Water is an essential component in our work to protect water quality for all people and improve habitat for a wide variety of plants and wildlife, particularly fish. The Conservation District is deeply involved in restoring Sturgeon Lake on Sauvie Island, which is critical habitat to fish, birds, and waterfowl, not to mention a large number of amphibians and other critters. West Multnomah Conservation District is the local sponsor of the $7.5 restoration project, conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The District, along with many private and public partners, is still raising money for the project through the Save Sturgeon Lake Campaign, operated by our partner, Oregon Wildlife.
The District also manages the Healthy Streams Program which works to improve degraded stream banks and riparian areas. The program removes invasive weeds along streams, plants native species and takes other measures to improve water quality for fish and other wildlife. The District also monitors water quality in a number of streams and creeks in its jurisdiction.
The following are some valuable resources on programs or issues related to water quality.
Sturgeon Lake Restoration Project
Floating homes and marinas:
Septic and well water:
- The Private Well Class – Free online education and resources for well owners
- Clean Water Loan Program for septic repair/replacement
