Join Oregon’s Willamette Valley Broadband for a walk on Friday May 3rd at 8:00 AM at the Jackson Frazier Boardwalk in Corvallis to learn more about this special place. The Jackson-Frazier Wetland covers approximately 150 Acres and is owned by Benton County and managed through their Natural Areas and Parks Department.

Wetlands are important features in the landscape that provide numerous beneficial services for people, fish and wildlife. Some  services/functions include protecting and improving water quality, providing fish and wildlife habitats, storing floodwaters and maintaining surface water flow during dry periods. These valuable functions are the result of the unique natural characteristics of wetlands.

The Boardwalk area hosts a treasure of federal and state threatened and endangered plants including: Bradshaw’s lomatium, Sidalcea nelsoniana, and Kincaid’s lupine.

As a diverse wet green island within the sea of the more developed Willamette Valley landscape, it’s also an important habitat for animals and birds. More than 70
birds have been identified.  One can often see Mallards, Red-tailed hawks, Virginia
rails, Sora, Black-capped chickadees, and Marsh wrens. At the right time of day, visitors will often see deer, fox, raccoon, beaver, and nutria.

Jerry Davis, former director of Benton County Parks and Phil Hayes, local naturalist and advocate, will lead us on this short walk (under one mile-long) to learn more about this gem.  The early start will hopefully allow us to experience more wildlife.