Looking for Larch
Oct 27, 2023
October marks the peak of fall color season here in Central Oregon. One colorful local tree that demands attention is the bright yellow Western Larch.
As a neighbor of Deschutes Land Trust's Metolius Preserve and Metolius River Preserve, we want to keep you up-to-date on activities at the Preserves. That's why we've created this Metolius Preserve and Metolius River Preserve news hub with links to our Neighbor Newsletters and other updates from the Preserve. We also encourage you to join us for hikes at the Preserves, volunteer at the Preserves, or contact us if you have any questions. Thank you!
**4/8/26 Advisory: The Land Trust plans to conduct a prescribed burn in early May at the Metolius Preserve. The Preserve will remain open during the burn period, but we recommend staying off the Pine Trails in the southern section of the Preserve due to smoke and burn impacts. Learn more.**
Metolius Preserve and Metolius River Preserve Neighbor Newsletters:
- Spring 2025 Neighbor News
- Fall 2024 Neighbor News
- Spring 2024 Neighbor News
- Fall 2023 Neighbor News
- Fall 2022 Neighbor News
- Spring 2022 Neighbor News
- For Neighbor Newsletters from 2021 and before, please contact the Land Trust.
Other news about the Metolius Preserve and Metolius River Preserve:
Enjoy Fall With a Hike on the Lake Creek Trail
Sep 22, 2023
Fall is officially here, which means it’s time to hit your favorite trails that ring in the season! I always get a craving in September to find a local trail that takes in the turning vine maple leaves—one of our best, local fall colors.
Pooh Sticks and Heffalumps
Sep 14, 2023
Get inspired to get your kids outside this fall by channeling your inner Winnie the Pooh and his crew!
Happy Birthday to the Metolius Preserve!
Jul 24, 2023
It was 20 years ago on July 25, 2003, that the Land Trust created the Metolius Preserve. To mark the occasion, Land Trust staff share what they love about the Metolius Preserve.
Summer Wildflowers in Central Oregon
Jul 05, 2023
Summer has arrived, and with it comes a new wave of wildflowers blooming.
Laying the Groundwork for Metolius Preserve Forest Restoration
May 10, 2023
The Land Trust will be mowing portions of the Metolius Preserve this spring to prepare for future forest restoration efforts.
Fall Wildlife Wanderings
Dec 08, 2022
Land Trust Preserves were busy this fall—with wildlife! We saw a variety of creatures, from bears, cougars, and elk to songbirds, bobcats, and coyotes. Check out our latest wildlife wanderings!
Fall Colors at Land Trust Preserves
Nov 10, 2022
Did you get to enjoy this year's fleeting fall colors? Enjoy some highlights from a few of the Land Trust's Preserves.
Elk Rutting Season is Here
Oct 06, 2022
The leaves are changing, the days are getting crisper, and pumpkins are for sale at the farmer’s market. That’s right, it’s officially elk rutting season. Wait, what?!? Learn more about the elk mating season.
Summer Wildlife Wanderings
Sep 08, 2022
Central Oregon's wildlife has been on the move this summer! We hope you enjoy the latest installment of wildlife photos and videos from Land Trust Preserves and beyond!