 The 130 acres of land which comprises Miller Woods was bequeathed to Yamhill Soil and Water Conservation District by Frieda Miller in 2003. Frieda and her husband K.T. Miller settled on the property in 1967 after retiring from a career as military contractors in Alaska. Both Frieda and K.T. had a deep appreciation for nature and for active management of their woodland which they managed for timber and wildlife. A full history and tribute on the Millers is being developed and will be posted on this site and be on display at Miller Woods in the future.
Miller Woods is being developed to provide excellent educational and experiential opportunities in a truly stunning setting. It is the districts goal to extend these opportunities to various age segments in the local and extended community. Five educational sites are currently under development. These locations will be networked together with a trail and be used to teach small groups of students information related to soils, water, wildlife, climate, and forestry. As we move forward with developing infrastructure we see many possibilities:
- Senior citizens taking advantage of the graded trails for exercise and renewal.
- Adult open air educational programs to reconnect many with nature.
- Youth organizations hosting field day and classroom activities.
- Teachers finding a place to teach basic concepts and
- A place for teachers and other professionals to receive developmental training
Miller Woods has several small ponds, springs, and streams.
The soil center allows students to explore the properties of soils and clays as they interact with water, mechanical forces and the living world. Water is available nearby and a soil pit reveals that soils that have accumulated over the years at Miller Woods.
Contains 9 soil mapping units
Soils derived from a variety of formations:
- Basalt - Jory (all of proposed 8 ac area)
- Old Landslides - Otte
- Marine Sediments - Willakenzie
- Riparian zones - Wapato
The diverse vegetation types found on the site provide many habitat niches. A private study funded through USDA found potential on Miller Woods for over 150 plant species and over 125 animal species (Flora and Fauna Inc. 2006).
Report a new plant or animal species that you have observed.
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