BYPP By the Numbers: Sea Grant Project - Tillamook Estuaries Partnership

The Backyard Planting Program (BYPP) has been going on for over 20 years and involves planting native species, removing invasives, and installing livestock fencing along riparian zones. One of the biggest questions is how this program has impacted the environment. Environmental restoration is a long-term game, and the biggest benefits will come once mature native trees dominate our riparian areas. Over time, native species provide riparian shading, biodiversity, and bank stabilization, and fencing improves stream quality by reducing bacteria in waterways from livestock. Learn more about the numbers and extent of BYPP’s impact below!

THE DATA

BEFORE AND AFTER RESTORATION

before image of mill creek with caged short plantings in grass

after image of mill creek planting site with tall trees along the riparian zone

We can already see the difference in sites from the reduction in invasives, and the growth and survivability of trees from older sites! Mill Creek before (2011) and after (2026), with plantings shown on the right in both images. 350 trees and 150 shrubs were planted along 3,000 ft of riparian area, encompassing 3.7 acres.

Interested in being involved in the program? Learn more here!