April 10, 2026 at 6:00pm. | FREE | Everyone is welcome

Forestry & Natural Resources Extension Forester Jenna Deibel

Community members, landowners, and natural resource enthusiasts are invited to attend an informative presentation, “Got Juniper? Western Juniper Ecology & Management,” featuring juniper ecology expert Jenna Deibel.

This engaging talk will explore why western juniper has expanded so dramatically across the region. Attendees will gain insight into juniper ecology and biology, the key factors driving its spread, and how to distinguish old-growth stands from younger encroachment. The presentation will also cover juniper–water relationships, realistic approaches to rangeland restoration in Central Oregon, and the tree’s role in wildlife habitat. Practical management considerations and potential uses for juniper will be discussed to help land stewards make informed, science-based decisions.

The Western Juniper Story

Western juniper (Juniperus occidentalis) has expanded from 600,000 acres in the 1930s to over 6–10 million acres today, disrupting Oregon’s ecosystems by draining water and crowding out native sagebrush habitat. Oregon State University (OSU) researchers identified that this rapid expansion stems from fire suppression, allowing the tree to dominate landscapes it historically didn’t occupy.

Ecological Impact: Known as a “water thief,” a single large juniper can use up to 30–35 gallons of water per day, reducing streamflow and water availability. This encroachment creates denser, more flammable forests, increasing wildfire risk.
The “Quiet Invasion”: While native to the region, the lack of fire has allowed juniper to dominate areas previously covered by grass and sagebrush, leading to increased soil erosion and reduced habitat for species like the sage grouse.
Impact on Agriculture: OSU research found that western juniper contains labdane acids, which cause premature birth or abortion in pregnant cows, leading to significant cattle losses in Eastern Oregon.
Restoration and Usage: Conservation efforts focus on removing juniper to restore ecosystems. The wood, which is naturally rot-resistant, is now used in vineyards, for flooring, and in furniture, turning a woody invader into an economic resource.

About the Speaker

Jenna Deibel serves as the Central Oregon Forestry and Natural Resources Extension Agent, working across Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson counties, as well as with the Confederated Tribes of Warm Springs. A natural resources generalist, her work focuses on juniper ecology and management, along with broader forest health issues including pests, diseases, and environmental stress.

Join Us April 10th

This presentation offers a valuable opportunity for the community to better understand one of the region’s most pressing land management challenges and to connect with local expertise. For more information, please contact the Bowman Museum at 541-417-3715.