Brookside Wetland was Environmental Services’ first major flood mitigation project along Johnson Creek. The project included swales for stormwater, the addition of native plants, creation of an overflow pond to store floodwater, and a public park and wildlife-viewing area. Since completion in 1997, neighborhood stewardship and local school usage of the site as part of their natural resource classes have been the cornerstone of this natural area.
Project Goals
- Improve water quality and lower water temperatures in Johnson Creek.
- Improve high-flow conditions to protect against erosion.
- Protect and enhance habitat for endangered salmon and other wildlife.
- Maintain parklike features; continue education and recreation opportunities; and engage with neighbors, schools, local groups, and native communities.
Project Area
The Brookside Wetlands Project site covers 13 acres and is located along SE Foster Road near the intersection of SE 110th Avenue.
Schedule
Our condition assessment of the site is ongoing. Site investigations and design will continue through 2023 with construction possible in 2024.
What’s Happening Now
The existing pond was designed to reduce flooding in the area. However, during high flows, the pond fills before the peak of the flood. This limits the area’s ability to reduce flooding during larger rains.
In addition, during the last 20 years, sediment has collected on the north side of the pond and formed a natural berm that separates the pond from the creek during low-flow conditions. When this happens, the water in the pond can get too warm before it returns to the creek causing creek temperatures to rise. Warm water temperatures are bad for fish. Also, the disconnection can trap salmon in the pond without a chance to return to the creek. The current project will look at ways to solve these problems.
We Want to Hear from You
Environmental Services will inform residents and businesses about project activities and respond to questions and concerns in a timely manner. The following resources will help you stay informed and report concerns:
- Questions: Call 503-865-4300 stating that Brookside Wetlands Project is your area of concern. Outreach staff will return your call by the next business day.
- Sewer Emergency: In the event of a sewer backup or basement flooding, call the Maintenance hotline immediately at 503-823-1700. It is staffed all hours and all days, 24/7.
Project Background
Constructed in 1997, Brookside Wetland was Environmental Services’ first major flood mitigation project along Johnson Creek. The project included swales for stormwater, the addition of native plants, creation of an overflow pond to store floodwater to reduce flooding, and a public park and wildlife-viewing area. Since completion in 1997, neighborhood stewardship and local school usage of the site as part of their natural resource classes have been the cornerstone of this natural area.
Since its construction, Environmental Services and our partners have completed several projects along Johnson Creek. This and other current projects along the creek build upon this past work to reduce the risk of flooding and to improve the health of Johnson Creek for a more resilient Portland.
