18 Best Environmental Organizations in Portland

There are a number of environmental organizations in Portland, which put in their all to ensure that anthropogenic activities and other factors of environmental degradation do not cause more harm to the environment and the planet at large.

Studies have shown that places that are populous are highly prone to more environmental issues. This trend would have been the same for Portland, the most populous city in the United States, except for the activities of various environmental organizations in Portland.

The passionate moves of these organizations have succeeded in making the environment around Portland County void of unbearable measures of environmental degradation, thus creating a greener and eco-friendly Portland.

You might want to get to know some of these environmental organizations who have been able to help keep the environment in check, just in case you need to look them up and get involved, then read on.

Environmental Organizations in Portland

environmental organizations in portland
  • The Audubon Society of Portland
  • The Nature Conservancy – Oregon Chapter
  • Oregon Environmental Council
  • Friends of Trees
  • Willamette Riverkeeper
  • Oregon Wild
  • Bark
  • 350PDX
  • The Freshwater Trust
  • Depave
  • The Intertwine Alliance
  • Urban Greenspaces Institute
  • Friends of Tryon Creek State Park
  • The Wetlands Conservancy
  • Oregon Wildlands
  • The Johnson Creek Watershed Council
  • Tryon Creek Watershed Council
  • Portland Audubon

1. The Audubon Society of Portland

The Audubon Society of Portland is a well-respected environmental organization based in Portland, Oregon. As a local chapter of the National Audubon Society, it focuses on bird conservation, wildlife habitat restoration, and environmental education in the Portland metropolitan area.

The organization is dedicated to protecting birds and their habitats through various initiatives, including advocacy for bird-friendly policies, community engagement, and educational programs.

They operate the Audubon Society of Portland Wildlife Care Center, which provides care and rehabilitation for injured and orphaned wildlife.

The Audubon Society of Portland is known for its efforts to promote birdwatching, conserve critical bird habitats, and raise awareness about the importance of preserving biodiversity in the region.

For more details, visit their official website.

2. The Nature Conservancy – Oregon Chapter

The Nature Conservancy – Oregon Chapter is a prominent environmental organization that operates in the state of Oregon, including the Portland area. It is part of The Nature Conservancy, a global conservation organization.

The Oregon chapter is dedicated to conserving and protecting critical natural habitats and biodiversity in the state. Their work involves acquiring and managing lands for conservation, implementing sustainable land and water management practices, and collaborating with local communities and stakeholders to achieve conservation goals.

In order to ensure that the environment in Oregon is healthy for a longer period of time, this organization has been committed to protecting ecosystems, preserving wilderness areas, and promoting sustained resource management.

Click here to get more information about this organization.

3. Oregon Environmental Council

The Oregon Environmental Council (OEC) is a non-profit environmental organization based in Oregon, with a focus on advocating for policies and initiatives that promote a cleaner and more sustainable environment.

OEC works on a wide range of environmental issues, including clean energy, clean water, sustainable transportation, and climate change mitigation. They engage in research, advocacy, and community outreach to address environmental challenges in the state.

The OEC has a track record in shaping environmental policies, reducing pollution, and promoting conservation practices to improve the overall quality of Oregon’s environment.

Click here to check them out.

4. Friends of Trees

Friends of Trees is a non-profit environmental firm based in the Pacific Northwest, particularly in Oregon and Washington, USA. Established in 1989, its primary mission is to promote urban forestry and community engagement for environmental conservation.

Friends of Trees conducts tree planting projects in urban and suburban areas, involving local communities and volunteers to improve air quality, combat climate change, and enhance green spaces in cities.

They also offer educational programs and green jobs training to raise awareness and create a more sustainable urban environment.

For more information about the Friends of Trees, click here.

5. Willamette Riverkeeper

Willamette Riverkeeper is a non-profit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and restoration of the Willamette River in Oregon, USA.

Founded in 1996, their mission is to advocate for the health and sustainability of the river ecosystem through education, advocacy, and community engagement.

Willamette Riverkeeper works to reduce pollution, enhance water quality, and preserve the natural beauty of the river.

They organize river clean-up events, educational programs, and advocacy efforts to promote responsible river management and ensure the Willamette River remains a valuable natural resource for the region.

You can join them in their list of eco-friendly activities as they keep their arms open to volunteer opportunities too.

Visit their official website for more inquiries.

6. Oregon Wild

Oregon Wild is a non-profit environmental organization based in Oregon, USA founded in 1974, with its primary mission being to protect and advocate for the state’s wilderness areas, wildlife, and natural landscapes.

Since coming into existence, Oregon Wild has been instrumental in shaping environmental policy and advocating for conservation efforts in the Pacific Northwest. They are dedicated to preserving the ecological integrity of Oregon’s forests, rivers, and wilderness areas.

Oregon Wild engages in advocacy, litigation, and public awareness campaigns to safeguard endangered species, promote sustainable land management, and preserve the state’s natural heritage.

For more information, visit their official website.

7. Bark

Bark is a non-profit environmental organization based in the Pacific Northwest, primarily in the state of Oregon, USA.

Founded in 1999, Bark focuses on protecting and preserving the region’s forests, particularly the Mount Hood National Forest, through advocacy, education, and grassroots activism.

They work to safeguard old-growth forests, wildlife habitats, and water quality by monitoring and challenging logging and development activities.

Bark is known for its efforts to promote sustainable forest management and conserve the natural beauty and ecological integrity of the Pacific Northwest’s forests.

Click here for more information.

8. 350PDX

350PDX is a grassroots environmental organization based in Portland, Oregon, USA. Its mandate is to address climate change and advocate for ways of reducing CO2 emissions.

The organization is affiliated with the global climate movement 350.org and is committed to building awareness and taking action on climate issues.

350PDX engages in various activities, including advocacy, organizing protests, supporting climate policies, and promoting sustainable practices. They work to mobilize local communities and individuals to combat climate change and promote a more sustainable and environmentally responsible future.

So, if you admire this organization and its movement, as well as how they carry out their fight for climate justice, then joining them either as a volunteer or a follower wouldn’t be a bad idea.

Click here to join.

9. The Freshwater Trust

The Freshwater Trust is a non-profit environmental organization based in the United States, primarily operating in the Pacific Northwest. It was founded in 1983, for the purpose of protecting and the restoration of freshwater ecosystems, including rivers and streams.

The organization employs innovative approaches, such as water quality trading and habitat restoration projects, to improve water quality, enhance aquatic habitats, and conserve freshwater resources.

The Freshwater Trust works with government agencies, private landowners, and businesses to implement sustainable water management solutions and address water-related challenges in a holistic and data-driven manner.

10. Depave

Depave is a non-profit organization based in the United States, known for its efforts to remove unnecessary pavement (like asphalt and concrete) from urban areas.

Since its establishment in 2008, Depave’s mission has been to create more vibrant and sustainable communities by transforming paved spaces into green areas.

They organize volunteer-driven events to break up and remove pavement, allowing for the creation of green spaces, rain gardens, and other environmentally friendly features.

Depave’s work helps mitigate stormwater runoff, reduce the urban heat island effect, and enhance urban biodiversity while fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship.

Just in case you want to be a part of them by volunteering or just want to check them out, click here

11. The Intertwine Alliance

The Intertwine Alliance is a regional coalition based in the Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington area.

It comprises over 160 organizations and agencies dedicated to promoting conservation, recreation, and the integration of natural areas within urban environments.

The Alliance works to enhance access to green spaces, protect biodiversity, and create a more sustainable and connected urban landscape by fostering collaboration among its member organizations and advocating for green infrastructure and outdoor recreation opportunities in the region.

For more information, click here.

12. Urban Greenspaces Institute

The Urban Greenspaces Institute is a non-profit organization based in Portland, Oregon, USA.

Founded in 2000, its primary mission is to promote the development and enhancement of green spaces within urban environments.

The institute focuses on research, advocacy, and policy work related to urban green spaces, aiming to create more sustainable, accessible, and equitable green spaces in cities.

They collaborate with communities, policymakers, and other organizations to improve urban planning and design to prioritize green infrastructure, parks, and natural areas for the benefit of city residents and the environment.

For more information, click here.

13. Friends of Tryon Creek State Park

Friends of Tryon Creek State Park is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting and enhancing Tryon Creek State Natural Area, located in Portland, Oregon.

This volunteer-based group collaborates with the Oregon State Parks system to protect and preserve the park’s natural beauty and ecosystems. They engage in activities like habitat restoration, educational programs, and community events to promote conservation, outdoor education, and recreation in the park.

Friends of Tryon Creek State Park plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving the park’s accessibility and ecological health.

For more information, Click here.

14. The Wetlands Conservancy

The Wetlands Conservancy is a non-profit organization based in the state of Oregon, USA.

Founded in 1981, its primary mission is to conserve and protect wetland habitats in Oregon through advocacy, restoration, and education.

The organization works to preserve the ecological and cultural values of wetlands, promote public awareness about their importance, and engage in restoration projects to enhance these vital ecosystems.

Their efforts contribute to the preservation of wetland biodiversity and the benefits wetlands provide, including flood control, water purification, and habitat for wildlife.

For further inquiries, click here.

15. Oregon Wildlands

Oregon Wildlands is a non-profit organization that focuses on preserving and protecting the wild and natural areas of the state of Oregon, USA.

They work to safeguard wilderness, forests, rivers, and wildlife habitats through advocacy, litigation, and public engagement.

Oregon Wildlands seeks to ensure that these natural landscapes remain intact for future generations to enjoy and for the ecological health of the region.

Their efforts aim to balance conservation and responsible land management practices in Oregon.

Click here to check them out on their official website.

16. The Johnson Creek Watershed Council

The Johnson Creek Watershed Council is a non-profit organization based in Portland, Oregon, USA. Established in 1995, its primary mission is to protect and restore the Johnson Creek watershed, which is an important urban stream and natural area in the Portland metropolitan area.

The council works on various projects and initiatives, including habitat restoration, water quality improvement, and community engagement, to enhance the health and resilience of the Johnson Creek ecosystem.

Their efforts contribute to improving the overall environmental quality and recreational value of the watershed.

For more information, click here.

17. Tryon Creek Watershed Council

The Tryon Creek Watershed Council is a non-profit organization based in the Portland, Oregon, area. It is dedicated to the conservation and restoration of the Tryon Creek watershed, which includes the Tryon Creek State Natural Area and surrounding communities.

The council works on projects related to water quality improvement, habitat restoration, and community engagement to enhance the health of the watershed.

They collaborate with volunteers, agencies, and local communities to promote environmental stewardship and protect this important natural resource.

If you wish to be part of them, or for further inquiries about this organization, visit the official website.

18. Portland Audubon

Portland Audubon, formally known as the Audubon Society of Portland, is a non-profit organization based in Portland, Oregon, USA.

Founded in 1902, it is dedicated to the conservation of birds and their habitats through education, advocacy, and conservation programs.

Portland Audubon offers various educational opportunities, birdwatching outings, and conservation initiatives to promote environmental awareness and protect wildlife in the Pacific Northwest.

The organization also operates a wildlife rehabilitation center and a sanctuary for injured and orphaned animals, furthering its commitment to wildlife welfare and environmental stewardship.

For more inquiries, click here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the vibrant and dedicated environmental organizations in Portland serve as inspiring beacons of hope in the ongoing battle to protect our planet.

Their tireless efforts, innovative solutions, and unwavering commitment to sustainability remind us all that positive change is possible when communities come together with a shared vision.

As we celebrate the accomplishments of these organizations, let us also recognize the importance of individual actions in supporting their missions.

By collaborating, advocating, and adopting eco-friendly practices in our daily lives, we can amplify the impact of these organizations and ensure a greener, more sustainable future for Portland and beyond.

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A Passion driven Environmental Enthusiast/Activist, Geo-Environmental Technologist, Content Writer, Graphic Designer, and Techno-Business Solution Specialist, who believes it is up to us all to make our planet a better and greener place to reside.

Go for Green, Let's make the earth Greener !!!

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