Nestucca BayTillamook County Water Trail |
Tillamook County Water Trail at Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) in Oregon. Published by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS).
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ti llamook
cou n t y wat e r t r a i l
OREGON
Nestucca a nd
Sand Lake
WAT E R S H E D S
F L AT WAT E R & W HIT E WAT E R
Produced by the Tillamook Estuaries Partnership
WELCOME to the nestucca, Sand lake, &
neskowin creek watersheds
Tillamook County Water Trail - The Vision
The Tillamook County Water Trail encourages the quiet
exploration and discovery of the ecological, historical, social,
and cultural features of Tillamook County from the uplands
to the ocean.
The Water Trail is a recreational and educational experience
that promotes and celebrates the value of Tillamook
County’s waterways with direct benefit to the economic,
social, and environmental well-being of the County.
The Water Trail enhances the identity of Tillamook
County by establishing an alternative, low-impact way to
enjoy and appreciate the wonders of all five Tillamook
County estuaries and watersheds.
A water trail is a path on a waterway connected through signs,
maps, and access points providing a scenic and educational
experience for non-motorized users.
South Tillamook County boasts three impressive watersheds that
together span 357 square miles and contain the unassuming hamlets
of Beaver, Hebo, Cloverdale, Pacific City, and Neskowin, among
others. History establishes these waterways as valued sites for
sustenance, trade, and recreation. The waters of the Neskowin,
Sand Lake and Nestucca estuaries flow through land dominated
by dense forests, serene refuges, and tranquil parks. Bustling
dairies dot the banks as you follow the path blazed by many a
salmon making their way to and from the sea. Overhead you can spy
migrating birds as they circle down to find the perfect spot to land.
This guidebook aims to help you explore and experience the
superior recreational opportunities this area affords with safety,
responsibility, and stewardship in mind. Buckle up your life jacket,
place your paddle in the water and set out on your next adventure.
Above: Roger Ross Photography
Below: Printed with artist permission, Rose Perez ©
A watershed is a complex and diverse
ecosystem. Restoring healthy rivers
and bays is also a multifaceted
endeavour. Burgeoning awareness of
the area’s abundant rivers, sloughs,
and bays was the impetus for
establishing the Tillamook County
Water Trail (TCWT).
The Tillamook
Estuaries Partnership
(TEP) was chosen as
lead partner for the
TCWT and has shepherded the process
since its inception. TEP, a National Estuary Program, was perfectly positioned for this
role given their mission - to conserve and restore Tillamook County’s estuaries and
watersheds in their entirety.
Guy Sievert - Nestucca-Neskowin Watersheds Council
The TCWT attracts a broad range of individuals, each adding unique perspectives
and ideas that enhance the project. Paddle clean-ups, educational tours, and water
quality and invasive species monitoring have been
undertaken by users of the TCWT. Utilizing targeted
outreach in regional newspaper articles, internet, and
personal presentations, the TCWT has proven to be a
catalyst for increased interest in paddling throughout
Tillamook County, and local waterways in general.
The project has moved beyond its original vision to
become a valuable tool not only for recreationalists,
but for individuals interested in sustaining this
region’s vital natural resources.
Residents of Oregon have many
opportunities to raise their
awareness of natural resource
issues. One tangible way is to
join a local watershed council.
Watershed councils are locally
organized, voluntary, nonregulatory groups established
to improve the conditions
of watersheds in their area.
Councils represent varied
interests in the basin and are
balanced in their makeup. Council members collaborate to identify issues, promote
cooperative solutions, focus resources, establish goals for enhancement, and foster
communication throughout the watershed.
There are many ways you can support restoration and conservation efforts in your
watershed: volunteer with your local watershed council; use native vegetation in your
landscaping and curb the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides; maintain your
septic systems; plant riparian buffers along your riverbank; appreciate the beauty of
your surroundings; and as always reduce, reuse, and recycle; contact the Tillamook
Estuaries Partnership for more ideas.
Aubrey, grade 5 © Community Arts Project
www.communityartsproject.net
Courtesy of Pacific City Birding & Blues Festival
Catalysts for Change
Working for healthy watersheds - how you can help.
Nestucca, Neskowin & Sand Lake Watershed Council: (503)965-2200
Tillamook Bay Watershed Council: (503)322-0002
Lower Nehalem Watershed Council: (503)368-7424
Upper Nehalem Watershed Council: (503)429-0869
Tillamook County Soil & Water Conservation District: (503)842-2848
Tillamook Estuaries Partnership: (503)322-2222
Roger Ross Photography
CONSERVATIoN AND
restoration
The Tale of Large Woody Debris Placement
Within the Nestucca watershed, as in most watersheds, large woody debris is a
primary factor in controlling the shape of a stream channel, slowing water velocity,
and providing shelter for aquatic wildlife. Substantial logs create areas of calm water
that allow gravels to collect, creating ideal spawning habitat for salmon species. Large
wood traps sediment and organic matter, materials that make up the nutritional
foundation in most small streams. Land management practices of the last century led
to a considerable reduction of
large woody debris in streams,
triggering rapid channel
deterioration and decreasing
fish populations. Now, local
landowners, agencies, and
non-profit organizations are
teaming up to reverse the
impact of earlier practices and
large woody debris is once
again becoming a prominent
feature of our waterways.
What is a
Healthy Riparian Area?
No guidebook would be complete without a map, and no waterway is complete
without a riparian area. In all likelihood, everyone has visited a riparian area, but may
not have realized it. A riparian area is simply the vegetated corridor along the bank
of a water body. Healthy riparian areas are an important part of a thriving watershed,
consisting of a diverse mix of native plants, and trees which work together to provide
shade, inhibit erosion, and filter contaminants. High-functioning riparian areas have a
direct positive effect on water quality and habitat for salmon and other aquatic life.
The Tillamook Estuaries Partnership, along with the Tillamook County Soil and Water
Conservation District, the Nestucca, Neskowin and Sand Lake Watersheds Council,
and other partners, team up with volunteer landowners to develop and implement
enhancement plans for privately owned riparian areas. Common strategies include
the removal of invasive species and plantings of native trees and shrubs, to establish
a healthy understory that out-compete encroaching invasives. On appropriate
agricultural sites, riparian enhancement includes fencing or off-channel watering
systems for livestock. Whenever possible, these water quality improvement solutions
are provided at reduced or no cost to the landowners. Working toward improved water
quality is a community responsibility; the organizations listed above are ready to help.
THE NESTUCCA
Although they share a common purpose of creating the Nestucca Bay, the Nestucca
and Little Nestucca watersheds are each unique . Take the time and appreciate the
subtle differences as you explore these watersheds from the comfort of your nonmotorized craft.
“Life Cycle of a Salmon”, East Elementary School
Upper Nestucca
Venture 50 miles upriver from its
mouth on the edge of the Pacific
Ocean and discover the Nestucca
River’s headwaters. Flowing from
an elevation of 1,852 feet at the
McGuire Reservoir, the Nestucca
River travels west, climbing down
a thickly-forested narrow valley
to the community of Blaine.
Occupants of the upper segment of this watershed include Chinook, and Coho
salmon; and Cutthroat and Steelhead trout. Restoration efforts have reopened a
network of tributaries for fish passage and reintroduced large woody debris. The large
wood, although beneficial for the ecosystem, impedes paddling, as does the low river
levels in the warmer seasons, on this upper stretch.
Blaine to Beaver
Near the tiny community of Blaine the valley widens, dairy farms begin to appear and
the gradient lessens. Depending on the time of year, prepare to share the waterways
with avid drift boaters enjoying the emerald colored Class II - III waters in pursuit of
a winter Steelhead or fall Chinook.
Beaver to Pacific City
The array of scenery along this final lower stretch of the Nestucca is pleasing.
Riverside homes are interspersed amongst farmland and forests. Near Cloverdale the
influence of the tide is felt, the river broadens and the current starts to slow. The
modest town of Woods, with its easy access to the river and proximity to the ocean,
made a perfect spot for the first inhabitants to settle. Bustling Pacific City tempts you
with a variety of eateries, shops and activities as you reach the end of your journey.
The Little Nestucca
Hosting an impressive 71 miles
of fish-bearing tributaries,
the Little Nestucca River
takes shape in the Van Duzer
Corridor. It winds west through
dense forest land and the
historic Dolph Junction, cutting
though a narrow rocky canyon.
It then slows and widens out to
saturate a broad wetland valley
and filters into the southern
curve of the Nestucca Bay. The
Photo Contest Winner, 2nd Place -“Little Nestucca River”
Nestucca Bay National Wildlife by VanScott www.neskowin.smugmug.com
Refuge encompasses much
of the wetland area, and birding in this scenic marsh is a relaxing and rewarding
venture. Although the faster upriver stretches of the Little Nestucca are hard to
access with a boat, Little Nestucca River Rd. braids east alongside the river, and
crosses back and forth and over scenic one-lane bridges allowing any river lover
breathtaking views of the rocky salmon run.
Salmon as King
The mighty salmon is revered,
by many, as a cultural,
economical, and spiritual icon
of the western waterways.
As long as people have lived
near these waters, they have
relied on the salmon as a
food source and some regard
it as a foundation for life. It
is estimated annual runs of
salmon in South Tillamook
County were in the tens of
thousands before pioneer
settlement, giving credence to the anecdotal stories that claim “There were so
many fish I could have walked across their backs”. This abundance must have been
extraordinary to behold, and it is no wonder the Native Americans honored this
species with such devotion.
The Nestucca region was soon recognized as a premier fishing area, and as its
notoriety grew, commercial entities saw economic potential in the bountiful fishery.
The Elmore Cannery was built near the mouth of the Nestucca Bay in late 1880’s.
Profits were as plentiful as the fish for several years, but before long the salmon
runs slowed and the cannery closed in 1919. Spurred on by local concerns, citizen
efforts led to a voter approved referendum that eventually closed Nestucca Bay to
commercial fishing in 1927.
Today we understand over-harvest will eventually deplete a species and poor
management practices can diminish habitat and negatively impact water quality.
Various federal, state, and local agencies are undertaking projects re-establishing
stream complexity, improving the functionality of riparian areas, and restoring
wetlands and other freshwater and estuarine habitats. Combined with careful
harvest management practices
salmonid numbers are beginning to
show improvements. And though
today, they might be fewer in
number than long ago, salmon still
define and shape a way of life for
countless local residents and visitors.
Above: “Nestucca Bay Catch”;
Courtesy, Tillamook County Pioneer Museum
Background: “Juvenile Salmonid”; Roger Ross Photography
The Dory Story
Imagine yourself in Pacific City in the early 1900’s; the shores are dotted with
horse-drawn wagons hauling double-ended, flat-bottomed boats onto the sand.
Eager fishermen unload the vessels, called “dories”, roll them to the water on logs,
leap aboard, and begin to row through the surf zone out to the open ocean. You are
witnessing the origins of the Pacific City dory fleet. This tradition of dory fishing grew
considerably when Nestucca Bay was closed to commercial angling and fisherman
were forced to find an alternative for the “catch”. Because there were no moorings
within Nestucca Bay, ingenious fisherman decided the easiest route would be to
launch and land the dories directly on the beach at Cape Kiwanda. This daunting
task required strong respect for the ocean and an experienced hand at the helm.
Today outboard motors have been added to the dory, but even with this modern
convenience, many dorymen still row through the surf just as their fathers and
grandfathers before them. The Pacific City Dorymen’s Association, formed in 1996,
is over 300 members strong. Their mission includes promoting the values of the dory
fleet, protecting and improving public access to the beach, and supporting fishing
laws and regulations consistent with realistic conservation of the resources. Each
summer the dory fleet celebrates their unique history and distinctive traditions with
“Dory Days”. For more information visit: www.pcdorymen.com.
Above: Today, traditional non-motorized, dory boat
rowing races live on; Courtesy, Pacific City Sun
Below: Courtesy, Clyde Hudson
Shar ng the Waterways
While enjoying the water trail, be
aware of your direct impact on the
surrounding area. Your efforts will make
a difference both for the environment
and other waterway users. Fishing,
boating, and hunting are popular
around the Nestucca Bay watershed know the seasons and give ample room
for these activities. When observing
wildlife, allow adequate space so they
are not disturbed. Do not remove rocks,
plants, or other native objects, as these
create habitat for the multitude of
species living along these shores.
Public access is a privilege to us all. Out
of consideration to private landowners,
if you are unsure whether the land is
private or public, please stay off. For
more information, see Who Owns the
Waterways, Oregon Department of
State Lands.
Public access is indicated on the maps
within this guidebook. In the field, proper
access is denoted by a Tillamook County
Water Trail sign.
When exploring the outdoors, some key
concepts will help keep the environment
clean and beautiful:
• Be prepared; educate yourself
• Pack it in, pack it out
• Use public access
• Camp on hard surfaces
• Dispose of human wastes properly
• Respect wildlife and private property
• Leave it how you find it...or better
Common courtesy goes a long way on the water.
Emerging along side the long-standing
tradition of drift boat fishing, the TCWT is
hosting a new non-motorized sport - kayak
fishing. The ability to probe nooks and dodge
main channels expand the typical experience
and offer enthusiasts more to explore.
Additionally, stand up paddleboarders (SUP)
seeking remote paddling opportunities and
easy access have begun to discover the TCWT.
Trends are such that lessons and clubs for
kayak fishing and ‘SUPing’ can be found
nearly everywhere. The U.S. Coast Guard
deems SUPs as “vessels” which must abide
by boating safety laws: If outside the surf/
swim zone a life jacket and noise device
must be on board and an Oregon aquatic
invasive species (AIS) permit is required on
crafts 10’ and larger. Additionally, know local
regulations, navigation rules, and take
a boater safety course. Websites to visit:
American Canoe Association
Oregon State Marine Board
U.S. Coast Guard
Above: Janice Gaines, SUP Manzanita
Below: TEP 2012 Speaker Series - Kayak Fishing Workshop
Respect ng the Waterways
Safety is a Top Priority
Proper planning and preparation will ensure your paddling experience is a positive
one. Being knowledgeable about local weather, tides, and currents will assist in
making good boating decisions. Conditions can change rapidly. Check the current
conditions before you hit the water and include them in your trip planning.
Guidebooks, including this one, and maps should be used for reference only and no
guarantee is made as to the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the information
they contain.
South Tillamook County
Weather & Safety Information
USGS Real Time Water Data:
www.waterdata.usgs.gov
NOAA Weather: www.wrh.noaa.gov
Tide Predictions:
www.saltwatertides.com
Surf Report: www.oregonsurfcheck.com
Emergency: 9-1-1
US Coast Guard Observations:
South of Pacific City: (541)765-2124
North of Pacific City: (503)322-3531
Nestucca Rural Fire Protection and
Rescue – Pacific City: OR (503)392-3313
Artwork above: Bobby Wood
Roger Ross Photography
There are many in-water hazards to
consider; educate yourself about what
these hazards are and learn their locations.
Understand that new obstacles can arise
at any time, such as log ‘strainers’ downed trees in the water that can be life
threatening. Wearing a life jacket is critical.
Anticipate the chance of getting wet, and
dress accordingly. The water in Tillamook
County is very cold, even in summer
months. As the tide goes out, the water in
the rivers and bays moves rapidly, so plan to
paddle incoming and slack tides. If you are
new to non-motorized boating, take classes
to improve your skills and knowledge.
It is important to always paddle with a
companion and to not overestimate your
skill level.
NEW!
Be Prepared:
Free Online Paddlesports Safety Course,
offered by Oregon State Marine Board.
Learn the basics at your own pace:
www.oregon.gov/OSMB
• Wear your life jacket.
• Carry proper safety equipment.
• Preparation, knowledge, and skill building is
critical to safe paddling.
• Paddle with a companion who knows local
waterways and can assist in an emergency.
• Let someone know where you are going and
when you will be back.
• Scout for river and water hazards.
• Never grab a stationary object while
moving on swift water.
• Stay clear of a motorboat’s path.
• Position your boat perpendicular to an
approaching wake/wave.
• Wear a helmet and prepare for whitewater
above Cloverdale on the Nestucca River.
Facebook:
Tillamook County Water Trail
or visit our website: www.tbnep.org
• Dress adequately for the water temperature;
be familiar with signs of hypothermia.
• Obtain an AIS permit and carry on board.
www.dfw.state.or.us
Facebook is a registered trademark of Facebook, Inc.
Items to bring on your trip:
Life jacket
Helmet
Extra paddle
Non-cotton clothes
Paddle float
First aid kit
This map/compass/GPS
Dry bags
Rope/Knife
Bilge pump
Drinking water/food
Sunscreen
Whistle/flares/flashlights/etc.
Cell phone w/emergency numbers
(coverage can be unreliable)
Oregon Aquatic Invasive Species
(AIS) permit
dress for survival
DRESS FOR SURVIVAL by Jim Geltz
The intent of layering outdoor clothing is to keep you warm even when wet. Layering
traps the warm air of your body in and between the layers. Three insulation layers
are ideal. The layer next to your skin should be made of synthetics, silk, or wool. A
long sleeve, light weight, pullover undershirt is just right for the first layer. The next
layer is usually a medium weight, long-sleeved layer garment containing “pile”, a
material made from recycled plastic pop bottles. The outer layer can be a wind shell,
a dry suit, or another breathable and wind/water resistant garment. For rain, a quality
rain-suit is a good option. In intermittent rain, a waterproof pull-over with a hood
and venting under the sleeves works well. When paddling hard, you’ll still get damp,
but stay warm. A pull-over shell in hard rain will eventually soak through, so having
poly or pile underneath is critical. Water temperature and weather conditions should
dictate your clothing choice, not what you own.
Once wet, cotton is nearly
impossible to dry out and
robs you of your body heat 20
times faster than dry clothing.
In the Pacific Northwest,
wearing cotton clothing is
potentially hazardous because
of year-round cold water
temperatures.
Fall, winter, and spring
paddling warrants a dry suit
with gaskets in the neck,
ankles, and wrists that will
keep your layers from getting
splashed. Even in warm
summer weather, you will
want to dress not for the air
temperature, but for the water temperature, which along this coast is 50 degrees. If
you accidently go in the water in rough conditions, wearing a wet suit or a dry suit is
imperative. A hypothermic event can easily kill someone within an hour.
Dressing for on-the-water activities in appropriate
cold-water clothing can give you extra time to
perform a self-rescue or enable you to rescue
someone else. Proper layering will offer you a few
more minutes in an adverse situation.
Regardless of how you dress, the final layer is your
life jacket. If you are on the water, wear it! Once
you are in the water it’s too late to put it on and
buckle it up. Without it, your chances of survival
go down fast. It is seldom a single event that threatens your survival. Usually three
or more factors combine to create a survival situation. Without good layering and a
protective outer layer you have one strike against you before you depart. So to have
a good time when you are paddling, make safe decisions, and dress appropriately.
National Recreation Trail
Designation
In 2012, the entire Tillamook
County Water Trail system
was privileged to receive a
National Recreation Trail (NRT)
designation from the
National Park Service.
The NRT program
recognizes exemplary trails of local and regional
significance. This national network of trails provides
outstanding opportunities to enjoy America’s great
outdoors. Currently, 58 water trails have received
this national honor, TCWT is proud to be included in
this group.
RESOURCES
Weather & Conditions
Pacific City Weather: pacificcity.org/weather.html
Live Pacific City Cam/Wind & Swell Report: momentsurfco.com/live-cam
Oregon Rivers: waterdata.usgs.gov/or/nwis/rt
Tide Predictions: protides.com
Tide tables provided at local markets.
NOAA: www.wrh.noaa.gov/pqr/
Buoys: www.wrh.noaa.gov/pqr/buoys.php
Surf Report: www.oregonsurfcheck.com
Garibaldi, OR Coast Guard Observations: (503)322-3234
Depoe Bay, OR Coast Guard Observations: (541)765-2122
Road Report: tripcheck.com
Safety Information
American Canoe Association: americancanoe.org
Oregon State Marine Board Equipment and Safety Information:
www.boatoregon.com/OSMB/BoatLaws/Requirements.shtml
US Coast Guard Navigation Center - Local Notice to Mariners: navcen.uscg.gov
Instruction/Tours
Retail/Rentals
Kayak Tillamook, LLC: kayaktillamook.com
Nestucca Adventures: (503)965-0060
Moment Surf Co.: (503)483-1025
Wheeler Marina Rentals: (503)368-5780
Wheeler on the Bay Lodge: (503)368-5858
Water Trails: seakayakermag.com
Clubs/Groups
Tillamook County Water Trail: tbnep.org
Bend Paddle Trail Alliance: bendpaddletrailalliance.org
Lower Columbia Canoe Club: l-ccc.org
Oregon Kayak & Canoe Club: okcc.org
Oregon Ocean Paddling Society: oopskayak.org
Artwork: Fishprint by Alondra TEP’s 11th Annual Children’s Clean Water Festival
Transportation/Shuttles
Tillamook County Transportation District: tillamookbus.com
Original Nestucca Valley Sporting Goods: (503)392-4269
Nestucca Adventures: (503)965-0060
Chambers
Pacific City-Nestucca Valley: (503)392-4340
Manzanita-Nehalem-Wheeler: (877)368-5100
Rockaway Beach: (503)355-8108
Tillamook: (503)842-7525
Camping
Bureau of Land Management:
http://www.blm.gov/or/resources/recreation/site_info.php?siteid=238
Oregon State Parks and Recreation:
oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/
Tillamook County Parks Dept.: (503)322-3522
www.co.tillamook.or.us/gov/parks/Campgrounds.htm
Tillamook State Forest:
http://www.oregon.gov/ODF/pages/state_forests/recreation.aspx
US Forest Service:
http://www.fs.usda.gov/recarea/siuslaw/recreation/camping-cabins/recarea/?recid=42677&actid=29
Paddling Permits/Fees
Aquatic Invasive Species: www.dfw.state.or.us/online_license_sales/index.asp
Oregon State Parks Day Use Fees: www.oregon.gov/OPRD/PARKS/dayuse_permit.shtml
Tillamook County Boat Launch Fees:
www.co.tillamook.or.us/gov/Parks/BoatLaunchFees.htm
Other
Wildlife Center of the North Coast: (503)338-0331
www.coastwildlife.org
(If you encounter injured wildlife)
The Watersheds of Sand lake,
Nestucca, and Neskowin
1 MILE
Nehalem
Bay
Legend
Nehalem Bay
State Park
for following section maps
N
Wheeler
Public Access Flatwater
Public Access Whitewater
15
Highway
Mileposts
US Forest
Service
Flow Direction
10
River Miles
Parks
Private Land Do not access
Wetlands
Local Gov’t.
Bureau of Land
Management
Mud Flats
Oregon Dept.
of Forestry
US Fish &
Wildlife Service
Disabled
Access
Common
Kayak Access
Wildlife
Viewing
Lodging
Camping
Restroom
Motorized
Boat Ramp
Picnic Area
Drinking
Water
Food
101
Rockaway Beach
Pacific
Ocean
This guidebook cannot alert you to every hazard or
anticipate the reader’s abilities. The content within these
maps is in no way a guarantee that any area is safe or
unsafe. People using this guidebook must understand their
own limitations, paddle within their abilities, and assume full
responsibility for their own safety.
Garibaldi
All designated access sites are owned by public entities, fees
may be charged. Roads leading to denoted areas are accessible with 2-wheel drive vehicles, although for remote sites,
4-wheel drive may be necessary under some conditions. No
warranty is made by TEP as to the accuracy, reliability or
completeness of information contained in this guidebook.
Bay
City
Tillamook
Bay
Cape
Meares
6
Oceanside
Tillamook
Netarts
.1
wy
H
31
Netarts
Bay
Cape Lookout
State Park
Clay Myers
State Natural
Area
Beaver
Castle Rock Campground 4.5 miles east of Hebo, free,
minimal sites, vault-toilets.
Bob Straub
State Park
Nestucca
Bay
Watershed
Bou
ndary
L it
Nestucca Bay
National
Wildlife Refuge
Bou
nda
ry
Cloverdale
Pacific City
Hebo Lake Campground 12 sites, open seasonally,
vault toilets and water. Small
lake with ADA fishing access,
paddling, and hiking year
round.
Hebo
Nes tucca
Cape Kiwanda
State Park
15
Watershed
he
Waters
Sand Lake
Estuary
Riv e r
ar y
ound
dB
t le
cc
stu
Ne
aR
i
Bu
tt e
r
ve
Ck
Lit tle
Neskowin
.
Ck
Hawk
Ck
.
iver Rd.
d
rsh e
Wate
Nesk
ow
in
Nestucca R
ary
Boun
d
Van Duzer Corridor
State Park
101
18
22
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Help Stop the Spread of Aquatic Invasives
U. S. Geological Survey
Aquatic invasive species are a serious threat to Oregon’s waterways. Introduction and
spread of harmful non-native species can upset the delicate balance of our fragile
ecosystems. Aquatic invasive species are often spread between waterways by hitching
a ride on boats and gear.
CLEAN your boat and gear thoroughly before
transferring to a new water body.
These tiny New Zealand Mudsnails can
easily transport themselves on boots,
boats and gear, and have been found in
Tillamook County.
DRAIN, remove, and empty all compartments of your
watercraft. Rinse well including areas that may trap mud
and debris.
DRY your boat and gear.
More info: www.boatoregon.com/OSMB/Clean/ANS.shtml
REPORT INVASIVES: If you think you have found an
invasive species, call the hotline: 1-866-INVADER
The Nature Conservancy
Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Permits are
required on all crafts 10’ or longer. More info:
Above: Knotweed is spreading rapidly in
Oregon riparian ecosystems. These tall
and robust plants are commonly seen in
the lower rivers. Below: Yellow Flag Iris This aquatic invader can be mistaken for
cattails when not in flower.
Alison Fox
www.boatoregon.com/OSMB/
Eurasion Water Milfoil Currently found in many Oregon waterbodies.
University of Florida, Bugwood.org
Popular SOUTH COUNTY Trips
Little Nestucca River
Meda Loop Boat Launch to Pacific City Boat Launch
Considerations: 3 miles; 2 hours; Beginner - Intermediate
High tide launch in order to paddle with the outgoing tide.
Afternoon winds off the ocean can create choppy water.
Excellent scenery, birding, and wildlife viewing. Launch fee.
This Little Nestucca River paddle will take you up the river through the Nestucca
Bay National Wildlife Refuge’s wetlands, or out to Nestucca Bay. Pastures meld into
dense forests of Red Alder and Sitka Spruce. The forested areas and the many gnarled
washed out logs and roots of the Refuge harbor much wildlife. As you round the
middle bend, Cape Kiwanda and Haystack Rock reside in the distance. Paddling the
shallow bay now, navigating mud flats at low tide, it’s hard to imagine that for a
short time at the turn of the 20th century this area boasted a thriving commercial
fishery. The abundance of salmon generated enough income to support a cannery
and brought many large commercial vessels to the Port. In less than 40 years, fish
populations plummeted and navigability
issues led to the closure of the Elmore
Cannery in 1919.
Access: Traveling south on Hwy. 101,
approximately 26 miles south of
Tillamook, take a left on Meda Loop Rd.
past mile marker 91. The boat launch
is the first immediate left. Access: The
Pacific City County Boat Launch is west
on Pacific Ave, left on Sunset drive, left
towards destination - follow signs for
Bob Straub State Park.
Above: Elmore Cannery, Pacific City, Oregon
Background: “Fishing the Nestucca”
Courtesy, Tillamook County Pioneer Museum
Nestucca River
Bixby County Boat Launch to Three Rivers County Boat Launch
Considerations: 5 miles; 2 hours; Class I; Beginner - Intermediate
Moving water and small riffles; Water level is ideal at
5’ - 7’ on NOAA’s hydrologic gauge near Beaver, OR.
Plan for peak angling Fall through Winter. Launch fee.
If you prefer the river to do some of the work and a small thrill, this is your run. This
scenic stretch is enveloped in natural beauty. Quick-moving water zips you past
wide-leaf maples and through a bountiful salmon and steelhead run. The hazy blue
Nestucca is a popular fly fishing and drift boat destination, so prepare to share the
waterway with fishermen trying to land the “big one”. Low water may require portage
near Farmer Creek.
Access: Headed south on Hwy. 101 take a left (east) on Blaine Road in Beaver, OR.
Drive .5 miles and turn right onto Bixby Road. Follow 1.3 miles to the dead end and
the launch site. This site is a sandy put-in with minimal parking and no restroom.
To find the take-out, head south on Hwy. 101, turn right (west) on Hanson Rd. just
south of Hebo. Follow .3 miles to a three way intersection and turn right. Follow to
the end to the boat launch. There is a three dollar day use fee and a port-a-toilet
with plenty of parking.
Nestucca Bay National Wildlife Refuge by Tim Moore
Three Rivers County Boat Launch to Cloverdale
Considerations: 2.75 miles; 2.5 hours; Class I; Beginner - Intermediate
Some minor moving water; once the gauge has dropped below 6’
you could be dragging your boat. Launch fee at each facility.
This short but fulfilling run is perfect for anyone that is seeking a quick peek at the
magnificent scenery that is inherent to the Nestucca watershed. One of the least
populated stretches of the river, this section winds through some of south Tillamook
County’s finest cattle country. Access: Three Rivers County Boat Launch is located
just south of Hebo. Turn right (west) on Hanson Rd. Follow .3 miles to a three way
intersection and turn right. Follow to the end to the boat launch. There is a three
dollar day use fee and a port-a-toilet with plenty of parking. The take-out for the
Cloverdale launch is found behind the post office.
Photo Contest Winner, 3rd Place, “The Nestucca River,” Charlie Wooldridge
Lower Nestucca
Cloverdale Boat L