Carli Creek Water Quality and Stream Enhancement Project
Abstract
The innovative Carli Creek Water Quality Project filters harmful pollutants from stormwater runoff from surrounding industrial properties after decades without treatment before it reaches Carli Creek and the Clackamas River, the drinking water source for approximately 360,000 people.
In 2012, Clackamas County Water Environment Services recognized the potential of the property to improve water quality and acquired the former farmland. Pollution in the creek exceeded standards for E. coli, copper, lead and other pollutants, threatening water quality, fish, and public health.
The project restored 1,700 feet of in-stream habitat, reshaped the soils to form new wetland basins, and installed new pipe systems to funnel runoff to the site. 70,000 native plants were planted to capture pollutants, while 83 wood structures were installed to improve fish and wildlife habitat.
The facility ensures a cleaner Clackamas River, protecting endangered fish and shows that a balance between nature and industry is possible.
The project supports Clackamas County priorities, including: building a strong infrastructure; honoring, utilizing and investing in natural resources; and ensuring safe, healthy and secure communities.
Subjects
Water quality, Habitat restoration
Persistent Identifier
https://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/33827
Carli Creek Water Quality and Stream Enhancement Project
The innovative Carli Creek Water Quality Project filters harmful pollutants from stormwater runoff from surrounding industrial properties after decades without treatment before it reaches Carli Creek and the Clackamas River, the drinking water source for approximately 360,000 people.
In 2012, Clackamas County Water Environment Services recognized the potential of the property to improve water quality and acquired the former farmland. Pollution in the creek exceeded standards for E. coli, copper, lead and other pollutants, threatening water quality, fish, and public health.
The project restored 1,700 feet of in-stream habitat, reshaped the soils to form new wetland basins, and installed new pipe systems to funnel runoff to the site. 70,000 native plants were planted to capture pollutants, while 83 wood structures were installed to improve fish and wildlife habitat.
The facility ensures a cleaner Clackamas River, protecting endangered fish and shows that a balance between nature and industry is possible.
The project supports Clackamas County priorities, including: building a strong infrastructure; honoring, utilizing and investing in natural resources; and ensuring safe, healthy and secure communities.
