Astoria approves $68,500 Springboard Forestry contract to steward Bear Creek Watershed

The Astoria City Council on Monday approved a $68,500 contract with Springboard Forestry to continue forest stewardship work in the Bear Creek Watershed, a city source of drinking water.

City manager Spence told the council the contract follows an annual operating plan and covers three principal elements: forest stewardship including strategic timber harvest, a forest road inventory, and assistance on a proposed carbon project. "Bear Creek Watershed is a critical asset to the city of Astoria for providing high quality drinking water," Spence said during the presentation.

Ben Hayes, the contracted forester, answered a brief technical question about revenues and explained the balance between timber sales and carbon revenues. Councilor Davis moved to authorize the contract; Councilor Mozzarella seconded and the motion carried on voice vote.

Staff noted the contract continues previously contracted services (the city has worked with the forester since 2015) and said the work supports long‑term water-quality protections and potential future revenue streams tied to carbon projects. The council did not request further public comment on the item.