April 28, 2015

The Spokane Street Neighbors, along with local volunteers, have been hard at work making Crystal Springs Creek more healthy and vibrant. 

Crystal Springs is major tributary of Johnson Creek in Southeast Portland. It’s an important habitat for salmon, birds, and other wildlife. 

With the support of a Bureau of Environmental Services (BES) Native Plant Mini Grant, volunteers planted 350 native plants and shrubs, as well as 12 native trees along Crystal Springs. 

Native Plant Mini Grants are part of the Community Watershed Stewardship Program. Mini grants provide a great way to help start or maintain projects in our local waterways.

Crystal Springs Creek has a new life, thanks to a major restoration project managed by BES and Portland Parks & Recreation – and supported by neighbors like the Spokane Street Neighbors! The project enhanced conditions of the creek to improve water quality. In addition to planting native trees and shrubs, crews also restored a wetland area, removed nine culverts, and added better walkways around the sensitive natural area.

Last week, staff from BES and Parks accepted the Sustainable Parks, Recreation and Open Space Project award from the American Planning Association for Crystal Springs’ transformation.

Thank you to the Spokane Street Neighbors and all the volunteers for looking after Crystal Springs! 

Check out BES’ website to learn more.