2022 Letter of Appeal

Originally published December 15, 2022

Dear OWF Supporter,

What comes to mind when you think of Oregon? For many, the thought conjures up images of pristine forests, picturesque mountain peaks, powerful Pacific waves crashing against rocky cliffs. Oregon’s identity is inseparable from its natural wonders—landscapes that have served as habitat for a multitude of species since time immemorial.

But in this day and age, wildlife are facing modern problems. Migration corridors are bisected by busy roadways, habitats are shrinking with new development, and wildfire season is longer and more severe. It’s increasingly difficult for animals to fulfill their life’s purpose.

It’s hard work to find ways for humans and wildlife to peacefully coexist, but fostering abundant and diverse ecosystems makes the outdoors better for everyone and every thing. That’s why in 2023, we’re reprioritizing the work we do to follow the recommendations of the Oregon Conservation Strategy (OCS). The strategy provides big-picture, science-backed blueprints for how to prioritize conservation efforts across the state’s nine ecoregions. It’s called a strategy, not a plan, because its purpose is to guide decisions on how to most efficiently invest the resources available to create meaningful change and ensure long-term success.

Many of our existing projects already follow the principles outlined in the OCS, such as improving access for strategy species and targeting high-impact Conservation Opportunity Areas. That said, shifting our focus towards OCS goals is a strategic choice that positions us directly on the front lines of a growing movement. It’s a powerful vehicle to garner project support from organizations with more resources than we have. It means that we can do more than ever in the future—but we will need your help to get there.

We wouldn’t be where we are today without the help of generous donors like you. Taking environmental action is urgent, and we are calling on your continued support to help us usher the Foundation into a new era. Can we count on your donation to help us as we move forward? Your tax-deductible gift allows us to fully realize these new opportunities, and make an investment in a brighter future for the generations that follow ours.

Warmest regards,

Tim Greseth, Executive Director