Camassia Preserve Currently Closed Due To COVID-19
Following Governor Brown's "Stay Home, Save Lives" Executive Order and wanting to help limit the spread of COVID-19, we have made the difficult decision to close our preserves from 03/23/2020 until further notice. While getting outside for a walk, run or hike in an uncrowded area can help keep us both physically and mentally healthy during this trying time if social distancing guidelines are followed, it can be nearly impossible to stay the recommended six feet away from others on narrow trails. Due to large crowds in close proximity in parks and on trails, we are acting consistently with Oregon State Parks and closing our preserves to the public for the time being.
Please follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter or visit us at nature.org/oregon for ways to engage with nature and stay connected with us from home.
What Makes Camassia Special
Named for the common camas (Camassia quamash) which profusely blooms here in April and early May, this preserve hosts more than 300 plant species.
The rocky plateau was exposed 12,000- 19,000 years ago when the Bretz Floods poured down the present Columbia River Gorge and far into the Willamette Valley. The floods swept soil and vegetation from parts of the valley and deposited granitic boulders (called "glacial erratics") from as far away as Canada.
What We Have Done/Are Doing
TNC volunteers are restoring Oregon white oak woodlands by removing invasive Douglas-fir trees. Populations of the rare white rock larkspur are monitored by TNC ecologists. Researchers also monitor water quality and study ways to minimize the impacts of urban development on the preserve's hydrology.
During spring and summer, volunteers lead guided hikes and teach visitors about the ecology of the preserve. Additionally, teams of volunteers work to eradicate invasive, non-native Scot's Broom from the grassland, and English ivy and Himalayan blackberry from the woodlands. West Linn High School ecology students use the preserve as an outdoor classroom and help keep it litter-free.