The Willamette Valley

Located at the foot of the Oregon Coast Range, the Willamette Valley comprises some of the most fertile and lush farmland in the Northwest. Stretching from just below the Oregon-Washington border to the city of Eugene, the Willamette Valley has long been considered the heartbeat of Oregon. Nineteenth century pioneers following the Oregon Trail were drawn by its Eden-like reputation for abundant land, idyllic beauty and ample resources. These first emigrants did not turn to farming to make a living, but rather to profitable gains of the lumber and fur trades. It was not until later that Oregon's farming industries truly took shape.

Now containing Oregon's largest metropolitan area, the Willamette Valley is considered the state's economic center and is home to more than 2 million people. At its northern tip lies Portland, Oregon's largest city and cultural center. The evidence of Oregon's 19th century homesteaders can still be seen today in the Portland vicinity, where historic landmarks such as Oregon City still flourish.

The Willamette Valley is best known for its agricultural accomplishments, which include a flourishing wine industry. The valley is actually divided into two distinct appellations, although both are known for their rich and robust Pinot Noir and exceptional Pinot Gris. Hazelnuts, raspberries, blackberries and surprisingly, Christmas trees, are major exports of the Willamette Valley area.

The moderate winter temperatures and agriculture throughout the Willamette Valley offer wintering grounds to over 350,000 wintering Canada geese. The dusky Canada goose has historically wintered only in the region and was the population responsible for formation of several federal refuges. Management of mixed stocks of geese for hunting and dealing with growing depredation complaints by landowners makes for one of the most complex goose management issues in North America.

A field trip is scheduled in conjunction with NAAGC on January 15 and will tour private and publicly management lands. Numerous large flocks of mixed flocks of Canada and cackling geese will be present with good viewing opportunities. Personnel from state and federal refuges will give presentations on management practices and issues for geese in the region.

Check out the registration page for sign up and payment. The field trip is scheduled to begin at 8 a.m. and end mid afternoon so as to allow persons to travel home that evening if desired. The field trip will originate and return to the conference hotel.