Back to All Events

Black History Month Bird & History Walk (Open to All People)

  • Force Lake 11415 North Force Avenue Portland, OR, 97217 United States (map)

Join Columbia Slough Watershed Council, local archivist Marti Clemmons and Han Lyons of Birdhers for a birding and history walk. Throughout the walk, we’ll discuss the historical context of the area, Vanport (1942-1948), and Japanese American detainment at the Expo Center in the summer of 1942. This free event is open to all people of all ages.

Vanport’s Force Lake, circa 1944.

What to bring: Pack along water, warm layers, and binoculars. Extra binoculars will be available for those that don’t have their own. *Don't have a warm/waterproof jacket? Reach out to Amanda.

Accessibility: The walk will be ~1 mile along a mostly flat trail. There is no restroom on site. Free parking is available.

Getting there: Follow the road past 11415 North Force Ave to find a larger parking lot. Keep an eye out for Columbia Slough Watershed Council signs. Public Transportation: Bus #11 drops riders off at Marine Dr/Middlefield Rd, a ~0.4 mile walk to Force Lake. Yellow MAX line drops riders at the Expo Center Station, a ~0.7 mile walk.

Birdhers: Birdhers is a local community organization that facilitates weekly free bird walks for Womin, Non-Binary, and Trans folks. Visit their website, or follow them on Instagram to learn more (@birdherspdx).

There is limited space for this event. If you would like to be added to a waiting list, or have other questions, reach out to Amanda at amanda.gallegos@columbiaslough.org.