Westmoreland Park’s grand reopening and salmon celebration
October 27, 2014
On Saturday, Nick and fellow Portlanders gathered to celebrate the newly renovated Westmoreland Park and restoration of Crystal Springs Creek.
The Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) was proud to partner with Portland Parks & Recreation on the renovation and restoration project. Crystal Springs Creek runs through Westmoreland Park.
The project included converting a duck pond into a wetland, removing nine culverts, adding walkways, planting nearly 2000 native plants and trees, and much more!
One of the objectives was to restore salmon habitat, and thanks to BES and Parks’ collaborative efforts, salmon are back in the city! Crystal Springs Creek is now a safe, flourishing home for Coho salmon and other critters.
Saturday’s event had family-friendly activities, tours, and even a 29-foot long salmon display! The Grand Ronde and Siletz Native American tribes also participated in the event, with blessings, cultural songs, dance, and food cooked in their delicious, traditional ways.
Children also got to enjoy Portland’s first Nature Play Area! Part of Westmoreland Park’s reconstruction, the unique playground encourages children to use their creativity and imaginations while interacting with nature.
It also serves as a great location for local education and child development programs.
Check out the beautiful Westmoreland Park! And while you’re there, try to spot a Coho salmon as they swim upstream. It’s their spawning season.
Visit BES’ website for more information about the project