Salmon Survey Orientation

Johnson Creek and it’s tributaries are the only salmon bearing tributary in Eastern Portland! JCWC documents the distribution of salmon species and spawning activity throughout the watershed to inform restoration efforts and to share with our scientific partner organizations.

Salmon are integral to the Pacific Northwest and to Johnson Creek. These amazing fish migrate from their natal streams, to the ocean, and back again to spawn. They also play important roles in the cultures and histories of Native Nations to this area. Since 2011, JCWC volunteers have been studying the creek for Coho and Chinook salmon and their nests, which are called redds. Join us this year for surveys!

Surveys include suiting up in waders and life jackets and wading through Johnson Creek during winter flows looking for live salmon, carcasses, and nests (redds). Surveys usually take about 3 hours and are scheduled in your own time. You will be surveying with a team so feel free to sign-up your own or we’ll team you up with other surveyors!

Click Here to RSVP!

When: Orientation – Saturday, October 14th, 10am-1:30pm, with an hour break for lunch and travel. 

Survey Season – Surveyors will conduct 2-3 surveys from mid-October to mid-November

Where: Zoom Orientation – October 14th, 10am-11:30am, Zoom link emailed to you after registration

Outdoor Orientation and Gear Pick-up – October 14th, 12:30pm-1:30pm, Johnson Creek Park (address emailed after orientation) 

Survey Season: Surveys this year will take place ONLY in Crystal Springs in inner SE Portland. 

Both indoor and outdoor orientation are required to participate! These surveys are in high demand please email marlee@jcwc.org if you can no longer participate.

Time commitment: Orientation – 3.5 hours

Survey Season – Sign-up for 2-3 surveys. Surveys typically take 2-3 hours. 

How to prepare: This event will happen rain or shine, so dress for weather: rain coat, warm layers, sun hat, and sunscreen as necessary. Wear sturdy, close-toed shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring a filled water bottle and a snack.

We will provide: We will provide all necessary training and gear. You are welcome to bring your own waders, life jacket, and walking stick. We can also provide bus fare to and from the event. Please contact marlee@jcwc.org to arrange bus fare.

Health and safety: We will follow current Oregon Health Authority guidelines. Masks are not required, but encouraged in indoor spaces where social distancing is not possible. Stay home if you are experiencing symptoms of any contagious illness or have had recent contact with someone exhibiting symptoms of any illness.

Youth 16 years and older are welcome to participate in surveys.

Accessibility: These surveys require walking/standing/squatting for up to 3 hours in summer weather. Surveys require wading through Johnson Creek in water levels that can vary between ankle deep to waist deep and potentially climbing over/under downed logs. Anyone under 4ft tall is unfortunately not permitted to participate in surveys. 

Thank you to our funders and partners for supporting watershed health. East Multnomah Soil & Water Conservation District, The City of Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services, Reed College, and Portland Parks & Recreation.