Exploring Wetlands Around Washington County

Koll Center Wetlands, Photo by Cheryl Ames

It’s no accident that Oregon is named “The Beaver State.” Beaver-created wetlands historically laced this entire region. Although nearly half of all wetlands in the mainland US have been destroyed by development, here in Washington County we are lucky to be able to enjoy some remaining wetlands close to home. If you don’t know them already, you have a treat in store. Several wetland preserves offer trails, boardwalks, wildlife viewing platforms, and peaceful places to reconnect with nature. These habitats are constantly changing. Areas that may once have been dry fields or forests gradually become wetter as water collects and native wetland plants take hold. A healthy wetland quickly becomes one of the most biologically rich environments in the region, definitely worth our exploration.

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