ODOT joins local efforts to restore a precious natural area

From ODOT-

More than 237 acres of parklands in the Whilamut Natural Area are along the north bank of the Willamette River, east and west of Interstate 5, and our bridge replacement project.



The Whilamut Natural Area provides for habitat restoration. It is dedicated to passive uses such as walking, bicycling and nature appreciation. Its character is very different than the developed park near the Ferry Street Bridge, farther west near downtown Eugene.



In 2001, the local Citizen Planning Committee voted to rename East Alton Baker Park the Whilamut Natural Area. In 2002, local Kalapuya people joined many other residents to commemorate the official renaming. Whilamut (WHEEL-a-moot), a Kalapuya word, means “where the river ripples and runs fast.”



Ongoing efforts by the CPC and local volunteers focus on restoring the area’s native plants and habitat, with a long-term goal of providing valuable diversity of native plant and wildlife species.



The next time you use the Canoe Canal Path or the North Bank Path, look for restored native plantings and other enhancements that create a more natural environment. ODOT, as part of our Willamette River Bridge project, is a partner with local citizens to restore native habitat in the Whilamut Natural Area.