Anyone who has lived near an urban stream knows that it can be both a blessing and a curse. Walking in the cool shade of mature trees, and spotting birds, trout, beaver and deer just minutes from home is rejuvenating and good for our physical and mental health. Easy access to nature is one of the reasons that so many of us choose to live along rivers and streams.

Unfortunately, the same creek that provides refuge in summer can also threaten our homes, businesses and roads with flooding in the winter. Come wintertime, thousands of people who live along Johnson Creek worry about flooding, sometimes checking stream levels multiple times per day. Many people also pay for flood insurance, which in some cases can cost as much as property taxes.

On Saturday, October 8, the City of Portland, in partnership with State Representative Jeff Reardon, local non-profit Green Lents, and many other organizations, are hosting an event called Life in the Floodplain for Portland residents who are grappling with the stress of flooding and flood insurance.

Groups including American Red Cross and the National Flood Insurance Program will provide information and tools to help you:

•             Understand flood insurance,

•             Reduce utility bill costs,

•             Learn about property improvements to reduce flood insurance costs,

•             Prepare for the next winter flood,

•             Learn about grants available to local businesses,

•             Get involved in local community projects,

•             Join the local Neighborhood Emergency Team,

•             And register for emergency alerts.

There will be free food, raffle prizes, and fun arts and crafts and nature play for children. We hope you can join us!

Event: Life in the Floodplain

When: Saturday, October 8, at 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Where: Zenger Farm, 11741 SE Foster Road, Portland, OR 97266

More info: www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/LifeInFloodplain