Johnson Creek Restoration, Portland, Oregon

Johnson Creek in Portland Oregon faces frequent nuisance flooding events due to urbanization and development-caused degradation. The city of Portland began purchasing vulnerable properties and moving people out of the floodplain, in order to begin reconnecting Johnson Creek to its floodplain and restoring wetland habitat. This project restored 63 acres of wetland and floodplain habitat and over half a mile of the creek, creating critical habitat for the endangered Coho and Chinook salmon and steelhead trout. The project also added woody debris, and planted thousands of native trees, grasses, shrubs, and wetland plants. This restoration reduced flooding, protects infrastructure, provides recreational opportunities, and supports wildlife.