Grant Butte Natural Area grows

photo credit: Jim Labbe

The Grant Butte Natural Area just got bigger!

Thanks to a recent collaboration between EMSWCD and Metro, an additional 15 acres adjoining the existing Grant Butte Natural Area was acquired for wildlife habitat and public open space uses. This acquisition adds to the existing 88 acre natural area, providing a significant expanse of natural open space for the residents of East Portland and the City of Gresham.

“We are excited to build upon our prior partnership with Metro to further enhance this community asset,” said EMSWCD Board Chair Rick Till. “These types of collaborations are critical to protecting the important natural resources that make our area such a special place.”

“Metro is proud to support the purchase of the property with $210,000 from the natural areas bond measure voters approved in 2006,” said Jonathan Blasher, Parks and Nature director. “The new acquisition at Grant Butte Wetlands will help protect clean water, restore fish and wildlife habitat, and provide people with opportunities to enjoy nature close to home.”

The land will be owned and managed by Metro as part of their natural areas portfolio. Metro will also engage the community in a public planning process to explore possibilities for expanding public access at the site.

EMSWCD managed and funded this transaction through its Land Legacy Program. The Land Legacy Program works to ensure the sustainability of the local agricultural economy by ensuring that high quality farmland remains available for use by current and future farmers. It also helps support conservation partners on projects that conserve significant natural resources or improve access to open natural spaces.

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