Fernhill Wetlands, managed by Clean Water Services, in Forest Grove, Oregon
Portland metro area’s system of parks, trails and natural areas are an essential “green” part of the urban infrastructure and intentionally used to improve the region’s air and water quality. Elements of a system that maximizes nature to support basic life services include:
- a healthy urban forest canopy that contributes to storm water management, habitat and air quality.
- an interconnected system of local and regional trails, bike paths, pedestrian-friendly streets and other transportation alternatives that significantly reduces vehicle miles traveled and miles of impervious road surfaces, as well as reducing air pollutants and storm water runoff pollution.
- regional watersheds that successfully maintain the long-term ecological integrity of streams, wetlands, rivers and their floodplains, including their biological, physical, and social values.
- an informed, passionate public that consistently advocates for restoration activities, resource conservation and appropriate use of natural areas to maintain the region’s air and water quality.
Read more about ecosystem services here.
Outcome: The region benefits from clean and healthy air, water, food and many other valuable services.