This summer marks five years since completing the Tryon Creek Iron Mountain Streambank Restoration and Sewer Maintenance Project in Southwest Portland. We are excited to share some photos showing the dramatic changes that have taken place along this part of Tryon Creek. 

The Iron Mountain Project is located just upstream of the Iron Mountain Bridge in Tryon Creek State Natural Area. In 2008 an exposed sanitary sewer line along Tryon Creek posed a threat of leaking sewage into the stream.

The photos above show the exposed sewer infrastructure, eroding stream banks, and invasive plants contributing to problems there.

Environmental Services’ project protected the sewer infrastructure, restored stream bank conditions, and enhanced 200 feet of stream and over three acres of habitat. The project enhanced stream and wetland functions to benefit threatened salmon and other native fish and wildlife.

The photo to the left shows the same spot, just after construction.  Look for the large fir tree trunk in the background of each photo for comparison.

Now, five years later, the stream bank is stable and native plants have filled in the area.  It may look like a jungle, but this is a healthier stream!

Learn more about Tryon Creek and other projects we’re doing to improve conditions in the watershed.

Check out activities, events, and ways to get involved with the Friends of Tryon Creek.