Welcome to the web home of the Willamette Falls Heritage Foundation
Willamette Falls is a horseshoe-shaped basalt cascade that divides the upper and lower reaches of the Willamette River. which is an American Heritage River. The 52' falls lie 14 miles upriver from Portland by car and 26 river miles from the Columbia. They were the heart of pioneer industry in the Oregon Territory.
The Latest...
2012 Locks advocacy progress is detailed in December Newsletter. Please click on "Newsletter" to learn more about the locks status.
Willamette Falls Locks: National Treasure and an Oregon "Most Endangered Place":
http://www.westlinntidings.com/news/story.php?story_id=133841509155579900
CLOSED LOCKS CREATE A DIVIDED WILLAMETTE
The Corps of Engineers closed the Willamette Falls Navigation Canal and Locks in West Linn in November for repairs to the gudgeon arms and anchors on Gates 2, 3, and 4 that will require a significant maintenance investment.
We urge river users to contact their local elected officials, to let them know the importance of maintaining the option of marine freight and recreation through our locks. Our delegation needs to understand the financial effects a closure of any length may impose upon businesses, workers and customers in the communities along the river, as well as future economic potential.
A letter-writing campaign has begun to rally public support for cost effective, expedited repairs so that the canal around the falls may reopen. Contact the One Willamette River Coalition, at 503-655-0649, for a sample letter packet with addresses and talking points. Whether you are a recreational boater, a marine business, a lover of heritage, or interested in river-based tourism, we have talking points for you if you need them.
Art news
"Art Contemplates Industry: Bull Run Powerhouse" Catalog Available
Marvel at the views of artists of three historic Clackamas County hydropower plants, as documented in our collection of project catalogs. See Bull Run Powerhouse, T.W. Sullivan Powerhouse, and the Hawley Pulp and Paper Company Powerhouse (no longer in existence) through the eyes of some of the region's finest artists and photographers.
