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Human Access Project

The Human Access Project advocates for the health and accessibility of urban rivers, promoting community engagement and stewardship through education, events, and initiatives that connect people to their waterways.

Down By The River Fundraiser brings our community together to celebrate, protect, and enjoy the Willamette River. Your registration supports The Human Access Project:&nbsp;better river access, cleaner beaches, and safe places to swim for everyone in Portland. Expect good conversations, river stories, and simple ways to get involved with ongoing stewardship. <ul fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;"><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Sign up to reserve your spot</li><li fr-original-style="" style="box-sizing: inherit;">Invite a friend who loves the river 🌿</li></ul>

Down By The River Fundraiser

Recurring harmful algae blooms (cyanobacteria) in the Ross Island Lagoon have emerged as a recurring challenge for river users, public health officials, and environmental managers throughout the Lower Willamette River. Join Dr. Desiree Tullos and the Oregon State University research team as they share the results of nearly a decade of research aimed at understanding the causes of these blooms and identifying science-based solutions to address them. Dr. Tullos will present the project&rsquo;s 30% engineering design, which evaluates options for restoring river circulation through the lagoon, including the creation of one or two new channels connecting the lagoon to the mainstem Willamette River. Modeling indicates that increased flow through the lagoon could substantially reduce water stagnation, improve water quality, decrease conditions that favor harmful algae blooms, and enhance ecological function throughout the system. The 30% design represents the first stage of detailed engineering and provides a roadmap for evaluating feasibility, costs, permitting requirements, and expected outcomes. This work represents the first science-based restoration strategy developed specifically to address recurring harmful algae blooms in the Ross Island Lagoon and their impacts on the Lower Willamette River. The convening will bring together community members, Tribal representatives, regulatory agencies, researchers, conservation organizations, and other stakeholders to review the findings, discuss public health and ecological implications, examine implementation opportunities and challenges, and explore pathways toward long-term restoration of this important urban waterway. Together, we will discuss practical and equitable strategies to reduce harmful algae blooms, improve river health, protect public access and recreation, and advance a healthier, more resilient, and more swimmable Willamette River for future generations. This event is free and open to the public.&nbsp; We anticipate strong community interest and expect the event to reach capacity, so we encourage attendees to reserve tickets early. Thanks to our partners and sponsors - Mult Co, Oregon State University, Alberta Abbey, HAP, EMSWCD, Spirit Mt, Senator Merkley

Clearing the Water: Defeating the Harmful Algae Bloom in Ross Island Lagoon

Join the HAP community for our annual River Lover Cruise on Friday, May 29, 2026, from 2:30&ndash;5:00 PM on board the Portland Spirit. Spend a lively afternoon on the Willamette River; learn about our upcoming work, meet our board and staff, and connect with others who share a commitment to river health and access. This two-hour Willamette River cruise will include complimentary beer from Steeplejack Brewing, wine from Wildwood Mahonia, and light hors d&#39;oeuvres! Thank you to our generous sponsors EMSWCD, On Point CCU, Pepsi, Portland Metro Chamber, Port of Portland, Portland Spirit, Point West Credit Union, Subaru, and Vigor for making this event possible! Boarding begins at 2:30 PM; we will set sail for the river at 3:00 PM.

Human Access Project

Human Access Project

Past events

Past events

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Down By The River Fundraiser

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Clearing the Water: Defeating the Harmful Algae Bloom in Ross Island Lagoon

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River Lover Cruise

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Past events

Past events

View event

Down By The River Fundraiser

View event

Clearing the Water: Defeating the Harmful Algae Bloom in Ross Island Lagoon

View event

River Lover Cruise

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Human Access Project