At nearly 2,000 acres, Metro’s Smith and Bybee Wetlands Natural Area is one of the region’s most important assets. Hidden on all sides by industrial land and commercial development, it provides rare habitat for plants, birds and wildlife and unique opportunities for human interaction with nature. Visitors are often surprised to find the area teeming with beaver, river otter, black-tailed deer, osprey, bald eagles and Western painted turtles living only minutes from downtown Portland. Recognizing the importance of the property to the region, Metro has been working with the Smith and Bybee Wetlands Advisory committee, local partners and the public to develop a comprehensive natural resource management plan.
This plan builds on the legacy of the 1990 natural resource management plan which guided activities at the property for the past 20 years. The comprehensive plan emphasizes the restoration of wildlife habitat, the importance of integrating human experiences and educational opportunities with the natural area and the future connection of the now-closed St. Johns Landfill with the overall property. The 10 year plan is available for review and Metro welcomes your thoughts and feedback.
Comments will be accepted until Friday, Sept. 30 at 5 p.m.