The 80-mile-long Tualatin River isn’t like other rivers in the Northwest. Small, slow, and sensitive, it needs an extra big dose of love and care, which is why we operate under some of the strictest water quality standards in the nation and consider the entire watershed when managing water resources. The Tualatin River is an essential component to the way of life in Washington County, providing drinking water, agricultural irrigation, and recreation opportunities. It’s also home to native wildlife like beavers, turtles, salmon, bobcats, elk, and more!
But this isn’t a one-way relationship. While the river provides so much for us, the actions we take in our daily lives can impact how healthy the river is. When it’s unhealthy, our communities may suffer.
There are plenty of ways you can show your love for the river, to help keep this symbiotic relationship healthy and strong.
- Plant native species: Native plants are adapted to our climate and soils. This means they require less water and maintenance. Native plants grow deep, complex root systems that hold soil in place and prevent erosion. Adding native plants is important in urban and suburban areas where wildlife habitats have been broken up by urban growth.
- Be smart about disposal: From pet waste to household chemicals to the leaves in your yard, there’s a proper way to dispose of it. When it rains, many of these items can become part of stormwater runoff that can clog drains or contaminate the nearest stream.
- Consider stream-friendly solutions: Choosing natural home and yard care methods not only keeps local waterways healthier, but it can also be easier and cheaper.
- Learn to live with nature: Oregon is home to diverse and abundant wildlife, which poses many benefits but also sometimes challenges when it comes to interactions with humans. There are usually two reasons “critters” may be attracted to your home: they were driven from their own habitat and are searching for food, water, and warmth, or something in your home is attracting them. If you do have an issue, never attempt to handle wildlife yourself.
- Learn about water: Be an ambassador for the Tualatin River Watershed and expand your knowledge. The Tualatin River Watershed Navigator has a wide range of resources to help you live a safe, healthy, and informed life while supporting the vitality of the river.
Show Your Love
The watershed plays an important role in how we live. Show your love for the river by volunteering for community planting events. Native trees prevent erosion, shade the water to keep it cool, and provide habitat for wildlife. Check out the Friends of Trees volunteer calendar to find a planting event near you.
