In 1995, the CTUIR established Iskuulpa Watershed Project under the Columbia Basin fish and wildlife mitigation program to provide in-kind mitigation for impacts from construction and operation the John Day and McNary hydroelectric projects.  Habitats within the 24,200 acre watershed provide approximately 3,832 habitat units of protection credits for seven target mitigation species.  HEP species include mule deer, mink, western meadowlark, downy woodpecker, yellow warbler, great-blue heron and blue (dusky) grouse.  Protection and enhancement of habitat within the watershed provides dual benefits to fish and wildlife by 1) providing perpetual protection of watershed resources, 2) enhancing habitats to provide partial mitigation, and 3) improving natural salmonid habitat and production.

Located on the western slopes of the Blue Mountains in Oregon, Iskuulpa (formerly known as Squaw) Creek, drains into the Umatilla River upstream of Pendleton, Oregon.  The project area contains approximately 958 acres of floodplain riparian habitat, 8,042 acres of grasslands, 4,898 acres of forest environments and 1,409 acres of upland shrub.  The project area also contains 7 miles of anadromous and resident fish habitat.

The 2009 SOW is a continuation of management activities on the Iskuulpa Watershed Project and provides direction for planned actions in the 2009 contract period.  Many of the major tasks are annual in nature, and contribute to on-going protection of the wildlife area.

Project activities include: 1) Planning and Design; 2) Construction and Implementation; 3) Operations and Maintenance; and 4) Monitoring and Evaluation.  Management efforts undertaken under this contract are designed to protect, enhance, and mitigate target wildlife mitigation species, promote watershed health, and nurture self sustaining ecosystems.  

Management activities planned for 2009 focus on the following tasks:

- Administration and operations of the wildlife area
- Monitor and maintain existing fence to control trespass livestock
- Continue weed monitoring and treatment:
- Continue and expand treatment of sulfur cinquefoil
- Continue treatment of Himalayan blackberry, which outcompetes desirable vegetation
- Maintain seasonal road closure to protect habitat for spawning steelhead
- Renew grazing leases to provide rest from livestock
- Seek matching funds