New natural area protects water quality, provides important wildlife habitat
Metro continued efforts to protect land along Johnson Creek and the Springwater Corridor trail last week with the acquisition of 5.6 acres on Southeast Telford Road, just south of Gresham.
The property includes more than 1,000 feet along Johnson and Sunshine creeks, which support Chinook, Coho, steelhead and cutthroat trout.
Forests of alder, cottonwood and scattered Douglas fir trees protect and improve water quality in the creeks. Because this sort of riparian habitat has decreased significantly statewide, it receives special attention in the Oregon Conservation Strategy, a blueprint for protecting native fish and wildlife. Riparian areas in Western Oregon support a wide diversity of animals, including more than 200 bird species.
"The wildlife that makes this region so special will continue to have a home here, thanks to the protection of natural areas like this one," said Metro Council President David Bragdon. "And that's good news for all of us who enjoy the outdoors."
Walkers, joggers and bicyclists pass the property on the Springwater Corridor, which follows Johnson Creek on its path from Gresham to the Willamette River. This regional trail provides easy access to Metro's new natural area, creating the potential for future public use.
The property, which was purchased for $378,000, is adjacent to a two-acre natural area owned by Metro. The 2006 natural areas bond measure has protected a total of 165 acres in the Johnson Creek area.
"Collectively, all those acres have a big impact on the Johnson Creek watershed," said Metro Councilor Rod Park, who represents District 1, in the eastern part of the region where the property is located. "The community has embraced this creek, and cares deeply about its long-term health."
Johnson Creek is one of 27 areas protected by Metro's natural areas bond measure, which was approved by voters in 2006. The program funds land acquisition and capital improvements that protect water quality and fish and wildlife habitat, enhance trails and wildlife corridors, and provide greater connections to nature in urban areas throughout the Portland metropolitan area. For more information, visit www.oregonmetro.gov/naturalareas.
Metro, the regional government that serves 1.5 million people who live in the 25 cities and three counties of the Portland metropolitan area, provides planning and other services that protect the nature and livability of our region.