In July of this year, the Greater Oregon City Watershed Council teamed up with Otak, Evergreen Construction, Columbia Helicopters, and Port Blakely to launch an ambitious restoration project on a tributary of the Upper Abernethy Creek watershed.
The Upper Abernethy Creek Large Wood Project is a collaborative effort to improve fish habitat along nearly 4 miles of stream running through Port Blakely’s property—an important step in supporting the long-term health of downstream waterways. Thanks to funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Marine Fisheries Program and from Port Blakely, through a grant administered by the Oregon Wildlife Federation, the project combines multiple strategies for lasting watershed health impacts.
Crews are restoring streamside habitat by planting native trees and shrubs and removing invasive plants like Himalayan blackberry, to create long-term habitat for fish and other wildlife.
This project is a true team effort. The Greater Oregon City Watershed Council organizes the restoration work, bringing together landowners, funders, and watershed restoration experts. The project was supported through NOAA Fisheries, under a special federal program that supports fish habitat restoration. The landowner, Port Blakely, is also a key partner—they’re not only providing access to their land for restoration, but also helping fund the work as part of their long-term commitment to responsible forest management. It’s a great example of what can happen when neighbors, nonprofits, landowners, and agencies all pitch in for a healthier watershed.
Crews are restoring streamside habitat by planting native trees and shrubs and removing invasive plants like Himalayan blackberry, to create long-term habitat for fish and other wildlife.
Large wood was strategically placed via helicopter throughout the creek. This “large wood placement” method is part of a growing wave of restoration efforts across the region—including projects in the Clackamas River and Newell Creek Canyon—that aim to bring back the natural structure, complexity, and resilience of local rivers and streams.
Port Blakely’s long-term Habitat Conservation Plan guides their stewardship across 30,000 acres in northwest Oregon, balancing sustainable forestry with proactive habitat improvements.
Together, these efforts are strengthening local waterways, improving climate resilience, and supporting fish and wildlife for generations to come.
Project Sponsors
If you have questions about our work in Upper Abernethy project please contact Tom Gaskill at tom.gaskill@gocwc.org