Our vision is to preserve the last remaining undeveloped parcel of land on the bluff with its majestic, solitary, heritage Oak, to restore native species along the east slope of the Willamette, and to create a series of trails that connect green space from Overlook to St. Johns. We want to protect what remains of a corridor of Oregon white oak savannahs and Pacific madronas that once extended from Vancouver B.C. to California.

Have you ever wondered about the future of Overlook Bluff?  The steep slope, or escarpment, that offers a natural buffer between the railyards, Swan Island and our neighborhood has become the focus of Friends of Overlook Bluff. This land offers views of the Willamette River that shapes the character of our city. Deer, coyotes, red-tailed hawks, peregrine falcons, great horned owls, Vaux swifts and other migratory birds all rely on what remains of Oregon’s natural forest. The city has mandates to balance high-density development of the Interstate Corridor with green space, to protect the Willamette watershed and to create safe pedestrian off-street trails.

This irreplaceable land, located on the south end of Overlook Terrace, is in danger of being developed. Friends of Overlook Bluff is working to influence agencies within the city to acquire the property. The owner is willing to sell it for public purposes rather than to private developers. Toward that goal we are in contact with the Bureau of Environmental Services, Metro, Portland Parks, non-profit land trusts, East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District, SOLVE, and Audubon. Our efforts will be most effective with a strong neighborhood-wide demonstration of support and priority.