The Mission of the Willamette River Preservation Trust is to “Conserve the lands and waters of the mid to northern Willamette River Basin, and to provide no cost low impact recreational access for people.”

We purchase land, receive donated land, and steward it for the long-term. The Trust will also work to develop conservation easements over time.

Our principal areas of focus include several river basins from the Santiam River system Northward. The river basins include the Pudding River Basin, the Molalla River Basin, the Clackamas River Basin, the Yamhill River Basin, portions of the Santiam River Basin, and occasional properties outside of this area. Further, our work is both riverine, and upland. Properties along tributaries large and small in each system are of importance, as are lands not adjacent to rivers and creeks.

Over many decades the landscape in the Willamette River Basin has been significantly transformed, often to the detriment of fish, birds, and mammals. Habitats that once sustained a broad array of species are no longer present, or in need of restoration. The Willamette River Preservation Trust (WRT) has a mission to acquire lands from willing sellers, receive donated land that fits our criteria, and where necessary, to restore them.

In many cases these lands also provide recreational opportunities for people to paddle, hike, and explore nature with no cost associated with the visit. Where possible, all WRT lands will provide access for people for passive recreation.