Cultural History Engagement for Multnomah County Drainage District

Multnomah County, OR | 2022

In the wake of Hurricane Katrina, FEMA and the US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) significantly increased levee safety standards for local levee managers including the Multnomah County Drainage Districts. To bring the Columbia Corridor levee system up to federal standards, the Oregon State Legislature passed ORS 550 to create a new district to take over the management of the flood protection system. This statute also required the integration of cultural history, equity, and environmental benefits into flood management practices.

As the new district takes shape, Cascadia Partners was contracted by MCDD to begin building awareness and relationships with community-based organizations about the new district mandates, and understand the types of cultural history programming and funding needs and aspirations of local community organizations to inform future operating budget needs.

Cascadia Partners conducted one-on-one interviews with 18 community stakeholders and organizations representing and serving Indigenous, BIPOC, and other culturally-specific communities with connections to the managed floodplain. We developed a StoryMap to summarize stories and ideas we heard for the MCDD Board including powerful audio excerpts from interviews about the importance of remembering the past, honoring our elders and ancestors, and keeping stories and cultural connections alive. Check it out here.

This work has led to the continuation of the new district building relationships with community organizations and potential partners in flood safety work. Cascadia Partners is currently working with MCDD on engagement and outreach for Flood Safe Columbia River, an initiative to raise awareness about the Columbia River’s flood protection system, growing flood risks, and a General Obligation Bond Referral in 2024 to fund major upgrades to the system.