Oregon’s State Wildlife Action Plan Revision
What you need to know and how to get involved
ODFW is revising the State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP), now known as the Oregon Conservation Strategy (OCS). States must review and update their SWAP every 10 years to qualify for State and Tribal Wildlife Grants, which are a key source of conservation funding in Oregon. ODFW needs to complete this update by October 1, 2025.
You can learn more and get involved by visiting the SWAP Revision website: https://dfw.state.or.us/SWAP-Revision
What's a SWAP and why does it matter for Oregon?
Oregon's natural areas—from coastal forests to sagebrush steppe—are home to hundreds of fish and wildlife species. Nearly 300 species in the state face extinction due to threats like habitat loss, climate change, invasive species, and pollution. Iconic wildlife, including bighorn sheep and coho salmon, along with many insects and plants, are at risk.
ODFW is responsible for protecting and enhancing all wildlife populations. Because of the wide variety of species and habitats, and the many challenges they face, ODFW works with many partners to get the job done. Every ten years, the department reviews the conservation status of Oregon's wildlife and creates a State Wildlife Action Plan (SWAP). This plan focuses on Species of Greatest Conservation Need by:
Identifying threats and necessary conservation actions
Outlining strategies to preserve habitats and restore ecosystems
Providing a menu of actions to support coordinated efforts statewide
Every state and territory has a similar plan, which is also required for participation in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's State and Tribal Wildlife Grants program. To remain eligible for these funds, states must update their SWAP at least once every ten years. ODFW uses its SWAP not only to meet grant requirements but also to guide its conservation work, set grant priorities, and make recommendations to other agencies.
ODFW is now revising its SWAP. This update builds on previous versions from 2006 and 2016, along with the Oregon Conservation Strategy, and includes new information on emerging risks. The revision began in late 2023 and is ongoing, with a deadline to submit the completed plan to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service by October 1, 2025. The revised SWAP will be approved by the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission at their August 2025 public meeting.
Because public participation is vital to this process, ODFW is holding virtual engagement sessions throughout the first half of 2025. These virtual meetings provide a flexible way for more people to participate, even if they cannot attend live sessions. Meeting recordings are available, ensuring everyone has a chance to provide input.
Get information about upcoming meetings and find the past meeting recordings here: https://dfw.state.or.us/SWAP-Revision/meetings.asp
During these sessions, ODFW staff will present proposed updates, gather feedback, and answer questions. Attendees can share comments and suggestions during the meetings. Topics to be covered include:
Key Conservation Issues
Conservation Opportunity Areas
Habitats
Species
Conservation Toolbox
ODFW encourages participation from state and federal agencies, tribes, conservation groups, and the public to help shape the future of Oregon's wildlife conservation efforts.
Optional: News Hook and/or Suggested Post Date:
March 14, 2025
Photos/Video + Captions:
(Please include photos as an attachment when submitting a story. If you would like a caption, please include below.)
Use pica photo for main image, and any additional OCS species throughout.
Insert timeline info graphic that is on the bottom of the web page
link to SWAP playlist
OPTIONAL: Key Tag Words:
(please include keywords you would use to search for the article online)
SWAP, conservation, OCS, state wildlife action plan, revision
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