Gales Creek is an important landmark and multi-value resource for residents of Forest Grove and the larger watershed. Efforts are under way to enhance the quality of Gales Creek water, habitat and species diversity, as well as to mitigate human impacts and combat invasive species. The Metro Greenspace program has made an important investment in the Lower Gales Creek by securing public ownership of the wetland and agricultural area between Forest Grove and the Gales Creek/Tualatin River confluence. Local residents and Pacific University staff have been developing an interest in restoring elements of the riparian habitat. Oaks are a naturalitat but are beinglost at an alarming rate throughout the city. Many are over 150 years old are are being killed by root compaction, or cut down due to development pressures and concerns about risk.

Old Towne neighbors and Pacific Unviersity have undertaken this project in close coordination with both main partners; the Portland Metro Greenspaces Program and Forest Grove City Parks and Recreation Department. Funding was provided by the City Council and staff, Pacific University  and Metro staff. Americorps has provided work crews for brush clearing and clean up.

Volunteer events were held to encourage community involvement and the establishment of relationships with other important organizations including, but not limited to; Pacific University student groups; Stop Oregon Litter & Vandalism (SOLV); Clean Water Services; Tualatin River Keepers and Tualatin River Watershed Council. Events include; a community orientation walking tour (summer) and tree planting (late winter/early spring).

The city of Forest Grove had seven 20 year-old oak trees that needed relocation due to crowding and other issues. These trees ranged up to 12 ft in height and 4 inches in diameter which required transplanting with the aid of a tree-spade. In addition, other local project supporters had native tree seedlings potted for the purpose of planting at the site in the future. Community volunteers and students from two university environmental science classes assisted in all parts of the project during Spring 2005. On Earth Day (April 23, 2005) a group of volunteer students and residents planted the oaks that had been delivered on site by local nuseryman Tom Epler and crew. The event garnered positive publicity from the Forest Grove News Times, the Oregonian and Hillsboro Argus. An Americorps crew completed maintenance work and set the site up to survive the summer dry season. Volunteers will monitor and maintain the watering system during the summer (2005).

Overall the project was very successful in securing partners, generating volunteer participation and in making the most of the budget. The actual expenditure was around $3134, while the volunteer value, in-kind services and materials donations totaled over $8850! Details available on paid staff time allocations and donated time & materials. The original $15,000 grant application was broader in scope and having been awarded $5,000 out of this proposed, we trimmed the scope back.