Keller Woodlands

Keller Woodlands, a 40-acre site in the Terwilliger Heights in SW Portland, provides a great success story for just 6 years of active weed management. The Columbia Land Trust now owns the site, following a merger with Three Rivers Land Conservancy (TRLC) who owned the property at the time of restoration. In 2004 TRLC began aggressive English ivy control using integrated pest management techniques that included both manual and chemical removal with sensitivity given to infestations near native plants. The volunteer crews at the site even implemented an innovative approach to pile ivy in such a manner that it does not re-sprout, and actually composts itself. Although English ivy was the targeted invasive weed, attention is also given to the removal of other invasive plants such as Himalayan blackberry, English holly, Garlic mustard, Herb Robert, and Shining geranium. The Three Rivers Land Conservancy obtained an OWEB grant for some of the treatment as well as native plantings.

In addition to Keller Woods already serving as a demonstration site for the West Willamette Restoration Partnership, its location along the Marquam Trail, a heavily used hiking trail, as well as signage along the heavily trafficked Terwilliger Blvd provides great outreach opportunities. Three Rivers Land Conservancy continues to monitor and maintain the site with monthly volunteer work parties. Four years of combined chemical and manual treatment, along with extensive volunteer work, make the Keller Woodlands site an inspiration!