Dipping between the snow-capped Cascade peaks and the Coastal Range, and stretching from Cottage Grove to Portland, the Willamette Watershed encompasses much of what we know as Oregon. As the river winds through cities, towns and agricultural land, it ties the state together and offers scenery, recreation, and much, much more. During the summers, recreation-loving Oregonians seek out places to play and swim in fresh, clean water. Even on the hottest of summer days, only a few people venture into the Willamette, and health officials sometimes warn against it. Oregon is notorious for its rain, but water is still in short supply.
Some areas have water shortages and are looking for new sources.
Two mid-valley communities currently drink treated water from the Willamette. Several others, further downstream, are also considering using the river as a water source. However, some citizens have safety concerns. Salmon are a symbol of the Northwest and once were so abundant that imaginative travelers reported crossing streams on the backs of fish. Native steelhead have been listed under the Endangered Species Act, and other species of salmon are likely to follow.