Saw this link over at Oregonlive today about how one of the ponds at Eastmoreland Golf Club has been connected to Johnson Creek by a manmade stream in hopes that migrating salmon and steelhead will use the pond and stream as spawning beds.

A few years back a club released a bunch of tule smolts into Johnson Creek several miles up from the mouth with the same hopes. Never heard about any acceptable results.

While I know that some winter fish spawn in the stream, I strongly feel that this stream is far too poluted by local dumping and spraying to rationalize such efforts. Am I wrong here? Why do so many folks feel that it's worth spending so much money in concentrated areas when spots above and below are such a mess?

Maybe they see those fish that are spawning and think that they can help more fish to do the same. Nature is pretty resilient and can overcome obstacles that we might not think possible. They are probably looking at a stream half full, not half empty. Also, if it is private funds, let them spend. Just my thoughts. Andy

Artist formerly known as Fobb,

The stream in reference is called crystal springs creek. Actually, I believe at one time it actually did have a spawning run of fish. It's the creek that runs through eastmorland park that you cross over to get to the fly casting pool. It is spring water and I believe pretty high quality water. I think the largest concern is water temps in the ponds during the summer. I know some groups (steelheaders ?) have planted riparian vegetation. I know some people hold this small stream as the biggest hope for urban fish reabilitation in the city, and I for one know many urban youth (and not so youth) would probablly get a kick of seeing some nookers in that little stream in the middle of the park. Well, that's about all I have to say about that.

-Ryan