Protecting and Restoring the Tualatin

For more than thirty years, Tualatin Riverkeepers (TRK) has been dedicated to protecting and restoring the 79-mile Tualatin River, from its headwaters high on the east slope of Oregon’s Coast Range to its confluence with the Willamette River in West Linn.

TRK works with nonprofits, municipalities, local government and community members to improve water quality throughout the basin. Together they advocate for the health and the protection of the river, implement restoration projects, provide educational opportunities for people of all ages, and ensure that residents and visitors alike enjoy safe, convenient access to the river.

“The best way to get someone to care about this river is to get them on the river,” says Margot Fervia-Neamtzu, who has been with the organization for almost 20 years. “It’s especially important to get young people involved, to help them take those early steps on a lifelong path of stewardship.”

Toward that end, TRK’s Discovery Day has become a summer highlight in the region, as paddlers, many first-timers or families with children, explore the river with special guidebooks, safety boats stationed along the route, and a complimentary shuttle. At Cook Park in Tigard meanwhile, TRK’s summer boat rentals give people the opportunity to get on the water without bringing their own canoe or kayak. 

A long-time Tree for All partner, TRK has played a vital role at Farmington Paddle Launch and Thomas Dairy, among other restoration sites. TRK also offers a wide range of volunteer opportunities, including guiding boat trips, assisting in restoration efforts, and participating in advocacy.