Migrating salmon and steelhead in the Columbia and Willamette Rivers rely on Portland’s rivers and streams during their journeys to and from the ocean. Portland’s waterways provide critical habitats salmon need to rest, grow, and even spawn.

Salmon have been a crucial part of the ecosystem of the Pacific Northwest for thousands of years. Salmon once thrived in the region, but loss of habitat, decreased water quality, and impassable culverts led to declines in salmon populations. Environmental Services is playing a leading role in collaborative regional efforts to improve water quality and watershed conditions for salmon. Because of this work, salmon are returning to Portland. Click here to watch a video of salmon spawning in Crystal Springs Creek in Southeast Portland.