter

• Excessive drainage

• Low biological activity

q Reduce compaction

q Increase organic

 residues, diversify 

 crop rotation

q Add animal manure

q Use cover crops

q Improve conditions 

 for earthworms/ soil 

 life

q Avoid tillage when

soil is wet

Compaction • Working wet soil

• Heavy machinery

• Repeated tillage at the 

 same depth

• Excessive animal 

 traffic

• Poor aggregation

• Low organic matter

q Avoid working wet soil

q Reduce traffic/tillage 

 operations

q Use controlled traffic 

 patterns

q Alter tillage depth

q Add cover crops

q Use non-compacting

 tillage (e.g. chisel v. 

 moldboard)

q Add organic residue

q Avoid heavy 

 machinery

q Subsoil or rip 

 when soil is not 

 excessively wet 

 or dry

q Use crop rotations

q Add animal manure

Low Crop Vigor/ 

Appearance Crop 

Disease

• Compacted layers

• Saturated soil

• Soil pathogen 

 problems

• Nutrient deficiencies or 

 imbalance

• Low organic matter

• Monoculture

• Low biological diversity

• pH levels affecting 

 nutrient availability

• Use of ammonium 

 fertilizers

q Soil test and correct 

 nutrient and pH levels

q Check for pathogens/

 pests

q Reduce compaction 

 following harvest

q Improve drainage

q Use animal manure

q Add cover crops

q Use crop rotation

q Diversify cropping 

 system

Crusting • Excess sodium

• Low organic matter

• Low crop residues

q Increase organic 

 residues

q Reduce tillage depth

q Use animal manure

q Add cover crops

q For sodium problem, 

 apply gypsum and 

 flush with irrigation 

 water

SOIL 

ASSESSMENT
48

Minimal Earthworms/ 

Soil Life/ Organisms

• Low organic matter

• Low residues

• Excess pesticides or 

 fertilizers

• Excess tillage

• Poor aeration

q Increase organic 

 residues

q Use conservation 

 tillage

q Use crop rotation

q Add cover crops

Management Altered 

Drainage

• Tillage pan

• High water table 

under natural 

conditions

• Poor soil structure

q Subsoil to break up 

 tillage pan

q Add cover crops to the 

 rotation

q Reduce soil 

 disturbance

q Add high residue 

 crops

Unhealthy Plant Roots • Compaction 

• Low biological activity 

• Poor soil structure/ 

aggregation 

• Nutrient imbalance 

• Incorrect pH range

q Avoid tillage when soil

 is wet

q Increase organic 

 residues

q Diversify crop rotations

q Reduce compaction

q Test soil and correct 

 nutrient and pH levels

Appearance of Salts/

Sodium

• Saline or low calcium 

 irrigation water/well

• Shallow water table

• Poor drainage

• Excess evaporation

q Leach excess salts

q Plant deep-rooted crops

q Grow salt tolerant crops

q For sodium, get a soil 

 test and apply gypsum, 

 if appropriate

q Increase vegetative 

 cover to improve soil 

 structure and lower 

 soil temperature 

q Manage irrigation 

 water

q Improve drainage

Low Soil Tilth/Structure/ 

Porosity

• Low residues

• Low organic matter

• Excess tillage

• Fallow

• Compaction

q Increase organic 

 residues

q Use cover crops

q Add animal manure

q Reduce number of 

 tillage passes

q Avoid tillage when 

 wet

q Diversify crop 

 rotation

Low Surface Organic 

Matter/

Residue

• Excess tillage

• Residue burned off

• Low residue crops

• Too much fallow

• Insufficient additions of 

 crop residue

q Diversify or increase 

 crop rotations

q Add animal manure

q Use cover crops

q Use high residue 

 crops

q Reduce tillage

Low Water Infiltration • Compaction

• Surface crusting

• Plow pan

• Poor soil structure/

 aggregation

• Excess sodium

q Add organic residue

q Add animal manure

q Use cover crops

q Diversify crop rotations

q For sodium problem, 

 apply gypsum and flush 

 with irrigation water

q Subsoil or rip when 

 soil is not excessively 

 wet or dry

q Minimize tillage to 

 preserve soil structure

Wind/Water Erosion • Lack of cover/residue

• Low organic matter

• Poor aggregation

• Tillage pan or 

 compacted layer

• Tillage practices that 

 move soil downslope

• Excessive tillage

• Low diversity crop 

 rotation

q Diversify crop rotations

q Reduce tillage

q Use animal manure

q Use cover crops

q Apply irrigation water 

 management practices

q Increase surface 

 residue or roughness

q Shorten slope length

q Plant strip crops

q Use windbreaks

Problem Cause Management Options (check all that apply)

SOIL 

ASSESSMENT
49

STEP 4: Complete the Soil Enhancement Worksheet on the Following Page

Use the guide below to complete each section of the Soil Enhancement Worksheet.

Unit: Indicate each section of your property

Deadline: Indicate a deadline for completing your goals

Goal: List your goals for each section of your property

Action: Describe methods for achieving your goals, and include a list of the 

 resources and assistance you may need to achieve your goals

 Unit: SW field Deadline: January 2018

Goal: Improve crop health

Action: Add cover crops and diversify cropping system EXAMPLE

Soil Enhancement Worksheet continued →

SOIL 

ASSESSMENT
50

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

SOIL 

ASSESSMENT
51

Gather Additional Information and Assistance

 Oregon Soil and Water Conservation Districts

www.oacd.org

 Natural Resources Conservation Service 

www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

 Oregon State University Extension Service

http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/

 Oregon Department of Agriculture

http://oregon.gov/ODA

TIP: 1 What's in Soil?

TIP: 2 Changing Your Landscape: Rules and Regulations

Every soil is unique in that it contains a mixture of particle sizes and pore spaces that 

influence how it is managed. The mixture of sand, silt, and clay mineral particles in soils 

influence many soil functions, including how much water is held in the soil, how quickly 

the soil dries, the nutrients that can be held in the soil before leaching losses occur, ease 

and timing of tillage, and susceptibility to wind and water erosion. 

In addition, most soils contain about 50 percent pore space, which is essentially a place 

for water, air, roots and living organisms to reside. All plants depend on soil organisms to 

decompose organic materials matter and make nutrients available. 

A high functioning soil has a diverse population of soil organisms. Soil organisms can be 

favored by limiting soil disturbance, maintaining a cover of growing plants or plant residue 

on the soil, and by providing a diversity of crops or organic matter inputs to the soils.

Both Oregon state laws and federal laws regulate the manipulation of natural wetland 

areas. Wetland soils occur in areas where water covers the soil, or is present either at or 

near the soil surface all year or for varying periods of time during the year. Wetland soils, 

also known as hydric soils, also include soils that formed under wet conditions. As such, 

they can be very difficult to identify, and local experts should be consulted before you 

alter these soils. 

Contact your local NRCS specialist before doing any management that removes 

water such as tiling (drainage), filling in wet areas or adding ditches to remove water. 

SOIL 

ASSESSMENT
52

NOTES:

SOIL 

ASSESSMENT
53

This assessment will help you identify potential concerns for the stream or streamside

 area on your property. The questions below are designed to draw your attention to 

items that you may be able to improve. This tool was adapted from the Oregon State 

University Extension Stream* A*Syst1 publication.

Instructions: Answer the questions below. For items to which you answer “Yes,” read the 

following suggestions on how you can improve or protect your stream. A “Yes” 

answer does not necessarily mean there is a problem, but it can help you 

focus your efforts as you learn more about the particular situation and possible 

courses of action. You can find resources for more information or assistance 

in the contact list at the bottom of each section. 

1 The Stream Condition Assessment worksheet was adapted, with permission, from the Oregon State University 

Extension publication, EM 8671, Stream*A*Syst: A tool to help you examine conditions on your property (Oregon State 

University, Corvallis, Oregon, June 2000, reprinted March 2001), 16 pages; available online at: 

https://www.wcc.nrcs.usda.gov/ftpref/wntsc/strmRest/StreamASyst2001.pdf

2

 Home*A*Syst is a homestead assessment system provided by the Oregon State University Extension developed to help 

evaluate possible risks to the groundwater and drinking water; available online at: http://wellwater.oregonstate.edu/ under 

“assessment tools.”

3 An acronym reference sheet along with contact information is provided in the Resources section of the STEPS 

Workbook.

1. Are there ever any signs of pollution, such as soap bubbles, oil sheen, unusual odors, manure, 

sewage or trash in or along the stream?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

qUse the Home*A*Syst2 online assessment and/or the Nutrient Management 

worksheet in this packet to evaluate the situation. 

q Have your septic system pumped and inspected. If problems with the septic system 

are found, make repairs. 

q Work with the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) to assess whether the problem

requires notification of additional agencies.

q Remove trash with care. If potentially hazardous, contact the Oregon Department of 

Environmental Quality (DEQ).

q Contacts: septic pumping company, Oregon State University (OSU) Extension, local 

soil and water conservation district (SWCD), Natural Resources Conservation Service 

(NRCS), local watershed council, Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA), 

Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).3

q Fence livestock from stream.

STEP 1: Complete the Stream Assessment Worksheet

Stream Assessment continued →

STREAM ASSESSMENT
54

2. Is the water green? Is there a green scum or thick, stringy, green clumps? Or, is there a heavy, 

dirty-brownish, slimy material coating underwater objects?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

qDetermine whether nutrients from fertilizer or manure runoff are entering the stream 

from your property. If so, take corrective steps. 

Preventative steps include: 

° Ensuring the nutrients are being applied at the correct amount

° Planting herbaceous vegetation along the stream as a buffer

° Ensure that fertilizer is not being mixed near the stream

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, watershed council, OSU Extension 

3. Do water withdrawals or upstream dams ever result in extremely low water levels?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

qImprove the efficiency of water use on your property. 

qCheck into financial incentives for returning allocated water to the stream. 

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, watershed council, Freshwater Trust

4. Does the stream become muddy after storms and then take a long time to clear up again? Or is, 

the water in the stream muddier or cloudier when it leaves your property than when it enters?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

qDetermine whether sediment is entering the stream from your property; look for runoff 

from unpaved roads, fields, severe bank erosion or other sources. When you find the 

problem, contact natural resource professionals to assist you. 

q Provide natural, long-term streambank protection by planting vegetation that was 

historically on your site (grasses, trees, shrubs). Contact a natural resource specialist 

 for assistance in determining this.

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, watershed council, OSU Extension, FSA

 

Stream Assessment continued →

Stream Assessment (cont.)

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
55

6. Are there culverts, dams or other artificial structures in your portion of the stream that could block

 fish passage?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

qContact ODFW for more information. If the barrier prevents fish passage, modify it

according to ODFW recommendations and with assistance from natural resource 

specialists. Be aware that some barriers may be owned by the county or other

organizations, which will need to be contacted prior to any repair. 

q Contact: ODF, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW), SWCD, NRCS, 

 USFWS

7. Are bridges or in-stream culverts inadequate in size, and as a result unable to handle high, 

 overbank flood flows?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

qMeasure or estimate the culvert’s length and width and contact an expert to help 

determine the culvert size needed for that site. 

q Contact: ODF, OSU Extension forestry agent, ODFW, SWCD, NRCS, USFWS 

8. Are any irrigation ditches, tile lines, drainage ditches or other artificial waterways connected to 

the stream?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

qCreate grass buffer or tree/shrub corridor adjacent to the waterway that is at least 

20 feet wide or more to remove contaminants before drainage water enters the stream. 

q Screen pumps or irrigation diversions to prevent aquatic life from becoming trapped 

in the irrigation system. Screens must be designed according to ODFW standards. 

Also, irrigation ditches can be screened at the original point of diversion thereby 

removing the need for screens at multiple points (every landowner) along the ditch. 

Consider this watershed scale solution with your neighbors.

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, ODFW, local irrigation district, FSA

Stream Assessment continued →

Stream Assessment (cont.)

5. Search for your stream in the bound copy of DEQ’s 2006 303(d) database or online on the 

 Oregon DEQ Web site at: www.deq.state.or.us/wq/assessment/rpt0406/search.asp. 

 Does this or other data show that your stream is limited in any water quality measurements? 

q No q Yes 

 If YES, consider the following management options:

qLearn more about limiting factors and the connection with activities on your land. 

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, OSU Extension

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
56

10. Is the channel much wider and shallower than in the past? Are gravel, sand or silt bars 

noticeably building? Are there high, vertical banks in straight sections? Or, are there major 

changes to the stream after large flow events? For example, are pools filled in, riffle areas 

moved, streambanks greatly eroded, or has the whole channel moved?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

q Work with an expert to determine the causes and possible solutions. Permits are 

needed to do this work. Do not be tempted to fix this on your own. 

q The stream might be out of balance with the amount of water and sediment it is 

carrying. Ask about possible changes or restoration efforts. Keep in mind that changes 

might be needed up and downstream, so coordinate your efforts with neighbors.

q Contact: watershed council, SWCD, NRCS, neighbors, USFWS, ODFW

11. Are there areas of bare soil along the stream that will come into contact with water during 

high or overbank flows?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

q Establish an appropriate riparian planting and work with a natural resource specialist 

to determine whether artificial protection measures are needed while plants become 

established.

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, watershed council, Farm Services Agency (FSA)

12. Have activities such as construction, grazing, landscaping or tilling within 35 feet of the top 

of the streambank disturbed permanent vegetation?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

q Identify streamside areas that need vegetation and commit to management changes in 

that area.

q If the area is grazed by livestock, develop and follow a prescribed grazing program, 

build off-stream watering facilities or water gaps, and establish fencing as necessary. 

Work with a natural resource specialist to assist you with these items.

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, watershed council, OSU Extension, FSA

Stream Assessment continued →

Stream Assessment (cont.)

9. Are there any berms, dikes, or riprap along the stream or has the stream been straightened?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

q With the help of a natural resource expert, determine how the structures or 

straightening may be affecting the condition of the stream. If a problem exists, modify 

as recommended by the expert.

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, USFWS,ODFW

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
57

13. Does the vegetation along the stream have trouble surviving or reproducing?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

q Determine whether the water level has dropped or the channel has deepened. If so, 

roots might not be able to reach the water table.

q If the water level is not the problem, remove weeds or invasive plants that might be 

shading young trees, shrubs or competing with desired grasses. Protect young trees 

with tubes to prevent animals from eating them. Protect desired grasses with fences 

and prescribed grazing. Plant vegetation recommended for your site.

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, OSU Extension, watershed council

14. Are there large areas with plants considered to be weeds or invasives, such as blackberry, Scotch 

broom, reed canarygrass, English ivy, thistle, cheatgrass or others?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

q Complete the Weed Management Strategy worksheet in this packet to help you 

identify the most appropriate method for removing weeds. Contact your local County 

Weed Inspector for assistance in controlling invasive species along streams: 

www.oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/WEEDS/county_contacts.shtml. Contact a natural 

resource specialist and find information on pesticide use along salmon streams at the 

following Web site: www.oregon.gov/ODA/PEST/buffers.shtml.

q Determine whether grazing management changes are needed. 

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, OSU Extension, watershed council, ODA

15. Does bare soil or stands of grass or other herbacious vegetation dominate the area where trees or 

shrubs should naturally grow? Or is there bare soil where native grasses should naturally grow?

q No q Yes 

If YES, consider the following management options:

q Identify the reason(s) for lack of vegetation and address the causes.

q Restore vegetation to the streamside area. Make sure to plant a combination of trees, 

shrubs and/or grasses suited to your location and follow through to ensure their 

survival. 

q Ask about available assistance. 

q Contact: SWCD, NRCS, watershed council, FSA

Stream Assessment (cont.)

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
58

STEP 2: Complete the Stream Enhancement Worksheet on the Following Page

Use the guide below to complete each section of the Stream Enhancement Worksheet.

Unit: Indicate each section of your property with a stream

Deadline: Indicate a deadline for completing related stream goals

Goal: List your goals for these identified units on your property

Action: Describe methods for achieving your goals. Included a list of the resources 

 and assistance you may need to achieve your goals

 Unit: SW stream Deadline: January 2018

Goal: Improve fish habitat

Action: Enhance riparian area by planting vegetation EXAMPLE

Stream Enhancement Worksheet continued →

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
59

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
60

TIP: 1 Management Practices to Improve Stream Health

 Consider protecting the stream corridor and associated wetlands from other land 

use activities.

 Maintain fences and manage grazing activities.

 Maintain a 15 foot wide or greater vegetated buffer next to the stream.

 Preserve healthy floodplains to slow and filter flood water.

TIP: 2 Enhancing Riparian Areas

 Delay mowing or haying grassy areas until late July when birds have finished 

nesting.

 Increase the buffer width around open water. In general, studies show that widths 

of 50 feet trap eroded soils, 100 feet filter pollutants, and 200-300 feet provide 

wildlife corridors.

 Avoid applying fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides in the buffer to keep pollutants 

out of the water.

 Fence livestock away from streambanks to reduce erosion and protect water

quality.

 Provide offstream water sources for livestock.

 Remove weeds and replace them with native plants.

TIPS continued →

TIP: 3 Making Your Property Fish Friendly

To thrive, fish and other aquatic organisms require specific environmental conditions:

 Clean, cold water.

 Riparian vegetation to filter pollutants and sediment while shading and cooling the 

water.

 Rocks and riffles to churn and add oxygen to the water.

 Overhanging vegetation and large pieces of wood to hide under.

 Deep pools to provide colder water in the summer and unfrozen water in the 

winter.

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
61

Gather Additional Information and Assistance

 Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA)

 http://oregon.gov/ODA

 Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)

 www.dfw.state.or.us/

 Local watershed council

 http://oregonwatersheds.org/

 Oregon State University Extension Service (OSU Extension)

 http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/

 Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)

 www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

 Oregon Soil and Water Conservation Districts (SWCD)

 www.oacd.org

 Farm Service Agency

 https://www.fsa.usda.gov/

 US Fish and Wildlife Service

 https://www.fws.gov/

 Freshwater Trust

 https://www.thefreshwatertrust.org/

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
62

NOTES:

STREAM

ASSESSMENT
63

All landowners should be prepared to address problems with noxious and invasive weeds. No 

matter how you use your land, weeds can find their way onto your property. Once they do, 

they can spread rapidly, choke out forage for livestock and wildlife, and reduce the productivity 

of pastures, gardens, and crops. Because weeds are often less effective at holding the soil in 

place, they also contribute to soil erosion and water pollution. Many weeds are also poisonous to 

livestock. Complete the following assessment to begin developing your management strategy to 

control weeds on your property. 

STEP 1: Familiarize Yourself with the Weeds in Your Area

Site Description Address

The Silent Invasion Clickable Oregon map 

showing potential invaders 

by region; includes photos 

and additional information

www.opb.org/news/series.silentinvasion

Oregon Department 

of Agriculture

 Weed Page

Weed list with pictures, 

profiles, grant information, 

contacts for assistance, and 

more

http://oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/WEEDS/

INVADERS Database Query by area to search 

weeds in your county

http://invader.dbs.umt.edu/

Washington State 

Noxious Weed 

Control Board

Weed identification by color, 

habitat, toxicity, or plant 

characteristics

www.nwcb.wa.gov/search.asp

100 Most Dangerous 

Invaders

Priority concerns regarding 

invasive plants in Oregon

www.oregon.gov/OISC/most_

dangerous.shtml

 Refer to the following online resources to obtain a better understanding of the weeds in your area. 

List any additional sites you find in your research for future reference:

WEED ASSESSMENT
64

STEP 2: Develop a Weed Watch List

Compile a list of targeted weeds for your property. Take notes on identifying features, print 

photographs and attach any information that will help you identify these plants.

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes

WEED

ASSESSMENT
65

Instructions: Complete the Weed Inventory (the first two columns of the worksheet). Then, refer to 

your local weed management contacts and online resources to help you assess your options. Next, 

complete the Management Strategy portion of the worksheet (column three). Refer to the example 

provided below as a guide.

STEP 3: Inventory the Weeds on Your Property

STEP 4: Create a Weed Management Strategy

Carefully inspect your property for signs of weeds. Weeds often occur in areas that are highly 

disturbed, so check those areas closely. Be especially suspicious of plants that are prickly, thorny, 

hairy or that bleed milky sap, as many noxious plants will have these characteristics. Note that it is 

advisable to repeat a weed inventory during different seasons, as some plants are more prevalent or 

easily identifiable at different times of year. List known weeds below.

 Site: Breezy Hills Farm Date: December 2018

Field: Pasture 1

Species 

Present: Tansy ragwort

Control Method

 & Timing: Repeated hand-pulling to remove 

 all roots

Field: Hay Field 1

Species 

Present: Scotch broom

Control Method

 & Timing: Cut mature plants, pull or dig out EXAMPLE young plants

Weed Inventory continued →

WEED

ASSESSMENT
66

 Site: Date: 

Field: 

Species 

Present: 

Control Method

 & Timing: 

Field: 

Species 

Present: 

Control Method

 & Timing: 

Field: 

Species 

Present: 

Control Method

 & Timing: 

Field: 

Species 

Present: 

Control Method

 & Timing: 

Field: 

Species 

Present: 

Control Method

 & Timing: 

Field: 

Species 

Present: 

Control Method

 & Timing: 

Field: 

Species 

Present: 

Control Method

 & Timing: 

Field: 

Species 

Present: 

Control Method

 & Timing: 

WEED

ASSESSMENT
67

TIP: 1 Weeds to Watch For

The weeds listed here are aggressive and competitive - stealing moisture, nutrients and 

sunlight from other plants. Keep in mind, however that this is just a starting point for your 

research. Review relevant websites and talk to professionals to learn about other key species.

Map Legend: Yellow - limited distribution, Red = abundant, Grey= unknown

Weed Distribution Description

Canada Thistle Perennial; blooms midsummer. Wavy margined leaves, up to 6 inches long 

and armed with yellowish spines. Small purple to white flowers in clusters. 

Extensive deep seated root system spreading horizontally. Canada thistle 

can be found in cultivated fields, riparian areas, pastures, rangeland, 

forests, lawns, gardens, roadsides, and waste areas.

Field Bindweed Perennial; blooms June to September. Stems are prostrate, one to four 

foot long from an extensive root system that often climbs or forms dense 

tangled mats. Flowers bell or trumpet shaped, white to pinkish and one inch 

in diameter. It competes with crops for moisture and nutrients, and is difficult 

to remove once established. The twining nature of the plant hampers 

harvesting of crops, especially in orchards and vineyard. Morning Glory is 

closely related to Field Bindweed and causes similar resource problems.

Leafy Spurge An aggressive perennial herb. Grows upright, branching, and reaches 

two-three feet tall with tough woody stems that exude milky white latex sap 

when broken. Leafy spurge is capable of invading disturbed sites, including 

prairies, savannas, pastures, abandoned fields and roadside areas. All parts 

of this plant contain a poisonous latex sap that can cause skin irritations in 

humans, cattle, and horses and may cause permanent blindness if rubbed 

into the eye. 

Purple Loosestrife Perennial; blooms midsummer. Grows up to 7 feet tall. Upright bushy 

plant. Flowers pink to purple, possessing 5-6 petals and numerous on a 

long spike. Its showy purple flowers crown a vigorous plant that crowds 

out marsh vegetation required by wildlife for food and shelter. Decreased 

waterfowl and songbird production has been well documented in heavily 

infested marshes. This former ornamental species can be found along 

wetlands, stream banks, and shorelines of shallow ponds.

Scotch Broom Perennial; blooms April to June. Grows 3 to 10 feet tall. Evergreen shrub 

with many slender, erect, dark green angled branches with small, simple 

leaves. Seeds of Scotch broom are long-lived (50 years plus) and mature 

plants are prolific seed producers, establishing persistent seed banks 

requiring long-term management objectives.

Spotted Knapweed Perennial; blooms July to August. Grows 2 to 4 feet tall. Typically forms 

a basal rosette of leaves in its first year and flowers in subsequent years. 

It has a single, thistle-like pinkish purple flower that measures up to 3⁄4 

inch in diameter. The slender, hairy stems grow in an erect and branched 

arrangement. It makes and secretes chemicals into the soil that kill 

surrounding plants (allelopathy).

Yellow Starthistle Annual; flowers July to August. Grows 2 to 3 feet tall. Stems are rigid, 

branching, winged and covered with cottony hairs. Flower heads yellow, 

located on the ends of branches and armed with thorns up to 3/4 inch 

long. Yellow starthistle will grow wherever cheatgrass grows, in addition to 

growing in canyon grasslands, rangelands, pastures, edges of cropland, 

roadsides, and disturbed areas. Can dramatically reduce forage quantity 

and quality.

TIPS continued →

WEED

ASSESSMENT
68

TIP: 2 Weed Control

Weeds spread fast, so regularly look for new weed patches on your property. Act 

immediately to treat them by using one or more of the practices listed below. Team up 

with neighbors to improve effectiveness. Remember, weed control itself is not enough. It 

is also necessary to modify the practices that caused weeds to become established in the 

first place.

 Prevention. Good land management will help keep desirable vegetation healthy 

and weeds under control. Avoid over-grazing that leaves bare spots for weeds, 

buy weed-free hay, plant certified seed, wash your vehicle after being in a weedinfested area, monitor your property, and respond quickly to any new weed 

infestations.

 Biological. Biological control attempts to find something in nature that can 

weaken or eventually kill a weed plant. Successful bio-agents include certain fungi 

and insects that weaken weeds by attacking seed heads and other plant parts. 

Bio control methods are used when eradication is not possible.

 Mechanical. Mow annually before weeds go to seed. Pull small patches and 

weeds near streams by hand.

 Livestock Grazing. Graze weeds before they go to seed using sheep, goats or 

cattle. Because livestock and wildlife can easily carry and spread seed on their 

coats and in their feces, avoid moving livestock from a weedy area to a weed-free 

area. Some weed species, if eaten, will make livestock sick.

 Chemical Herbicides. Herbicides can be safe and effective when properly 

applied. Always read the chemical label carefully and follow directions. Use 

chemicals away from water to avoid harming you, your animals or wildlife, and to 

prevent stream and groundwater pollution. Only certified pesticide applicators can 

use restricted herbicides. Call a farm supply store to find out about hiring custom 

chemical applicators. Be sure herbicides will not reach and kill desirable trees and 

shrubs. Dispose of leftover chemicals at hazardous waste facilities.

WEED

ASSESSMENT
69

Gather Additional Information and Assistance

 King County, Weed Index

 http://kingcounty.gov/environment/animalsAndPlants/noxious-weeds/weed-

 identification.aspx

 Oregon Department of Agriculture Weed Page

Weed lists with pictures, profiles, grant information, and more

http://oregon.gov/ODA/PLANT/WEEDS/

 PNW Weed Management Handbook 

 https://pnwhandbooks.org/weed

 Weed Control in Pasture, Rangeland, Forestry and Aquatic Situations

 Oregon State University Extension

 http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/weedsplants%2526pests

 Weeds, Poisonous Plants & Other Pests

 Oregon State University Extension

 http://smallfarms.oregonstate.edu/weedsplants%2526pests

WEED

ASSESSMENT
70

NOTES:

WEED

ASSESSMENT
71

Habitat suitability for any given species is highly dependent on where your land is 

located and the quality, quantity and distribution of food, water, cover, and living space. 

Each species has a daily and seasonal home range within which it is willing to travel to 

fulfill its life cycle. All of an animal’s life requirements for food, cover, water, and space 

must be available and safely accessible within their home range to maintain or increase its 

population size. 

The following assessment is designed to help you identify the role your land may play in 

the life cycle of species in your area and to evaluate ways to make your land more attractive 

for wildlife.

STEP 1: Complete the Wildlife Assessment 

Instructions: Generate a species list. Navigate to the Oregon Explorer's Wildlife Viewer at: 

http://oe.oregonexplorer.info/Wildlife/wildlifeviewer/. Use the map to identify your 

location. Select the tab labeled "List by Place." Select your watershed and a list 

of species that are known to occur in that area will appear. Explore the information 

about each species in your area. Print this list and maintain with your plan. Create a 

supplementary list of wildlife you see on you land in the space below. List the date or 

season you see a particular species. Space is also provided for additional notes. 

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Species:

Season 

Visible:

Notes:

Wildlife Assessment continued →

WILDLIFE ASSESSMENT
72

2. Are there any rare species known to occur on or near your land?

q No q Yes (list below) 

4. Are there areas of natural vegetation on your land?

q No q Yes (list below) 

q Grassland Describe Condition:

q Shrubland Describe Condition:

q Woodland Describe Condition:

q Forestland Describe Condition:

q Wetland Describe Condition:

 

3. Do you have particular wildlife you would like to encourage or discourage from using your land?

 

 Encourage Discourage

 q No q Yes (list below) q No q Yes (list below) 

Wildlife Assessment (cont.)

WILDLIFE

ASSESSMENT
73

5. Have you taken any special measures to provide for or protect wildlife on areas that are farmed or 

grazed?

q No q Yes (list below) 

6. Are there water sources available and safely accessible to wildlife on or nearby your property?

q No q Yes (list below) 

7. Do you allow your dogs and cats to roam the property freely?

q No q Yes 

8. Are there activities that occur on a regular basis that may disturb wildlife, such as, off-highway 

vehicle (OHV) use, tillage, mowing or burning?

q No q Yes 

9. Do you leave outside lights on at night?

q No q Yes

10. Do you spray pesticides on your property?

q No q Yes

11. Are there other activities that occur on your land that may disturb wildlife?

q No q Yes (list below)

Wildlife Assessment (cont.)

WILDLIFE

ASSESSMENT
74

STEP 2: Complete the Wildlife Enhancement Worksheet on the following page.

Refer to the guide below to complete each section of the Wildlife Enhancement Worksheet.

 Unit: SW field Deadline: January 2018

Goal: Improve upland game bird population

Action: Reduce accidental mortality due to mowing by implementing wildlife-friendly EXAMPLE harvesting techniques. Keep cats indoors.

Unit: Indicate each section of your property

Deadline: Indicate a deadline for completing your goals 

Goal: List your goals for each section of your property

Action: Describe methods for achieving your goals, and include a list of the 

 resources and assistance you may need to achieve your goals

WILDLIFE

ASSESSMENT
75

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

Goal:

Action:

 Unit: Deadline: 

 Unit: Deadline: 

Goal:

Action:

WILDLIFE

ASSESSMENT
76

 Migratory Bird Treaty Act – This federal law protects migratory birds, their 

eggs, feathers or nests from any means, manner, or attempt at hunting, pursuing, 

wounding, killing, possessing or transporting. Most birds are protected by this law. 

Consult your local U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office for more information on 

which species are protected.

 Oregon State Laws and Administrative Rules – There are several state laws 

and administrative rules that protect, or regulate harvest of, various game and 

non-game species of wildlife. Consult your local Oregon Department of Fish and 

Wildlife office for more information.

 Endangered Species Act – This federal law protects threatened and endangered 

plants and animals and the habitats in which they are found. Consult your local 

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service office for more information on which species are 

protected.

TIP: 1 Wildlife Regulations

 Keep pets indoors or kenneled. Cats and dogs pose a serious risk to wildlife. 

For more information visit: www.abcbirds.org/abcprograms/policy/cats/

 Limit off-road recreation activities. This is particularly important during 

sensitive periods of the year when wildlife may be vulnerable, such as, bird 

nesting season and deer and elk fawning/calving or wintering season.

 Kill the lights at night. Many wildlife species are active at night and the 

presence of lights can inhibit their ability to utilize and move through your property.

TIP: 2 Reduce Human Impact on Wildlife Habitat

 Establish vegetation buffers around water sources to allow wildlife to 

access water without being detected.

 Create water sources near natural habitat areas and away from houses, 

roads, and other areas of human activity.

 Provide well-designed access and escape ramps for all stock troughs. Wildlife 

that fall into troughs swim around the inside perimeter of the tank until they

encounter something that allows them to get out. Simply placing a floating board 

in the trough generally will not be sufficient to prevent drowning. For more 

information, refer to Water for Wildlife at: 

www.batcon.org/pdfs/water/bciwaterforwildlife.pdf 

 Place logs in ponds to provide basking and hiding cover.

TIP: 3 Improve Water Resources for Wildlife Use

WILDLIFE

ASSESSMENT
77

 Leave plots of unharvested crop, pasture, or hayland adjacent to native 

 habitats to provide food for wildlife close to their cover.

 Manage grazing utilization provides cover, as well as forage for wildlife.

 Provide nest and/or roost structures (such as bat boxes, nest 

 boxes for wester bluebirds, perches for raptors, etc.)

 Adjust the timing of harvest to avoid the primary nesting season for birds 

(approximately March 1 – July 15) if possible.

 Harvest crops in a manner that allows wildlife to escape the field (i.e., 

harvest fields from the inside-out or side-to-side instead of from the 

outside-in).

 Limit pesticide use as much as possible. Consider using Integrated Pest 

Management strategies to control pests. Many types of beneficial 

wildlife, such as bats, raptors, and owls, can be attracted to your land 

to assist in controlling pests. For more information, refer to the Artificial 

Nesting Structures and Integrated Pest Management (IPM) and Wildlife at: 

https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/detail/or/technical/

ecoscience/bio/?cid=nrcs142p2_045877

 Ensure that fences are designed to be safe for wildlife. Fences can 

be a major barrier to wildlife movement across the landscape. Wildlife 

frequently die from becoming entangled in poorly designed fences. For 

more information, refer to How to Build a Fence with Wildlife in Mind at 

https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/Internet/FSE_DOCUMENTS/nrcs142p2_007658.

TIP: 4 Improve Agricultural Land for Wildlife Use

Gather Additional Information and Assistance

 Oregon Soil and Water Conservation Districts

www.oacd.org

 Natural Resources Conservation Service 

www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

 Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)

www.dfw.state.or.us

 US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)

www.fws.gov/oregonfwo

WILDLIFE

ASSESSMENT
78

NOTES:

WILDLIFE

ASSESSMENT
79

Acid / alkaline / 

neutral soil 

An aspect of the soil’s chemical reaction. A pH of 7 indicates the soil is 

neutral, neither acid nor alkaline. A pH below 7 indicates acidity, while 

above 7 indicates alkalinity. Most plants grow well within a pH range 

varying from slightly acid to slightly alkaline.

Aeration The process of loosening or puncturing the soil to increase water and air 

permeability.

Aggregation The process of sand, silt and clay coming together to form larger 

granules. Good aggregation is apparent in a crumbly soil with waterstable granules that do not disintegrate easily. Well-aggregated soil 

has greater water entry at the surface, better aeration, and more waterholding capacity than poorly aggregated soil.

Annual A plant that completes its life cycle in one growing season or a single 

year. 

Aquifer A sand, gravel or rock formation capable of storing or conveying water; 

an underground geological formation or group of formations containing 

usable amounts of groundwater that may supply wells or springs.

Available 

nutrients

Minerals or chemicals in the soil in a form plants can absorb and use for 

growth.

Beneficial Insect Insects that act as pollinators, prey on pests, or perform other useful 

services in the garden, as opposed to those that are considered pests; 

examples include green lacewings, ladybugs and praying mantises

Berm A mound or bank of earth.

Biennial A plant that completes its life cycle in two years. Typically, these plants 

grow vegetatively during the first year, then fruit and die the second 

year. 

Border A soil berm 15-to-18-inches tall created by tillage to keep flood irrigation 

water inside a portion of a pasture.

Broadcast

seeding

The application of seed by hand or with the aid of a seed spreader.

Buffer strip A narrow area of permanent vegetation often planted along the edge 

of a field, typically implemented to slow water flow and wind velocity, 

or filter sediment and chemicals from runoff. 

GLOSSARY OF TERMS
80

Buffer zone A neutral area that acts as a protective barrier separating two conflicting 

forces such as, an area that acts to minimize the impact of pollutants on 

the environment or public. 

Capability class A classification system that demonstrates the suitability of soils for most 

varieties of crops. 

Claypan A hard, compact layer in the subsoil primarily consisting of clay; separated 

from overlying materials by a sharply defined boundary in the soil profile. 

Claypans usually impede the movement of water, air and plant roots.

Clay Also known as “heavy” soil; a soil composed of extremely small mineral 

particles; sticky, heavy soil that is difficult to work. Wet clay soil dries out 

slowly because the downward movement of water (drainage) is slow. Clay 

soil expands when wet and cracks when dry. 

Complete 

fertilizer

Any organic or inorganic material, natural or synthetic, that supplies all 

three of the primary nutrient elements for plant growth: nitrogen (N), 

phosphorous (P) and potassium (K).

Compost A soil amendment made from organic waste materials (dead leaves, 

etc.). Materials are stored in a manner where moisture, heat and 

microorganisms may break them down.

Conifer A plant that produces cones; a plant belonging to the family Coniferae, 

such as pines, junipers and cedars.

Cover Crops Species grown in order to improve soil quality, rather than to harvest 

something

Cultural resources Achaeological and historic resources, as well as the historic, aesthetic 

and cultural elements of the environment.

Deciduous A plant that sheds all of its leaves at a single time each year (typically 

autumn).

Dike An earth ridge built to guide or hold water within prescribed limits; a small 

levee.

Dissolved oxygen 

(DO)

Oxygen dissolved in water and readily available to fish and other aquatic 

organisms.

Diversion A channel to slow, divert or collect water and/or reduce runoff. 

Drainage Movement of water out of the soil profile. When this happens quickly, 

the soil is considered “well drained.” When this happens slowly, soil is 

considered “poorly drained.” 

GLOSSARY

OF TERMS
81

Drip irrigation A system for watering at points on or just below the soil surface so that a 

plant’s root zone is thoroughly moistened without wasting water. This is 

accomplished with very low pressure over a long period of time to achieve 

the necessary penetration.

Drip irrigation A system for watering at points on or just below the soil surface so that a 

plant’s root zone is thoroughly moistened without wasting water. This is 

accomplished with very low pressure over a long period of time to achieve 

the necessary penetration.

Ecosystem A community of plants, animals and people, as well as the physical 

environment in which they live.

Effluent Discharge or emission of a liquid or gas.

Erosion The detachment and movement of soil particles caused by wind or water. 

Eutrophication Degradation of water quality due to the water’s enrichment by nutrients, 

primarily nitrogen (N) and phosphorous (P), which results in excessive 

plant (principally algae) growth and decay. When levels of N:P are 

about 7:1, algae will thrive. Low dissolved oxygen (DO) in the water is a 

common consequence, resulting in a loss of aquatic organisms.

Evapotranspiration 

(ET)

Movement of water into the atmosphere by evaporation from the earth’s 

surface and by transpiration from plants.

Evergreen Plants that retain their foliage throughout the year.

Fallow The practice of leaving land either uncropped, weed-free, or with 

volunteer vegetation at a time when a crop would typically be grown; the 

objective may be to control weeds or accumulate water and/or available 

plant nutrients.

Floodplain The land bordering a stream, built up of sediments from stream flood 

deposits, and subject to inundation during flooding. Also, the surface of an 

alluvial fan subject to flash flooding from the canyon above.

Fungicide Pesticide used to control fungi, including mold, rot and mildew.

Green Manure Growing plants that accumulate nutrients and organic matter, which are 

tilled into the earth to improve soil quality; the terms green manure and 

cover crops are often used interchangeably

Groundwater Water from wells and underground aquifers.

Gully erosion The erosion process whereby water accumulates and often recurs in 

narrow channels and, over short periods, removes the soil from these 

narrow areas to considerable depths; often causes channels too deep to 

easily repair with ordinary farm equipment.

GLOSSARY

OF TERMS
82

Hard water Water that has a high dissolved mineral content. 

Hardpan A soil layer with physical characteristics that limit root penetration and 

restrict water movement.

Heavy metals High density metals. In agronomic use, these include copper, iron, 

manganese, molybdenum, cobalt, zinc, cadmium, mercury, nickel and 

lead. In small quantities, these metals may supply nutrition for plants, 

although they become toxic when accumulated at high levels.

Herbaceous Plants that do not have woody stems, only soft green stalks, and leaves

Herbicide Pesticide used to control undesirable vegetation. An herbicide may be 

applied as a pre-emergent to prevent germination of weed seeds or as a 

post-emergent to kill weeds after growth.

Hydrologic cycle The movement of water in and on the earth and throughout the 

atmosphere through processes such as precipitation, evaporation, runoff 

and infiltration.

Infiltration The downward entry of water into the soil profile from precipitation, 

irrigation and runoff; also called percolation.

Integrated Pest 

Management

A strategy of controlling crop pests through biological methods and 

cultivation practices, as opposed to chemical pesticides

Insecticide Pesticide used to control insects.

Invasive species A non-native species. Introduction of an invasive species often results in 

harm to the environment. An invasive species may be a plant, animal or 

any other biologically viable species that enters an ecosystem beyond its 

native range. 

Irrigation The application of water to soil to maintain desirable soil moisture for plant 

growth when rainfall is insufficient.

Irrigation Water 

Management (IWM)

The set of irrigation strategies that landowners and growers use to save 

water, conserve energy and prevent contaminants from entering water 

supplies. 

Leaching The process by which chemicals (fertilizers, pesticides, manure, etc.) are 

dissolved and transported through the soil by water; the washing out or 

flushing of a soluble substance from an insoluble one. Gardeners leach 

soil with water when they want to remove excess salts (see “salinity”). In 

high-rainfall areas, rainwater leaches both good and harmful substances 

from the soil.

Load The quantity of a substance (possibly a contaminant) entering receiving 

waters. 

GLOSSARY

OF TERMS
83

Loam Soil that is rich in organic material, does not compact easily, and drains 

well after watering; an “ideal” garden soil; a mix of sand, silt and clay.

Microclimate The climate of a small area or locality, as opposed to the climate of a 

county or state.

Monoculture The cultivation or growth of a single crop or organism, especially on 

agricultural or forestland. 

Mulch Any plant residue, by-product or other suitable material that is applied 

to the soil surface to conserve moisture, control erosion, suppress weed 

growth, moderate soil temperatures, improve soil condition or assist in 

establishing plant cover. Examples include bark, wood chips, sawdust, 

straw and plastic. 

Nitrogen One of three major elements required for plant growth; the first nutrient 

listed in the formulation on a fertilizer label. For example, on a fertilizer 

label that reads “10-8-6,” 10 is the amount of nitrogen.

Nonpoint source The entry of a pollutant into a water body from widespread or diffuse 

sources with no definite point of entry; the source is not a readily 

discernible point, like a discharge pipe.

Noxious weed Invasive plants that harm the environment. Noxious weeds choke out 

crops, destroy range and pasture lands, clog waterways, affect human 

and animal health, and/or threaten native plant communities.

N-P-K Shorthand for the ratio of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, the 

three most important plant nutrients; the three numbers listed on bags of 

fertilizer correspond to the percentage of these nutrients contained in the 

product

Nutrients, 

Available 

Nutrients

Elements in the soil that can be readily absorbed and assimilated as 

nourishment by growing plants, e.g., nitrogen, phosphorous, iron and 

potassium. 

Nutrient 

Management 

Plan 

A plan used by landowners for assessing and managing how nutrients 

(commercial fertilizers and animal wastes) are utilized on their farm; it 

includes a determination of how much fertilizer is appropriate to apply on 

crops. For a livestock operation, it also includes an assessment of manure 

production, collection, storage and utilization.

Organic matter, 

soil organic 

matter

Dead and decaying plant or animal tissues, including leaves, roots, 

manure, and the bodies of insects, earthworms, and microbes; compost 

piles are comprised primarily of organic matter, an essential ingredient 

of fertile soil. The organic components in soil, including undecayed and 

decaying plant and animal tissues, sometimes called “humus.”

GLOSSARY

OF TERMS
84

Overstory The larger and taller trees that occupy a forest area and shade the young 

trees, brush, grass, forbs, etc. that grow below.

Perennial A plant that lives for more than two years. The top growth may die down 

each winter, followed by new growth in the spring. 

Permeability A characteristic of soil that aids water movement through the soil layers

Pesticide A chemical used to control pests, such as animals, weeds, insects and 

diseases. 

pH A value that indicates the acidity of the soil. The scale ranges from 0 to 

14, with 0 being strongly acidic, 7 neutral, and greater than 7 alkaline or 

basic. 

Phosphorous One of three major elements required for plant growth; the second nutrient 

listed on a fertilizer label. For example, on a fertilizer label that reads “10-

8-6,” 8 is the amount of phosphorus. 

Pitch tube A tubular mass of resin that forms on the surface of a tree’s bark as the 

tree attempts to “pitch out” an insect.

Point source The release of a substance from a pipe or discrete conveyance into a 

water body or a water course, e.g., a wastewater treatment plant. 

Porosity The volume of pores in a soil sample (non-solid volume) divided by the 

bulk volume of the sample; the amount of all open spaces between the 

solid grains of soil. Porosity determines how much water the soil can hold. 

Potassium Essential nutrient involved in various metabolic functions in plants 

(abbreviated K on fertilizer products); greensand, kelp meal and wood 

ashes are the primary sources of organic potassium

Recharge The periodic replacement of groundwater. 

Recharge area A land area over which precipitation infiltrates into the soil and percolates 

downward to replenish an aquifer.

Riffle A rocky shoal or sandbar lying just below the surface of a waterway.

Rill erosion An erosion process where numerous small channels, typically a few 

inches deep, are formed. 

Riparian zone The transition area between a water ecosystem and the adjacent upland 

area. These zones are identified by their soil characteristics or plant 

communities and include the wet areas near streams, ponds, lakes, 

springs and other surface waters.

Runoff That portion of precipitation or irrigation water which fails to infiltrate the 

soil and instead flows over the soil surface.

GLOSSARY

OF TERMS
85

Salinity In agronomy, an excess of salts in the soil. Salinity can harm many plants, 

causing leaves to scorch and turn yellow and stunting plant growth.

Sand A soil with comparatively large particles (more than 0.05 millimeters in 

diameter) that are rounded rather than flattened. Compared to clay soils, 

sandy soils contain much more soil and air, drain well and warm quickly. 

They also dry out quickly, which, if used for crops, necessitates frequent 

watering that washes out valuable nutrients. Also referred to as “light” soil 

with a “gritty” feel.

Saturated zone A portion of the soil profile in which all large pores are filled with water.

Sediment The soil material, both mineral and organic, that is in suspension, is being 

transported, or has been moved from its site of origin by erosion (by air, 

water, gravity, etc.).

Septic tank A sewage disposal tank in which a continuous flow of waste materials is 

decomposed by anaerobic (in the absence of oxygen) bacteria.

Sheet erosion The removal of a relatively uniform, thin layer of soil from the land surface 

by rainfall and largely unchanneled surface runoff (sheet flow).

Silage A mixture of raw chopped materials such as field corn, sorghum, grass, 

or clover that is converted into winter feed for livestock through a process 

of fermentation; this feed can be stored for several years with little loss of 

nutrients.

Silt An intermediate soil textural class between sand and clay. Silt consists of 

particles between 0.05 and 0.002 millimeters in diameter, has a smooth 

feel, and is not sticky when moist.

Soil amendment Matter (organic or inorganic) that is added to soil to improve its texture, 

aeration, drainage and retention of nutrients or moisture.

Soil profile The arrangement of soil horizons (layers) below the surface of the ground.

Soil survey A detailed report on the soils in a defined area. A soil survey contains 

maps with soil boundaries, photos, descriptions and tables of soil 

properties and features. Soil surveys are used by farmers, real estate 

agents, land use planners, engineers and others who desire information 

about the soil’s properties.

Soil texture The texture of a soil resulting from the relative proportions of the various 

soil separates (sand, silt and clay) it contains.

Soluble Capable of being dissolved easily.

State Historic 

Preservation 

Officer (SHPO)

The official responsible for administering the National Historic 

Preservation Act and the appropriate state statutes.

GLOSSARY

OF TERMS
86

Strip cropping The practice of growing two or more crops in alternating strips along the 

land’s contours, often perpendicular to the prevailing direction of wind or 

surface water flow to reduce erosion.

Subsoil (noun) The stratum of weathered material that underlies the surface soil.

(verb) To plow or turn up the subsoil.

Systemic pesticide A pesticide that moves inside a pest through absorption; the movement is 

usually upward and outward. There are systemic insecticides, fungicides 

and herbicides.

Taproot A main root that grows straight down. Dandelions have taproots, so do 

oak trees. Taproots can grow very deep if there is a lack of surface water.

Tillage pan, 

plow pan

A layer or layers in the soil which are highly compacted, hardened or very 

high in clay content relative to the layer immediately above.

Tilth A qualitative measure of soil quality, based on parameters such as organic 

matter content, water-holding capacity, and texture

Topsoil The fertile, biologically-active layer of soil closest to the surface; topsoil 

includes organic matter, humus and a plethora of microbes, earthworms, 

and insects.

Transpiration The release of moisture (absorbed largely by plant roots) through leaves. 

Temperature and humidity affect the transpiration rate.

Understory Any vegetation (trees, shrubs, grasses, forbs, lichens, mosses, etc.) 

growing under a relatively continuous cover of branches and foliage 

formed by the overstory. 

Unsaturated zone A portion of the soil profile that contains both air and water. Water in this 

zone cannot enter a well.

Vole A small, typically burrowing, mouselike rodent with a rounded muzzle.

Water right(s) The right to draw water from a particular source, such as a lake, irrigation 

canal or stream. 

Watershed 

(drainage basin)

The land area (catchment) which captures precipitation and conveys it 

to a particular water body. It is bounded by ridges or “divides.” A large 

watershed is made up of the smaller watersheds of all its tributaries.

Water table The upper level of a saturated zone in an aquifer below the soil surface.

Wellhead 

protection

The practice of preventing pollutants from seeping into well water at or 

near any active or abandoned wells.

Wetlands Areas that are regularly wet or flooded; areas with a water table within 

the root zone or standing at or above the land surface for at least part of 

the growing season. These areas are host to a prevalence of water-loving 

plants and wildlife.

GLOSSARY

OF TERMS
87

Common Name Official Title Web Address

Conservation District Soil and Water Conservation 

District

www.oacd.org

DEQ Oregon Department of 

Environmental Quality

www.oregon.gov/DEQ

Extension Oregon State University 

Extension Service

extension.oregonstate.edu/

FSA Farm Service Agency www.fsa.usda.gov

GLCI Grazing Lands Conservation 

Initiative

www.grazinglands.org/

NOWC Network of Oregon Watershed 

Councils

www.oregonwatersheds.org/

NRCS USDA Natural Resources 

Conservation Service

www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

OACD Oregon Association of 

Conservation Districts

www.oacd.org

ODA Oregon Department of 

Agriculture

oregon.gov/ODA

ODF Oregon Department of Forestry www.oregon.gov/ODF

ODFW Oregon Department of Fish and 

Wildlife

www.dfw.state.or.us/

OSU Extension Oregon State University 

Extension Service

extension.oregonstate.edu/

Oregon Heritage 

Commission

Oregon Parks and Recreation 

Dept: Heritage Programs: 

Oregon Heritage Commission 

www.oregon.gov/OPRD/

HCD/OHC/index.shtml

OHS Oregon Historical Society www.ohs.org/

OWEB Oregon Watershed 

Enhancement Board

www.oregon.gov/OWEB

CONTACTS & ACRONYMS
88

OWRD Oregon Water Resources 

Department

www.oregon.gov/OWRD

RD USDA Rural Development https://www.rd.usda.gov/or

SHPO State Historic Preservation 

Officer

www.oregon.gov/OPRD/

HCD/SHPO/index.shtml

SWCD Soil and Water Conservation 

District

www.oacd.org

USDA United States Department of 

Agriculture

www.usda.gov

USGS United States Geological 

Survey

www.usgs.gov

Watermaster listed on the Oregon Water 

Resources Dept. Web site

www.oregon.gov/OWRD/

offices.shtml#Region_

Watermaster_Map

Watershed Council Listed on the Oregon 

Watershed Enhancement Board 

Web site and the Network of 

Oregon Watershed Councils 

(NOWC) Web site

www.oregon.gov/OWEB

http://www.

oregonwatersheds.org/

Web Soil Survey Online soil information provided 

by NRCS

https://websoilsurvey.

sc.egov.usda.gov/App/

HomePage.htm

Weed Board Listed on the Oregon 

Department of Agriculture Web 

site

www.oregon.gov/ODA/

PLANT/WEEDS

Common Name Official Title Web Address

CONTACTS AND 

ACRONYMS
89

NOTES:

CONTACTS AND 

ACRONYMS
90

NOTES:

CONTACTS AND 

ACRONYMS
91

NOTES:

CONTACTS AND 

ACRONYMS
Produced by:

USDA NATURAL RESOURCES 

CONSERVATION SERVICE

Production & design:

Catherine Bailey, USDA NRCS

For more information or to request 

additional copies, contact:

USDA NRCS Public Affairs

1201 NE Lloyd Blvd, Suite 900

Portland, OR 97232

With Technical Expertise and 

Review by:

Alexis Collins, Bill Cronin, Bob Gillaspy, 

Deborah Virgovic, Denise Troxell, Chris 

Hamilton, Heather Medina, Jeremy 

Maestas, Kathy Ferge, Louann Brant, 

Kathy Pendergrass, Misty Seaboldt, 

Meghan Walter, Teresa Morales, and Ron 

Raney, USDA-NRCS

Melissa Fery, OSU Small Farms 

Extension

www.or.nrcs.usda.gov

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
OREGON

United States Department of Agriculture

Natural Resources Conservation Service

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer, and lender.

www.or.nrcs.usda.gov