March 12, 2014

More than 50,000 trees and shrubs are planted in southwest Portland!

The River View Natural Area is a beautiful 146 - acre forest with seven streams that flow in the Willamette River.  Located between the River View Cemetery and Lewis and Clark College, the lush forest will soon become a recreation destination for nature enthusiasts. 

In 2011, when Nick was Parks Commissioner, the City purchased the River View Natural Area from the River View Cemetery.  The forest is now permanently protected from development, and is an important addition to the Westside Wildlife Corridor.

In the past, invasive species, like English Ivy, wreaked havoc on the forest’s sensitive ecosystems.  Today, thanks to the Bureau of Environmental Services’ Watershed Revegetation Program, Portland Parks & Recreation, and volunteers from the community, invasive species in the River View Natural Area have been reduced by 95%! The program protects water quality, prevents erosion and landslides, and helps restore abundant forests.

Check out the Bureau of Environmental Services’ website for more information.

Photo: Thanks to flickr user SoulRider.222 for the beautiful shot of Mt. Hood from the River View property