Metro's voter-approved Natural Areas Program started the fall with a flurry of land acquisitions, from the west side of the region to the east side. New natural areas build on Metro's work in several areas that have been focal points of the 2006 natural areas bond measure.
- Metro protected 40 acres in western Multnomah County, expanding an anchor site in the Rock Creek watershed to a total of nearly 160 acres. This large expanse of land, which is nestled along key tributaries, allows Metro to address water quality and habitat needs holistically. The growing natural area is home to large herd of elk.
- A new seven-acre natural area continues protection efforts along Deep Creek, near Boring on the southeast side of the region. The newest addition features a mix of alder, maple, Douglas fir and Western red cedar trees.
- Chehalem Ridge Natural Area grew by 19 acres, bringing this signature property to a total of more than 1,200 acres. The new addition improves management access to the forested natural area near the small town of Gaston, which features views of five Cascade peaks and streams that flow to the Tualatin River.
- A five-acre addition will make it easier for Metro staff to access the southern end of Canemah Bluff Natural Area, which overlooks the Willamette River in historic Oregon City. Metro has worked with neighbors this fall on plans to protect natural resources and fine-tune trails at the natural area, while Oregon City is adding new amenities next door at Canemah Neighborhood Park.
Metro buys land from willing sellers to protect water quality, wildlife habitat and outdoor recreation opportunities.