We are Nesika Wilamut
We are an indigenous-led network that focuses on the health of the Willamette River through a social justice lens.
A River's Journey Continues: The Next Chapter of Indigenous Stewardship
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As we reflect on our journey since 2019, we are filled with gratitude for the deep connections, meaningful partnerships, and transformative work that has defined Nesika Wilamut ("our Willamette" in Chinuk Wawa). Today, we announce an important transition in our organization's path.
While funding constraints have led to the decision to sunset Nesika Wilamut's operations, we are proud of the foundation we've built together. Our network has demonstrated the profound impact of centering Indigenous perspectives in river and land stewardship throughout the Willamette watershed. Our Journey Together Through collaborative events, knowledge sharing, and community-driven projects, we've fostered partnerships between Indigenous communities and environmental organizations that honor both the land and its original stewards. The relationships formed and the understanding gained will continue to influence watershed stewardship for generations to come. Looking Forward: The Wilamut Legacy Fund As part of our transition, we are excited to announce The Wilamut Legacy Fund, a significant funding opportunity for our network partners. This initiative will distribute over $100,000 to support projects that advance Indigenous perspectives in river and land stewardship across the Willamette watershed. Through this fund, we ensure that the spirit and mission of Nesika Wilamut will continue to flow through our communities, carried forward by the dedicated partners who have been essential to our work. A Message of Gratitude To our Indigenous Advisory Council, Founding Board Members, network partners, supporters, and community members: thank you. Your commitment to Indigenous-led conservation and watershed stewardship has made Nesika Wilamut's work possible. While our organizational structure may be changing, the relationships we've built and the vision we share for the Willamette watershed remain strong. We look forward to seeing how our partners will carry this important work forward in new and inspiring ways. 
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the wilamut legacy fund:
advancing indigenous river stewardship
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As we prepare to close Nesika Wilamut's operations, we are distributing our remaining funds through a one-time gift called The Wilamut Legacy Fund. We invite our network partners to apply for funding to continue the vital work of Indigenous-led river stewardship.
This final investment in our network partners ensures that Indigenous perspectives and leadership will remain central to river and land stewardship in the Willamette watershed, carrying forward the relationships and progress we've built together. |
What's In a Name?Nesika Wilamut means "Our Wilamette" in Chinuk Wawa. Read more about our name, including how to pronounce it and the history of the language from which it's derived.
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Get To Know UsOur staff and Indigenous Advisory Council are committed to furthering river health, sustainability, Tribal sovereignty, environmental justice and youth leadership development.
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