The confluence of the Hood River and Columbia River is an important ecosystem in the Hood River Watershed, which stretches 339 square miles from the eastern side of the Cascade Range to the Columbia River. Over the years, development of the waterfront as well as severe weather has changed the footprint of this confluence, creating barriers for native fish species and creating habitats where invasive species thrive. In 2020, Congress approved the Hood River Watershed Feasibility Study under the Water Resources Development Act. With growing recreational use of this important piece of the watershed, the Port actively advocated for the study, recognizing the importance of balancing recreation with environmental restoration. The study will be conducted by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers who will cover a majority of the $3 million dollar project costs. Project partners, including the Port of Hood River, Confederated Tribes of the Warm Springs and the Hood River Watershed Group worked to secure funding for the remainder.

Now fully funded, Cindy Thieman, Director of the HRWG says the study will “evaluate what could be done at the Confluence to improve habitat for native fish and wildlife. It also needs to accommodate existing recreation.” Partnering agencies will now work together to conduct the study, looking at set project criteria from the USACE, as well as logistical feasibility for future undetermined restoration projects. The feasibility study does not put a specific plan into motion but provides USACE and partnering agencies with the scope for future restoration projects. Data will be collected over the next few months from key points of the confluence including water temperature data, evaluating the fish utilization of the area, and identifying the technical and geological obstacles that future restoration projects may face. The Port of Hood River is proud to support the Hood River Watershed Group in this landmark project, the only one of its kind to receive federal funding in 2026. The HRWG will be hosting public open houses this fall to present the data collected and discuss possible restoration projects. To stay informed on important project dates and timelines, sign up for the Hood River Watershed Group newsletter at www.hoodriverwatershed.org or email Director Cindy Thieman at cindy@hoodriverwatershed.org.