Land Steward Field Training is held Sept. 8–Dec 8, 2026. Registration and Tuition Required.

Become a Land Steward! Whether you own a few acres or a few hundred, this field-based program will help you manage your natural resources more effectively. Join local landowners in a field-based learning opportunity that will take you to see stewardship projects in action. The goal of this education and service program is to provide real-life examples so that participants will implement what they have learned on their own property.The Land Steward Program supports land owners who want to learn how to balance sustainability with their rural lifestyles. Meet natural resource professionals and learn how they can support you. Network with other landowners. Develop your action plan. Includes site visit with a Land Steward mentor.

Join Oregon State University’s Forestry and Natural Resources Extension for the Land Stewards field training in Jackson County to help you sustainably manage your property.

The Land Steward training helps folks living on rural land achieve their dreams for their property through weekly lessons, field visits, presentations from natural resource professionals, and the creation of a personalized land management plan, according to Eugene Wier, OSU Extension Land Steward coordinator.
“This training gives landowners a real leg up in finding solutions and support to reach their goals. They get to see stewardship in action, figure out what their land needs and plug into a network of resources and community support that helps them get there.” Wier said.

Topics covered include creating a management plan; forest and woodland management; wildfire preparedness; wildlife habitat; stream ecosystems; healthy soils; pasture management; rural water-system management; rural economics and enterprise; and how to access resources from agency and non-profit organizations.

• The training is based out of the Southern Oregon Research and Extension Center in Jackson County and is held 12-5 p.m. Tuesdays, Sept. 8 through Dec. 8 (No Class on week of Nov 24).
• It includes thirteen classes (nine are field days), books and other resources, and an optional Land Steward mentor visit.
• Tuition is $300 individual or $450 for a couple on the same land (with 30 hours of volunteer service.) Early bird registration is $50 off through July 31.
• Registration deadline is August 14.
• Non-Volunteer option also available along with scholarship opportunities upon request.

For more information and to register, visit Land Steward Training 2026 | OSU Extension Service or contact Eugene Wier, Land Steward Coordinator, at eugene.wier@oregonstate.edu or by calling (541) 930-8416