Description
Why It's Important
Featuring extensive habitats that are increasingly endangered in the Willamette Valley, the Willamette Confluence project includes six miles of river corridor, floodplain forest, wetlands, upland oak woodlands and native prairie.
Location
Where the Middle and Coast forks of the Willamette River join, east of Eugene
Size
1,270 acres
Plants at the Preserve
The property's diverse habitats are home to blue wildrye, Siberian springbeauty, Saskatoon serviceberry, incense cedar and more.
Animals at the Preserve
More than 30 native fish and wildlife species considered at risk live here including Chinook salmon, northern red-legged frog, vesper sparrow and western meadowlark, Oregon's state bird.
What the Conservancy Has Done/Is Doing
The Nature Conservancy acquired the property from the Wildish family in 2010. With partners, scientists are developing strategies to reconnect the river to its historic floodplain, control invasive species, restore oak and prairie habitats, implement controlled burns, and accommodate public access compatible with habitat restoration.
Restoration is expected to take the better part of a decade. Eventually the property will be turned over to public ownership.
For now, public visitors are welcome to visit the property on a free guided tour. Volunteer work parties organized by the group are also an opportunity to visit the property and lend a hand to its restoration.
