When Hans Koch moved to his wooded property, he knew almost nothing about forest management. His land was a dense, impenetrable tangle of young trees, blackberry thickets and invasive hawthorn. Seeking guidance, Koch connected with the West Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District (SWCD) to develop a forest stewardship plan and begin the overwhelming work of restoration. 

Through a partnership with Oregon's Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), the project grew into a long-term effort that involved work to open up the forest floor, restore native understory plants, remove invasives and establish thousands of trees that now form the beginnings of a healthy, diverse canopy. The transformation has been dramatic: a once choked woodland is becoming a thriving ecosystem. 

Koch hopes the work he’s doing today will grow into a resilient forest for the future and encourages other landowners to reach out to their local SWCD and NRCS office.