As rains begin to fall, stormwater accumulates as run-off from surface streets bringing pollution. Healthy watersheds can filter that pollution, keeping it out of downstream habitats.
The riparian forests in our healthy watersheds intercept rain droplets before they hit the soil, reducing erosion and slowing down the water returning it to area groundwater.
All of these features contribute to a healthy stream system, cooling the water, providing shade, and low-sediment loads. Our local coho and Pacific lamprey appreciate it.
The Greater Oregon City Watershed Council works with public partners and private landowners to conserve, enhance, and protect the watersheds that surround us. Through this work, we develop and implement restoration plans, survey and assess stream health, and assist private and public landowners in enhancing riparian habitats.
We are a non-regulatory, non-governmental group maintaining a balance of watershed interests. The council seeks information, makes recommendations, and provides advice concerning the natural resources of the watershed and its restoration.
During the summer of 2025, a team of restoration practitioners working together completed a project that has been over a decade in development. The Greater Oregon City Watershed Council, working in partnership with landowner Port Read more…
Oregon City, Ore. – The Greater Oregon City Watershed Council (GOCWC) is working with local, state, and federal funders to improve habitat for native salmon, trout, and lamprey in the upper reaches of Abernethy creek Read more…
Andrew completed his first restoration project when he was 15 helping fence off a wetland in Tualatin. Since then, his love for plants and local ecology has only grown. After studying terrestrial and freshwater ecology Read more…