The beautiful Willamette, just down stream of Junction City.

Hello Folks -

   

The past month has been very busy for WR, though I could say that for most every month for our organization. We have been engaged in issues related to the Portland Harbor Superfund site (as well as other issues), working to analyze the best cleanup options for the river. We also provided information to the general public about key contaminants. Our technical expert, Peter DeFur, provided a good presentation at our recent River Pub which attracted over 100 people. WR will continue with these events in the months ahead (see announcement below for the next in the series).

 

Some of the Potentially Responsible Parties (PRPs) have created a PR campaign, which I have written about before, to "educate" people about the Superfund site and other aspects of the Willamette. While public understanding of what it will take to provide a clean and healthy river has merit, in my view the approach that has been taken by these entities is not the best use of the over $500k they have spent to date. It seems to us that any effort designed by a Potentially Responsible Party (an entity with a legal obligation to help clean up the Harbor), to educate the general public, should be done in the right way.

 

This means such educational efforts by those responsible for cleaning up the pollution should be done carefully, and with the support of many partners - even those with differing views of the best approach to eliminating the pollution. To date, employees of the PRPs have participated directly in this "education" effort - some of the same employees fighting hard to seek certain outcomes in the cleanup that are counter to Willamette Riverkeeper and others.

 

DEMAND a Clean River- she deserves it! (KR)

In a recent meeting with some of these parties, I asked these entities if they believe the public needs to be educated, would they consider handing over such an effort, in its entirety, to a neutral 3rd party. Such an entity could be an unaffiliated university that maintains broad credibility and scientific expertise. Included in such an effort would have to be a broadly representative group of stakeholders overseeing it, from Willamette Riverkeeper to other organizations. Instead, what we have today are representatives of the PRPs directing the show.

 

Such an effort could present the "facts" that are known about the contaminants, and approaches to deal with them. The general public could then use this information to provide input, as the final Cleanup Plan is developed, on the best ways to deal with contaminated sediment over the long-term. In our view, based on our understanding of the long-term risk, it makes sense to start with the approach of removing contaminants from the river environment. 

 

We will see how this industry-led process continues. Will they modify their approach or will it continue to be business as usual?

 

See you along the river. 

 

Travis

  

Riverkeeper & Executive Director 

 

 

Volunteers Needed! Sign up now for Spring Restoration Events...

 

What: Plant Monitoring on Elk Rock Island 

When: Wednesday 5/9, Tuesday 5/15, Wednesday 5/23, 9:00AM - 1:00PM

 

Details: Elk Rock Island Natural Area is located on the Willamette River just offshore from the City of Milwaukie boat ramp, south of Portland. This unique site is owned and managed by Portland Parks and Recreation. Willamette Riverkeeper, Portland Parks & Recreation and the Bureau of Environmental Services are seeking volunteers with knowledge of native plant communities to assist with monthly monitoring of native plants monitoring on Elk Rock Island. 

Volunteers will meet at the Jefferson St. Boat Ramp in Milwaukie and then paddle out to the island. Come prepared for a field day rain or shine! Long sleeves and boots are highly recommended. To register, email marci@willametteriverkeeper.org.  

 

 

What: Paddle to Preserve Ross Island

When: Saturday, 5/19, 8:30AM - 12:30PM

 

Details: Spend your morning surveying for wildlife on Ross Island in partnership with Portland Parks & Recreation-City Nature and the Friends of Ross Island. No scientific experience is required, only enthusiasm! This is a great opportunity to learn more about the plants and animals that currently call the island home. We will gather prepared to paddle by Willamette Riverkeeper's canoes in the Portland Boathouse parking lot, near the gravel lot and East Side esplanade. 

 

Use your own canoe or kayak, or reserve a spot in a canoe for $10 per person. To register, email Marissa.Dorais@portlandOregon.gov

 

 

What: Oaks Crossing Restoration Work Party 

When: Wednesday, 5/23, 5:30PM - 7:30PM

 

Details: With the long spring days, join us for an evening work party at this small natural area adjacent to Sellwood Park. We will spend a few hours removing ivy and garlic mustard. We will gather by the picnic tables. To register, email marci@willametteriverkeeper.org.

 

 

 

 

photos: View from Elk Rock Island, MK (top), View from Ross Island, KR (middle), Young ivy pullers at Oak's Crossing, MK (bottom)