Bullfrogs are a major reason why young turtles are not surviving. In some areas, the eat 100 percent of young turtles. You can control them by letting ponds dry up in late summer, scooping bullfrog egg masses out of the water, trapping tadpoles or gigging adults. Be very careful that you don't harm the native frogs or salamanders or their eggs. Ask for help in identification before you start! Call the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife or your county Soil and Water Conservation District. Here's some contact information:

Your local Soil and Water Conservation District:

- East Multnomah County Soil and Water Conservation District: 503-222-SOIL or www.emswcd.org
- West Multnomah County Soil and Water Conservation District: 503-238-4775 or www.westmultconserv.org
- Clackamas County Soil and Water Conservation District: 503-656-3499 or www.cc-swcd.org
- Tualatin Soil and Water Conservation District: 503-681-0953 or www.swcd.net

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife: Tim Friesen(503) 947-6232.

Lisa DeBruyckere
May 17, 2008, 11:26 a.m.