Guidebook
Canyon
The Reed canyon
is a 28-acre watershed in the center of the Reed College campus. Reed
Lake is fed by several springs, most of which begin at the eastern most
edge of the campus. Downstream, Crystal Springs Creek provides the
cleanest water in the Johnson Creek system, an important tributary of
the Willamette River. The Willamette flows to the Columbia River, which
flows on to the Pacific Ocean at Astoria, Oregon. This is a unique
habitat for ocean-going and resident fish species.
The 1999 Reed canyon restoration strategy was made possible by a generous
original gift from Laurel Wilkening '66 and is now under way.
Non-native, invasive plants are being eradicated, and the slopes are
being replanted with diverse native plant communities. The old outdoor
pool was removed, and a new stream meander was created to encourage
fish passage to the lake.
Students have worked with the grounds department to accomplish the
tasks outlined in the strategy and have contributed to significant
improvements in managing this diverse environment throughout the
history of the college. You can find out more at web.reed.edu/canyon.
Call or email Facilities Services if you have questions or would like to get involved:
Extension 7283 (503/777-7283), physical.plant@reed.edu