The Lower Columbia River provides a complex ecosystem to hundreds of species of animals and hundreds of thousands of people. While the river defies description in many ways, complex is a word that fits. Tides, currents, a huge flow of water, a busy shipping channel, tons of recreational use, 12 species of fish listed on the endangered species act, water quality limited stretches, wetlands that have been lost over time due to development, diking and draining, and wetlands that are now being restored through the work of committed groups and organizations.
This section aims to provide a glimpse into elements and characteristics of the lower Columbia River. Explore!
Estuary: A partially enclosed body of water formed where freshwater
from rivers and streams flows into the ocean, mixing with the salty sea water.
Environmental Conditions
Columbia River Indicators
Columbia River Journals
Geologic History
Photo Tour
River Species
Lower Columbia River Overview
The Columbia River is an interstate and international river, originating in Canada and flowing south 1,214 miles to the Pacific Ocean. It is the fourth largest watershed in the United States, draining a total of 259,000 square miles, and receiving waters from seven states and one province. The river has the second largest volume of flow of any river in the United States. The diversity of the estuary's habitat and living resources and its primary significance to the economic stability of a vast population make it a model for other large river systems. Most importantly, the Columbia River estuary offers an opportunity to restore a vital resource and protect it for all generations.
The river's significance to this country is far-reaching. Native American peoples have fished its waters and lived near its shores for thousands of years. In 1805, the Lewis and Clark expedition journeyed down the river, seeking a route to the Pacific. Their exploration opened the vast, uncharted territory of the Columbia River Basin to a migration that continues even today. Its powerful presence echoes in the legends and songs of those it has touched. The grandeur and abundance of the Columbia River are revealed in many ways. Its natural beauty defines much of who we are in the Pacific Northwest, and we are drawn to it for recreation and renewal. Hundreds of species swim in its waters, dwell along its banks, and fly and nest in the surrounding heights. The Columbia generates electric power for residents and businesses, provides irrigation for crops, and harbors deep-water ships that come and go across the Pacific. Millions of people depend on the river for employment in water-related industries, for commerce, and for transportation.
But the Columbia River is in trouble. As with many rivers and streams, human activities over the past 100 years have inflicted damage as well as brought benefits. As mighty as the river appears, it is not immune to pollution and the mounting pressure of sometimes competing uses. Stormwater runoff, industrial discharges, fishing, development, irrigation, power generation, forestry, mining, transportation, and water supply: all have left their marks.
What is the future outlook for this precious resource? It is as boundless as the river itself and our own determination. The future of the Lower Columbia River Estuary ultimately rests with those of us who live, work, and play here. Our activities, choices, and lifestyles directly affect the river’s health and well-being. We can control and limit runoff, restore and protect habitat, use and discharge fewer pollutants, and make numerous other changes in our daily lives. The Management Plan gives us the background, tools, and vision we need. It is now up to us to carry out this vision through our continued attention and dedication. It will be well worth the effort.
