Tualatin River Watershed Council

The Tualatin River Watershed Council is a nonprofit organization founded in 1993 by local residents to improve the health of the Tualatin River watershed in Oregon. The Council is a collaborative partnership of individuals and organizations working together to enhance water quality and habitat conditions within the watershed.

Mission and Activities

The Council's mission is to foster community stewardship and promote sustainable practices within the watershed. It achieves this by coordinating efforts with private and public sector partners to maximize benefits for the environment and local communities. Key activities include habitat restoration projects and educational initiatives aimed at preserving natural resources.

Structure and Governance

The Council comprises 23 stakeholder representatives who collectively advocate for watershed sustainability. It serves as a forum for local, state, and federal agencies to collaborate on natural resource management, ensuring that local communities have a voice in decision-making processes.

Location and Watershed Characteristics

The Tualatin River watershed spans approximately 712 square miles across several counties in Oregon, including Washington, Clackamas, Multnomah, Tillamook, and Yamhill. The watershed is significant for its role in providing drinking water for about 400,000 people and supporting diverse land uses such as urban development, agriculture, and forestry.

Environmental Importance

The watershed plays a crucial role in supporting local ecosystems, including wildlife habitats and wetlands. It is also an important recreational resource, with activities like canoeing and fishing popular among residents and visitors.

Funding and Partnerships

The Council's work is supported by grants, matching funds from partners, and community contributions. It collaborates with various organizations to implement projects aimed at protecting and restoring the watershed's ecosystem.

History and Original Inhabitants

The area was originally inhabited by the Tualatin Band of the Kalapuya Native Americans, who ceded their lands through treaties. Today, the Council acknowledges and respects the cultural heritage of these indigenous peoples while working towards sustainable watershed management.