Oregon’s Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat Program SFISH Awards Over $5 Million in Grants
The Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat Program SFISH has awarded its first round of grants, totaling over $5 million, to 20 projects across Oregon. This program, managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry ODF, focuses on improving fish habitats on small forestlands by enhancing forest roads.
According to Josh Hanson, the SFISH Coordinator at ODF’s Small Forestland Owner Office, these projects will restore access to over 74 miles of habitat for native salmon and trout. They will also improve water quality by replacing or removing 37 culverts in 19 watersheds.
Program Background
Established in 2022 by the Legislature, the SFISH Program provides grants to small forestland owners for road improvement projects that benefit fish species. The funds can also help reduce risks to natural resources from forest roads.
Most of the projects will begin next summer, though some may take longer and start in the summer of 2026, according to Hanson.
The projects will benefit several fish species, including steelhead trout, cutthroat trout, Chinook, Coho, and Chum salmon. Two projects east of the Cascades will specifically benefit Columbia River Redband Trout.
To qualify for the program, a landowner must own less than 5,000 acres of forestland in Oregon and harvest no more than 2 million board feet of forest products per year on average. Landowners can apply for an SFISH grant at any time, and the wait time for funding is considered when awarding grants.
Hanson noted that more funding for projects is expected to be available in July 2025. Landowners should check the SFISH webpage for updates.