Greetings!

Happy New Year!

As we step into 2026, I want to pause and share how grateful I am for this community — and for you.

Because of the generosity of so many of you who believe in this work, we not only reached our year-end goal, we surpassed it! Together, we raised $26,294.10 to support the Columbia Slough and the people who care for it.

That support means so much more than a number. It means more moments of connection, curiosity, and belonging across the watershed. Your support allows us to continue offering free youth education, hands-on restoration opportunities, and events that bring people together around our shared watershed. As we begin this new year, we do so with momentum, gratitude, and excitement for what’s ahead.

Thank you for believing in accessible environmental education, community connection, and the power of caring for the place we all call home. We are so honored to have you as part of the Columbia Slough Watershed Council community.

With deep appreciation and hope for the year ahead,



Amanda Gallegos

Executive Director

First Stewardship Saturday of 2026!

Join CSWC and Portland Parks & Recreation as we plant native wildflowers. This will help our efforts to restore one of the few remaining surface creeks flowing into the Columbia Slough!


WHEN: January 31, 10 am - 1 pm

WHERE: Wilkes Creek Headwaters

Join us for Coffee With the Council

Our office will be open for you to stop by and chat. Whether you’re a long-time partner of the Council, interested in getting your organization involved with our work, or a community member, we’d love to meet you. This is also a good opportunity to talk with other local organizations and agencies. Coffee and pastries will be provided! Networking activity will start at 10am.

WHEN: January 29th, 9 am - 12 pm

WHERE: Columbia Slough Watershed Council Office

7040 NE 47th Ave, Portland, OR 97218

UFSQWD Bond Accountability Committee

The Urban Flood Safety & Water Quality District is seeking engaged, community-minded individuals to serve on its Bond Accountability Committee. This is an opportunity to ensure that bond-funded projects meet the goals of the voto-approved tax measure. This committee will help UFSQWD report out on the bond and ensure we’re transparent about the funds.

Please visit the page below to apply for this opportunity.

Portland Harbor Grant Review Committee

The City of Portland's Bureau of Environmental Services is looking for community members and agency partners to serve on the grants review committee.

The review committee is a 20–25-hour commitment between February and March. An overview of important dates can be found here. An honorarium is available for community reviewers, and all meetings are virtual via Zoom. Miranda Mishan, Portland Harbor Community Involvement Coordinator, works to ensure the committee is a positive, welcoming space where a diverse group can come together to make challenging funding decisions. This is a great learning experience for anyone interested in grant-making, making connections in the community, learning about Portland Harbor, or just building some experience.

Interested community members should complete the short form below before 5 pm on January 23rd, 2026, for consideration.