Celebrating 75 Years of Collective Action
The Land, The Water, Our Story.
Whether you grow food, plant trees, or just love your backyard, you’re part of this.
Small actions. Local roots.
Big difference.
From its founding in 1950 to prevent soil loss on local farms, EMSWCD has grown into a trusted community partner serving nearly 700,000 residents across urban neighborhoods, working farms, and forested landscapes east of the Willamette River.Â
Today, EMSWCD supports urban residents, farmers, and local organizations with free resources, technical support, and education, so that everyone has what they need to nurture healthy soil, clean water, thriving habitats, and vibrant communities.
We believe our communities thrive when we support the people who care for our environment. A healthy landscape not only sustains wildlife, agriculture, and clean water, it also brings people together, improves mental and physical health, and helps create a future where everyone can thrive.
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In honor of our 75th anniversary, we’re taking time to celebrate what makes our efforts worthwhile: the land, the water, and the people who care for them.
We’re honoring that legacy through a season of events and highlights designed to bring neighbors together, uplift stories of conservation in action, and inspire hope for the future. Whether you’ve joined a workshop, grown a native garden, farmed with care, or simply love the outdoors, we invite you to celebrate with us.
This is your land, your water, and your story. Let’s write the next chapter together.
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Thank you to all who celebrated with us at the Community Block Party!
What a day! On Saturday, September 20, 2025, the EMSWCD Office came alive for our 75th Anniversary block party!
We had live music filling the air, hands-on activities for all ages, tasty food & treats, and so many surprises along the way. It was amazing to celebrate this milestone with our community – thanks to everyone who came out and made it unforgettable!
Celebrating Our Past, Cultivating Our Future
Our History & Our District
Explore the history of EMSWCD and how we got our start. From forests to farms, neighborhoods to natural areas – see how the district has changed over time, and the people who have helped shape it.
EMSWCD 75áµ—Ê° Celebration Legacy Film: The Land, The Water, Our Story
Discover how EMSWCD and the community have worked together to protect and care for East Multnomah – past, present, and future.
Your Stories, Your Impact
Celebrating the people behind the progress.
From backyard gardeners to seasoned farmers, from community champions to dedicated District employees and volunteers – we’re spotlighting the folks who make East Multnomah bloom.Â
