The Willamette River  is our home. We live on or near its banks and cross it every day. Yet, for generations we humans have mistreated, neglected, and scorned it. Well, the tide is turning. Together with others, the Human Access Project (HAP) is helping people “get into” this natural treasure - to enjoy it, preserve it, and cherish it for generations to come.

                           Join the riverlution!

Mission, Vision and Path

VISION   A city in love with its river.

MISSION   Transform Portland’s relationship with the Willamette River.

PATH OF OBJECTIVES

1. Build it: create more public spaces, beaches and access points to the Willamette River
   in downtown Portland.
2. Use it: inspire Portlanders and visitors to connect with the Willamette River.
3. Love it: support conservation, education and stewardship of the Willamette River and
   Watershed.

Create a human habitat

Let’s face it, even if you wanted to swim in the Willamette River in downtown Portland, how would you do it? There’s no easy way to get into the water. Frankly, that’s crazy. Here we have a natural treasure running through the heart of our city and no easy way to enjoy it.It’s like this:  if you want birds to come into your yard, you put up a bird feeder and plant trees to create a bird-friendly habitat. The same is true for humans and the river. If we want to make it easy for people to swim and recreate in the Willamette we need to create better access and a more inviting environment.That is the path we are on. Follow us!