Summer’s Just Getting Started in the Columbia Slough Watershed!

With the first few weeks of summer behind us, we’re excited for even more opportunities to connect with our community in the months ahead! Our mission - to protect and enhance the Columbia Slough and its watershed - continues to guide everything we do. This summer, we’re putting that mission into action through community paddles, trash cleanups, and hands-on education programs.

We’re also thrilled to welcome two new interns to our team: Emma Pooler and Dariana Lopez-Palma! They’ve hit the ground running - supporting the Council’s work, connecting with community members, and helping lead group activities. Be sure to give them a wave when you see them out and about!

Behind the scenes, our team has been hard at work planning and running a variety of programs—from group paddles and runs to CPR and first Aid training. A big shoutout to our Program Coordinator, Liz Coll, who recently led a CPR and First Aid session for 12 Watershed Council volunteers and close partners. Thanks to Liz, we’re helping ensure that all of our programs are safe and welcoming for everyone.

Stay tuned—there’s plenty more to come this summer!

Aves! Birds! And a Paddle on the

Columbia Slough

Únete a una paseo de canoe con Columbia Slough Watershed Council, Ryan Gilpin, Melissa Orozco, y Thomas Meinzen para ver aves en el parque Whitaker Ponds. Este evento es gratuito, abierto para todas las edades, y será en español y ingles.

Join CSWC and birders Ryan Gilpin, Melissa Orzoco, and Thomas Meinzen for a birding paddle at Whitaker Ponds. This free event is open to all ages and will be in Spanish and English.

Where: Whitaker Ponds Nature Park

When: Tuesday, July 8th from 6 - 8 PM

Thank you to the Community 101 Program!

Last month, CSWC was awarded Community 101 Grants from two schools in the watershed. We want to thank NAYA's MNA Community 101 Class and Sitton Elementary's Student Council for supporting CSWC's Trash Cleanup Program! Their support will go a long way in funding our Great Slough Cleanup and Monthly Cleanups, making the Slough a safer and healthier place for all.

Wood Village City Nite Out

Join CSWC and other local organizations at this fun community event! There will be free food, live music, face painting, games, community resources, and more!

Where: Wood Village Baptist Church, 23601 NE Arata Rd

When: Friday, July 18th from 5 - 8 PM



Moore & Wright Island Natural Area

Slough Cleanup, A Conversation with DEQ

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality is presenting updates on the Columbia Slough Sediment Cleanup and the ongoing work near the Moore and Wright Islands Natural Area in a virtual community meeting. Active construction is expected to start July 7, 2025. This meeting is an opportunity to learn more about the current cleanup efforts, hear project updates and ask questions.

Where: Virtual, RSVP to receive Zoom link

When: Wednesday, July 2nd from 2 - 3 PM

Support CSWC through Fred Meyer Rewards!

Support the Council every time you shop. Simply link your Fred Meyer Rewards card. You will still earn your normal rewards, while also earning rewards for the Council!

It's easy! Follow these steps:

• Click the link below
• Search for Columbia Slough Watershed Council, organization number: 83957
• Click enroll, and you’re done! Any future rewards you earn will go to CSWC!