Willow Harvest & Fishing at Green Island - Nov. 15

In partnership with McKenzie River Trust, The Redsides will be volunteering at the special Green Island property on Saturday, Nov. 15th. Following the work, the property will remain open until 4 p.m. for exclusive fishing access on the Willamette River and in the property’s pond.

Register HERE.

Questions? Email Redsides President Jesse Robbins.

Join us for a day of willow harvest at Green Island, just outside of Coburg, Oregon, to support replanting efforts in the newly restored Quartz Creek! Quartz Creek, located near Blue River, Oregon, is a key tributary of the McKenzie River, benefiting native species like salmon, trout, lamprey, beavers, and more.

We will work in the morning and welcome people to stay to fish in the afternoon along the Willamette River or the island’s restored gravel pond to help remove non-native species such as largemouth bass and bluegill.

Work will take place from 9:00 am — 12:00 pm, with gates remaining open to fish until 4:00 pm. This event is geared towards the fishing community - please help spread the word and invite friends to join you! Registration is required to help us prepare tools and materials - Register HERE.

Willow has a strong root system that helps filter water, stabilize banks, and control erosion while providing shade and thicket to support nesting habitat and shelter for fish and wildlife. It is also an important food source for native pollinators, hummingbirds, and beavers.

The willow processed at this work party will go upriver for a community Willow Planting Party at Quartz Creek the following day. Willow will root right out of the stem when put into the ground. One long branch can be cut into several pieces, and each piece will sprout, so long as it is planted right side up. We hope to have at least 1,500 stems to plant, and we could use many hands to help make this possible!

You don't need any experience; tools, gloves, and chairs will be provided. This activity can be done standing or seated. Some project pieces include bending, lifting, and walking on uneven ground.

Additional project details will be shared ahead of the event. Porta-potties and drinking water are available on site. Snacks and beverages will be provided! Please bring a lunch that meets your dietary needs if you plan to stay and fish.

Directions: Green Island is located at the confluence of the McKenzie and the Willamette Rivers and the property is reached via Green Island Road in Coburg, OR.