Council mission
To foster better stewardship and understanding of the Lower Columbia River Watershed resources in Columbia County, coordinate, cooperate and try to deal with issues in advance of resource degradation, encourage restoration of natural processes and functions where feasible, and help ensure sustainable watershed health, functions, and uses.
Stewarding natural systems where land, river, and estuary meet.
Our work protects and restores the Lower Columbia River Watershed for the benefit of ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
What is a Watershed?
Everyone lives in a watershed! A watershed is an area of land that is drained by a distinct stream or river system and is usually separated from other watersheds by the crest of hills or mountains.
Watersheds have many landscape types, including upland areas extending from ridge tops down to streamside areas which include wetlands, lakes, streams, and rivers. In a well-functioning watershed, vegetation and wetlands intercept falling rain (and snow), slow the flow of that water as it moves through the stream system, remove pollutants, and allow the water to percolate into the ground to recharge groundwater. This creates clean water and natural stream filtration which provides habitat for fish and wildlife.
Watershed Councils
Rooted in place. Guided by stewardship.
Watershed Councils are locally organized, voluntary, non-regulatory groups established to improve the condition of watersheds in their local area. We offer free assistance for local landowners seeking to protect, restore, and enhance natural systems.
Watershed councils offer local residents the opportunity to build a culture of stewarding land and water in this place we share. We work in partnership for clean cool water and healthy habitats from headwaters to the Columbia River.