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 INTRODUCTION TO THE TUALATIN WATERSHED 

The Tualatin River is approximately 83 miles long and drains a 712 square mile watershed on the western side of the Portland metropolitan area. Originating in the Coast Range at ~ 3000 feet, the Tualatin River drops quickly to the valley floor where it meanders through agricultural and urban lands. The river enters the Willamette River in West Linn. Once considered one of the most polluted rivers in the United States, the Tualatin River has gained national recognition for its water quality recovery over the last several years. 
Throughout Oregon, scientists from various agencies have worked for the past twenty-five years  to determine the nature and extent of pollution that plagues the Tualatin River. As part of the Portland metropolitan area,  this small watershed supports diverse land uses while experiencing the pressure of a rapidly increasing population. 
The Tualatin River Watershed Council website has more information about the Tualatin River Basin. www.trwc.org 
This graph shows the gradient (change in elevation as the river runs downstream) of the Tualatin River. 

Compare the gradient of the Tualatin to the Sandy or Clackamas that have headwaters in the Cascade Range.
Watersheds

CLACKAMAS

 COLUMBIA LOWER WILLAMETTE MIDDLE WILLAMETTE SANDY TUALATIN
 

Columbia Slough 

Johnson Creek      
         
       
       
       

       

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The Student Watershed Research Project is a 
self funded program of Portland State University's
Environmental Sciences and Resources
Last updated February 21, 2003

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