Paul DeMaggio’s partnership, technical expertise, and commitment to landowners have made a lasting difference in Jackson County. Discover why NRCS Oregon recognized his contributions at this year’s annual awards ceremony.

At this year’s annual awards ceremony during the CONNECT Conference in Seaside, Oregon, Paul DeMaggio, P.E., was recognized by Natural Resources Conservation Service Oregon for his outstanding service and long-standing contributions to conservation in Jackson County.

Paul serves as a conservation planner and engineer with the Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District, where he works directly with local landowners to develop practical, effective solutions that strengthen both agricultural operations and natural resources.

For nearly 15 years, Paul has partnered closely with landowners and conservation professionals to deliver high-quality projects across the region, earning a reputation for technical excellence, reliability, and a genuine commitment to the people he serves.

“Paul DeMaggio, P.E. has been an exemplary partner and contributor to the overall conservation efforts and outcome on private lands in Jackson County for close to 15 years.” Wrote Peter Winnick in his nomination.

Through his work, Paul has helped transform how water is managed on working lands.

Over time, those results have added up in a big way. Paul’s work has supported the conversion of more than 1,000 acres from flood irrigation to efficient sprinkler systems, paired with irrigation water management practices that maximize conservation benefits. These improvements have led to measurable gains in both water quality and water availability across Jackson County, while also improving production quality and yields for local producers.

Just as important as the technical work is Paul’s approach to working with people.

“Additionally, he regularly provides high quality customer service in the planning and implementation phases of the projects.,” Winnick shared. “His direct customer service helps landowners to understand and feel comfortable with the projects, which helps to ensure quality results and long-term stewardship of the projects.”

That trust helps ensure projects are not only successful, but sustainable for the long term.

Paul’s impact extends beyond irrigation systems.

“Paul has also designed and helped NRCS participants install many scores of Livestock Watering Systems that helped facilitate prescribed grazing management, improved animal health, reduced erosion, and protected water quality.”

His contributions also reach beyond individual properties to larger, collaborative efforts that benefit entire landscapes.

“Beyond work with individual NRCS producers, Paul has made significant contributions to partnered landscape infrastructure projects funded under PL-566.”

Taken together, Paul’s work reflects the kind of dedication and partnership that drives meaningful conservation forward.

“The longevity, quality, and quantity of Paul’s work has been immeasurable to the stature and success of both JSCWD and NRCS in Jackson County,” Winnick concluded.

This recognition from NRCS Oregon places Paul among a distinguished group of conservation professionals and partners across the state who have been honored for their lasting impact on working lands. Each year, NRCS Oregon recognizes individuals and organizations whose efforts go above and beyond in delivering conservation solutions, highlighting the importance of collaboration, technical expertise, and long-term stewardship.

Paul’s award reflects not only his individual contributions, but also the strength of locally led conservation through the Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District and its commitment to serving the people and landscapes of Jackson County.

Coming Soon: Partners on the Land

What does successful conservation look like from the people doing the work?

In an upcoming Partners on the Land conversation, Paul DeMaggio and Peter Winnick - longtime collaborators in Jackson County - sit down together to talk about their shared experiences, what makes projects successful, and what landowners should know when getting started.

Watch for the full conversation soon.

Get Help with Your Land

Inspired by Paul’s work?

If you have a project in mind - or a challenge you’re trying to solve on your land, we are here to help.

We provide free, local technical assistance to Jackson County landowners and land managers. Whether you’re looking to improve irrigation efficiency, reduce erosion, or plan for long-term stewardship, our team works with you to develop practical solutions that fit your land and your goals.

Funding Available: Water Quality Initiative

Landowners in Jackson County may also be eligible for financial assistance through the Water Quality Initiative, a collaborative effort between JSWCD (Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District) and NRCS (Natural Resources Conservation Service).

This program provides funding for projects that directly improve water quality in the Rogue River watershed, from irrigation upgrades to erosion control and other conservation practices.

Reach out today to learn more about available funding and how we can support your project.

Medford National Water Quality Initiative - Jackson Soil and Water Conservation District