Posts by WMSWCD Admin
Planting for the Future: Adapting our Forests to Climate Change
It has been another warm winter and spring in the Pacific Northwest leading to low mountain snowpack (a third of normal levels) according to NOAA’s National Climate Report for February 2026. Our recent weather patterns continue trends we’ve seen for decades now – the climate is changing and it’s actively shaping our forests. Oregon’s climate…
Read MoreSeeking Candidates for Our Board of Directors
Do you love where you live? Are you interested in protecting natural spaces, plants, and animals in your area? Are you passionate about locally grown food? Do you want to give back to your community? Would you like a say in how tax dollars are spent? If so, West Multnomah SWCD’s Board of Directors could…
Read MoreWelcome to Our 2026 Interns
We are excited to welcome our 2026 interns, who join us for a term from April through early October. They work on a variety of projects, from conservation plans and technical work in the office to site visits and invasives removal in our district. Welcome to the team, Gillian and Gabrielle! They each shared a…
Read MoreFarmers Breakfast & Help with Deer 4/24
What: Farmer BreakfastWhen: April 24, 8-9amWhere: Sauvie Island Grange,14443 NW Charlton Rd, PortlandHow: It’s free! We’re hosting a casual farmer breakfast to bring together local growers to talk with each other and experts, including our soil health expert from West Multnomah SWCD, Scott Gall. Oregon Dept of Fish & Wildlife staff will also be there…
Read MoreNotice of Budget Committee Meeting 4/21
A public meeting of the Budget Committee of the West Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District, Multnomah County, State of Oregon, to discuss the budget for the fiscal year July 1, 2026 to June 30, 2027, will take place on 4/21/2026, at 6-8 PM via Zoom and in person at Tryon Creek Education Pavilion, 11321…
Read MoreEarly Spring 2026 e-Newsletter: Free workshops + native plants = spring win
Spring is right around the corner, and so are so many ways to get your hands in the soil, learn something new, and connect with your community. Whether you want to learn about soil science, harmful weeds, or how to replace your lawn, there’s something for you (and a lot more—Soil School has 10 sessions…
Read MoreRegistration is Open for Soil School 2026
Update: Soil School is on! There were some concerns with the venue leading up to the event, but as of 3/30 those were resolved. Please check your email for details if you are registered. See you Saturday! Registration is now closed for Soil School 2026. There is no on-site registration. Calling all gardeners– from aspiring…
Read MoreWe Want You to Become a Weed Watcher: Event April 15
Last year, we treated over 2,200 patches of invasive weeds on private property in our District. Could you identify pokeweed, spurge laurel, and garlic mustard? What about ludwigia and lesser celandine? As you see leaves popping out of the ground and flowers opening, it’s an exciting time to start thinking about plants. You might recognize…
Read MoreRegistration is Open for Spring 2026 Stormwater Stars Workshops
Stormwater Stars is a landscape improvement and education program that supports managing rainwater where we live, work, and play. By partnering with local residents, small businesses, and community organizations, West Multnomah SWCD’s Stormwater Stars supports the creation of landscapes that slow, soak, and filter stormwater. These improvements also promote healthier soils, enhance the look and…
Read MoreFind Local Produce at Westside Portland CSAs, Markets, and Farms
When you think of greens in our region, you probably think of thick forests, moss, and lovely pollinator gardens. You might not be thinking about lettuce, kale, and fruit trees—but you can get local produce in many different ways if you’re looking to support local farmers and agriculture. Portland CSAs, farmers markets, and farmstands are…
Read MoreWinter 2026 e-Newsletter: Stormwater Stars Opportunities & Open Internships!
Happy 2026! As we move into the new year, we’re excited to share some new opportunities to inspire strong relationships with the land and water. We’re currently accepting applications for an open internship position and welcoming applications to host upcoming Stormwater Stars sites. We’re also excited to welcome a new team member, Jon, to start…
Read MoreWelcome to our new Budget & Fiscal Manager
As the Budget and Fiscal Manager, Jon Clarenbach will play a key role in supporting the District’s financial health and day-to-day operations. He will lead and manage our financial processes with a focus on accuracy, compliance, and transparency, providing hands-on oversight of budgeting, financial reporting, payroll, benefits administration, and related fiscal activities. Through this work, Jon will help ensure…
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