Clackamas River - Pollution

Pollution

In March 2008, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) released a report entitled "Pesticide Occurrence and Distribution in the Lower Clackamas River Basin, Oregon, 2000–2005." It details pesticide pollution in the lower mainstem Clackamas River, its tributaries, and in pre- and post-treatment drinking water.

In all, 63 pesticide compounds: 33 herbicides, 15 insecticides, 6 fungicides, and 9 pesticide degradates were detected in samples collected during storm and nonstorm conditions. Fifty-seven pesticides or degradates were detected in the tributaries (mostly during storms), whereas fewer compounds (26) were detected in samples of source water from the lower mainstem Clackamas River, with fewest (15) occurring in drinking water.

The study concluded that "Given their frequent and widespread occurrence, especially during storms, pesticides have the potential to affect aquatic life and the quality of drinking water derived from the lower river," and laid out areas for further study.

Since its inception, the Down the River Clean Up has involved more than 1,800 volunteers and removed almost twenty tons of trash from the Clackamas River! A flotilla of volunteers will raft, kayak, tube, SCUBA, or canoe down a fifteen-mile stretch of the Clackamas, removing any trash it may encounter along the way to preserve and protect the beautiful and bountiful river.

Sponsors and partners include Clackamas River Water Providers, KEEN Footwear, Next Adventure, REI, Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt, eNRG Kayaking, Adventure Without Limits, Natural High Rafting, Outward Bound, Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board, Clackamas County, Metro, SOLV and many more.