Paddle + Native Plant Walk at Elk Rock Island 

Join Willamette Riverkeeper, the Native Plant Society of Portland, and North Clackamas Parks and Recreation Department's Tonia Williamson for a paddle and hike to Elk Rock Island as part of Native Plant Month PDX!

WHEN:  Thursday, May 30th from 5:00pm - 8:30pm

WHERE:  Meet at the City of Milwaukie's Boat Ramp in Milwaukie Bay Park

WHY:  If you love to explore the flora and fauna of oak and prairie habitats, Elk Rock Island is a wonderland. 

Elk Rock Island is part of an ancient volcano that erupted 40 million years ago. It's located on the Willamette River just offshore from the City of Milwaukie. The Island is under ownership and management by the City of Milwaukie. Find more information about the park on the City's website.

In 2010 the thirteen-acre island underwent a small oak restoration project to reduce shading of established Oregon white oak trees. Since that time the city has been recruiting volunteers to assist in the monitoring of the unique island oak and prairie plant communities.

That monitoring led to City of Portland staff and volunteers re-discovering more than 20 plant species that are uncommon and rare to Portland. Some of those include Saxifraga occidentallis, Lomatium triternatum, Fritillaria affinis, Piperia elegans, Plagiobothrys figuratus, Gratiola ebracteata. Vernal pools on the island are particularly interesting. City staff have been monitoring unique plants, water quality, and critters in the vernal pools. Each time we visit the island we find several new species! Join us on this trip and help discover more!

DETAILS:  Willamette Riverkeeper will be providing use of canoes, PFD's, and paddles free of charge. No paddling experience is necessary. If you have your own boat and plan to bring it along please let us know when you register. 

Bring warm layers, rain gear, close toed shoes, water, and a snack. If you plan to bring a camera or phone it would be best to have it stored in a water tight dry bag.

 

Register Now!