Local trap shooting teams help build fencing at the Elkhorn Wildlife Area
By Garrett Christensen on Monday, June 15th, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
NORTH POWDER – The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) got a helping hand recently in building new buck and pole fencing in the Elkhorn Wildlife Area. On Sunday, June 7, 2026, local trap team shooters from the Union High School, La Grande High School, Eastern Oregon University, and the Union/Wallowa County Chapter of the Oregon Hunter’s Association pitched in to install the fencing around an Aspen stand in the wildlife area.
According to information from head of the Union-Wallowa OHA, Morgan Olson, the 3,500ft buck and pole enclosure is, “designed to allow aspen regeneration and expansion, while improving habitat for wildlife.” ODFW Provided all supplies, including breakfast and a “hearty BQ lunch for the volunteers.”
In addition, the OHA chapter reimbursed the local trap shooters for their efforts by making donations to their individual teams. As highlighted written by Olson:
“Youth Trap Shooting teams have become quite popular in the area at both the High School and Collegiate levels. Several of the Trap Shooting Team members have competed at the State and National level with tremendous results. This project was a great example of hunters, shooters, and ODFW working together to improve habitat for wildlife.”
The fencing can be seen near the Pilcher Creek Reservoir, simply look straight north. For anyone else looking to volunteer, Elkhorn Wildlife Area Manager Dan Marvin has several projects already scheduled where volunteers can assist.
