ODFW and Oregon Hunters Association to host seed giveaway alongside OHA Youth Field Day at E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area May 9

SALEM, Ore. – ODFW and the Oregon Hunters Association (OHA) will give away free wildlife forage seed to landowners at E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area near Corvallis on Saturday, May 9. The giveaway coincides with OHA's Youth Field Day (limited spots available).

Seed giveaway

More than 500 bags of free seed will be available, with each bag covering at least two acres of wildlife habitat. Landowners are encouraged to contact Wildlife Area Manager Shawn Woods at shawn.k.woods@odfw.oregon.gov to reserve seed in advance. Remaining bags will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis while supplies last.

Seed pickup begins at 7 a.m. at E.E. Wilson Wildlife Area.

The seed is provided at no cost thanks to contributions from OHA and Turf Merchants, Inc.

The mix is a cool season blend of species that attract watchable wildlife, game birds, and mammals. It contains grains, grasses, legumes, and brassica that provide critical food sources for animals during fall, winter, and early spring in places where native forage is lacking or has deteriorated.

This mixture is designed to be used on a wide range of revegetation sites, pre-formulated based on seeds per square foot, species establishment and final mixture diversity upon maturation. It is ideal for project sites not requiring continual maintenance.

Enhancing wildlife habitat on private lands plays a critical role in sustaining Oregon's native species. Through efforts like this seed giveaway, ODFW and OHA are working to improve habitat quality and ensure these natural resources and the traditions connected to them remain available for future generations.

OHA Mid-Willamette Chapter Youth Field Day

The Youth Field Day takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is open to kids ages 11-17. Spots are limited (only 30 available). Participants will learn dog handling, shotgun skills, archery skills, and how to field dress a deer.

Registration is free and lunch will be provided for participants and chaperones. Register through the Mid-Willamette Chapter of the Oregon Hunters Association.

For more information contact John Tacke at (541) 231-8165 or email oha.mid.willamette@gmail.com