A City in Love with its River

Deadly algae blooms have desecrated sections of the Willamette River through Portland for many years. With the warming climate they are only growing worse. But it doesn't have to be this way.

On this episode of Locus Focus we talk with Willie Levenson, director and ringleader of the Human Access Project, whose mission is to transform Portland’s relationship with the Willamette River, from a neglected water body to a beloved public space and natural treasure. The organization is reconnecting Portlanders with their river, expanding public access to the Willamette, advocating for improved water quality, and facilitating positive experiences at the river’s edge.