Beyond Oregon City and Carver, nestled among Christmas tree farms, Metro’s Clear Creek natural area serves as a 520-acre haven for wildlife. But, until last week, it lacked an entrance that would allow visitors to explore the landscape.
That's why Metro purchased 61 acres along Springwater Road, which could someday serve as a gateway to the natural area. On a clear day, visitors can see Mount Hood from the property, which includes a historical farmhouse. This new addition also builds on Metro’s work to preserve habitat at Clear Creek; it features a seasonal headwater stream, a forested area and a large field that could be restored to prairie habitat.
Named for the creek that snakes through Clear Creek Canyon, the newly expanded natural area is home to endangered coho and Chinook salmon, as well as deer, coyote, beaver and otter. Brilliant purple camas blooms in the spring; fungi can be found in the fall. Extensive restoration has improved the health of the natural area, where continued work could support salmon and prairie habitat.
Metro began protecting land in the area with a voter-approved 1995 bond measure, which targeted Clear Creek as a place for people to enjoy nature. Last week’s $1.05 million addition, funded by a follow-up 2006 bond measure, makes that vision a real possibility.
For now, Metro is focusing on habitat restoration while providing opportunities to visit through volunteer projects and a partnership with nearby Springwater Environmental Sciences School.