The Willamette hasn't seen sewage flow in over a year. Photo: Meira Gebel/Axios
It's been over a year since poop and other sewage flowed into the Willamette River — a cause for celebration for some Portlanders, who took a dive into its frigid, winter waters last week.
Catch up quick: Before the $1.4 billion Big Pipe Project was completed in 2011, Portland saw over 50 sewage overflows per year, altering many residents' perception of the cleanliness of the Willamette for recreation.
The duration and volume of overflows caused by rainfall has decreased significantly in the decade-plus since, improving river health. Overflows still happen, albeit infrequently.
Volunteer-led efforts like the nonprofit Human Access Project (HAP) — which hosted the celebratory cold plunge last week — continue to invest in river cleanup projects and events encouraging residents to dip their toes in.
What's next: State Rep. Rob Nosse (D-Portland) introduced a bill this legislative session that would direct $2 million in funds to HAP, Oregon State University and others to mitigate toxic algae blooms coming from the Ross Island lagoon — a growing threat to the river's stability.
