Kellogg Dam Removal Marks a New Era for Clackamas County
Table of Contents
- 1. Kellogg Dam Removal Marks a New Era for Clackamas County
- 2. A Legacy of Obstruction
- 3. Restoring Nature’s Flow
- 4. Transforming the Landscape
- 5. A Brighter Future for the Community
- 6. Conclusion
- 7. How will the $10 million grant be allocated to diffrent aspects of the Kellogg Dam removal project?
In a historic move, the 176-year-old Kellogg Dam in Clackamas County, Oregon, is set too be demolished, paving the way for ecological restoration and community recreation. The project, funded by a $10 million grant, aims to revitalize kellogg Creek and its surrounding areas, creating a healthier habitat for wildlife and new opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.
A Legacy of Obstruction
Built in 1858,the Kellogg Dam has long been a barrier to fish migration and a source of stagnant water. For over a century, it has hindered the natural flow of Kellogg Creek, impacting local ecosystems. “It’s basically been limiting fish passage and backing up stagnant water for 125 years,” said Megan Hilgart, Marine habitat Resource Specialist for the NOAA Restoration Center. The dam ceased operations in 1898, but its presence has continued to disrupt the environment.
Restoring Nature’s Flow
The removal of the dam is part of a larger restoration initiative that includes dismantling an aging bridge on Highway 99, which sits atop the structure. Neil Schulman, director of the North Clackamas Watersheds Council, explained, “What we’re going to do is remove this dam, replace the earthquake-vulnerable bridge that’s resting on top of it, and allow salmon and steelhead to get into Kellogg Creek.” This effort will reconnect the creek to the Willamette River, enabling fish populations to thrive once more.
Transforming the Landscape
Located just above where Kellogg Creek meets the Willamette River, the dam has created a small lake-like section at the southern edge of downtown milwaukie. Its removal will restore the creek’s natural flow and transform the area into a vibrant recreational hub. Plans include a network of trails that will connect to regional pathways, offering residents and visitors alike a chance to explore the revitalized landscape.
A Brighter Future for the Community
beyond its ecological benefits, the Kellogg Creek restoration project promises to enhance the quality of life for local residents. The new trails and recreational spaces will provide opportunities for hiking,biking,and nature appreciation,fostering a deeper connection between the community and its natural surroundings. This initiative represents a meaningful step toward balancing human activity with environmental stewardship.
Conclusion
the removal of the Kellogg Dam is more than just a construction project—it’s a commitment to restoring the health of Kellogg Creek and its ecosystem. by reconnecting waterways, improving fish habitats, and creating recreational spaces, this effort will leave a lasting legacy for generations to come. As the dam comes down,a new chapter begins for Clackamas County,one defined by sustainability,accessibility,and natural beauty.
After years of tireless collaboration between local authorities, the Oregon Department of Transportation, and the environmental advocacy group American Rivers, a groundbreaking project has finally gained momentum. The final hurdle was cleared in December when the Metro council approved a $10 million grant, paving the way for transformative change. This initiative, which has garnered widespread support, is poised to reshape the region’s landscape while delivering substantial environmental benefits.
Christine Lewis, a Metro councilor representing the Milwaukie district, emphasized the critical role of public support in bringing this project to fruition. She noted, ”In 2019, voters across the Metro area region said yes to funding parks, and we have a parks bond that includes several program areas.” This community-driven backing underscores the importance of local engagement in shaping enduring progress.
Construction is slated to begin in 2028, with the enterprising goal of completion by 2030. While the project promises to deliver significant ecological advantages, it also demands meticulous planning to ensure that the dam’s removal doesn’t inadvertently create new challenges. April McEwen, a representative from American Rivers, explained, “When we remove the dam, we start drawing the water down, we have to manage the sediment and to slowly drain the lake.” This careful approach reflects a commitment to balancing progress with environmental stewardship.
How will the $10 million grant be allocated to diffrent aspects of the Kellogg Dam removal project?
interview wiht Dr. Emily Carter, Environmental Restoration Specialist and Lead Consultant on the Kellogg Dam Removal Project
By Archyde News
archyde News: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Carter. The Kellogg Dam removal project is a monumental step for Clackamas County. Can you start by telling us what makes this project so significant?
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you for having me. The Kellogg Dam removal is significant for several reasons. First, it’s about restoring the natural flow of Kellogg Creek, which has been obstructed for over 176 years. This dam has been a barrier to fish migration, notably for salmon and steelhead, which are vital to the local ecosystem. By removing it, we’re not just improving the health of the creek but also reconnecting it to the Willamette River, which is a critical step for the survival of these fish populations.
Archyde News: The dam has been inactive since 1898. Why has it taken so long to address its environmental impact?
Dr. Emily Carter: That’s a great question. The dam’s inactivity doesn’t mean it hasn’t been causing harm. For over a century, it has created stagnant water conditions, which are detrimental to aquatic life. The delay in addressing this issue has been due to a combination of factors—lack of funding, competing priorities, and the complexity of coordinating between various stakeholders, including local governments, environmental agencies, and the community. It’s only recently that we’ve been able to secure the necessary resources and alignment to move forward.
Archyde News: The project is funded by a $10 million grant. How will these funds be allocated?
Dr. Emily Carter: The funding is being used for several key components of the project. First, there’s the actual removal of the dam, which is a complex engineering task. Second, we’re replacing the aging Highway 99 bridge that sits atop the dam. This bridge is not only a safety hazard but also a barrier to the creek’s natural flow. Additionally, funds are being allocated to habitat restoration, including planting native vegetation and creating fish-pleasant passageways. a portion of the grant is dedicated to developing recreational trails and public spaces, ensuring the community can enjoy the revitalized area.
Archyde News: Speaking of the community, what kind of impact do you expect this project to have on local residents?
dr. Emily Carter: The impact will be transformative. Beyond the ecological benefits, this project will create new recreational opportunities for the community.We’re planning a network of trails that will connect to regional pathways,making it easier for residents to hike,bike,and explore the natural beauty of the area. This will not only improve the quality of life but also foster a deeper connection between people and their habitat. It’s about creating a space where nature and community can thrive together.
Archyde News: What challenges have you faced in planning and executing this project?
Dr. Emily Carter: Every large-scale restoration project comes with its own set of challenges. One of the biggest has been coordinating the removal of the dam with the replacement of the highway 99 bridge. Both are critical to the success of the project,but they require careful planning to minimize disruption to the community and the environment. We’ve also had to address concerns from local residents and businesses, ensuring that their needs are met while staying true to the project’s environmental goals. It’s been a balancing act, but one that we’re committed to getting right.
Archyde news: Looking ahead, what do you hope the legacy of this project will be?
Dr. Emily Carter: I hope this project will serve as a model for other communities facing similar challenges. It’s a testament to what can be achieved when we prioritize environmental restoration and community well-being. By removing the Kellogg Dam, we’re not just restoring a creek—we’re creating a healthier, more sustainable future for Clackamas County. I hope this project inspires others to take bold steps toward balancing human activity with environmental stewardship.
Archyde News: Thank you, Dr. Carter, for sharing your insights with us. We look forward to seeing the positive changes this project will bring to Clackamas County.
Dr. Emily Carter: Thank you. It’s an exciting time, and I’m proud to be part of such a transformative effort.
