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• 1. [Article] Overcoming Uncertainty and Barriers to Adoption of Blue-Green Infrastructure for Urban Flood Risk Management

  Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are increasingly recognised as vital components of urban flood risk management. However, uncertainty regarding their hydrologic performance ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Overcoming Uncertainty and Barriers to Adoption of Blue-Green Infrastructure for Urban Flood Risk Management Author: Thorne, Colin R., Lawson, E. C., Ozawa, Connie P., Hamlin, Samantha, Smith, Leonard A. Year: 2015 Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are increasingly recognised as vital components of urban flood risk management. However, uncertainty regarding their hydrologic performance and lack of confidence concerning their public acceptability create concerns and challenges that limit their widespread adoption. This paper investigates barriers to implementation of BGI in Portland, Oregon, using the Relevant Dominant Uncertainty (RDU) approach. Two types of RDU are identified: scientific RDUs related to physical processes that affect infrastructure performance and service provision, and socio-political RDUs that reflect a lack of confidence in socio-political structures and public preferences for BGI. We find that socio-political RDUs currently exert the strongest negative influences on BGI decision making in Portland.We conclude that identification and management of both biophysical and socio-political uncertainties are essential to broadening the implementation of BGI and sustainable urban flood risk management solutions that are practical, scientifically sound, and supported by local stakeholders. Title: Overcoming Uncertainty and Barriers to Adoption of Blue-Green Infrastructure for Urban Flood Risk Management Author: Thorne, Colin R., Lawson, E. C., Ozawa, Connie P., Hamlin, Samantha, Smith, Leonard A. Year: 2015 Blue-Green Infrastructure (BGI) and Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) are increasingly recognised as vital components of urban flood risk management. However, uncertainty regarding their hydrologic performance and lack of confidence concerning their public acceptability create concerns and challenges that limit their widespread adoption. This paper investigates barriers to implementation of BGI in Portland, Oregon, using the Relevant Dominant Uncertainty (RDU) approach. Two types of RDU are identified: scientific RDUs related to physical processes that affect infrastructure performance and service provision, and socio-political RDUs that reflect a lack of confidence in socio-political structures and public preferences for BGI. We find that socio-political RDUs currently exert the strongest negative influences on BGI decision making in Portland.We conclude that identification and management of both biophysical and socio-political uncertainties are essential to broadening the implementation of BGI and sustainable urban flood risk management solutions that are practical, scientifically sound, and supported by local stakeholders. Close

• 2. [Article] Holgate Lake Study: An Examination of the Issues Associated with Groundwater Flooding

  This project examines Holgate Lake. Despite its natural hazard characteristics, the Holgate Lake area has not been immune to development pressure. Holgate Lake is an intermittent water body that forms ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Holgate Lake Study: An Examination of the Issues Associated with Groundwater Flooding Author: Lynch, John J., Jr., Mader, Heidi A., McCann, Mark Year: 1999 This project examines Holgate Lake. Despite its natural hazard characteristics, the Holgate Lake area has not been immune to development pressure. Holgate Lake is an intermittent water body that forms when groundwater levels rise. Historical accounts show that the lake has formed at many different times in the last century. Because the lake fluctuates with the groundwater level, it is not necessarily present from year to year. As the area has developed, more and more people built in the location of the natural lakebed when the water was not present. When the lake level returned in the 1960's flooding of homes in the area became a significant concern. The water remained for up to three months at a time, causing people to leave their homes and belongings behind. A period of dry weather persisted through the 1970's and 1980's, which lowered the level of concern about the lake's potential impacts. Due in part to the lower level 0 concern, development continued to occur in the area. However, the concerns returned in 1996 and 1997 when the lake level rose and inundated the area. These events refocused the City of Portland's attention on this area and its flooding issues. Title: Holgate Lake Study: An Examination of the Issues Associated with Groundwater Flooding Author: Lynch, John J., Jr., Mader, Heidi A., McCann, Mark Year: 1999 This project examines Holgate Lake. Despite its natural hazard characteristics, the Holgate Lake area has not been immune to development pressure. Holgate Lake is an intermittent water body that forms when groundwater levels rise. Historical accounts show that the lake has formed at many different times in the last century. Because the lake fluctuates with the groundwater level, it is not necessarily present from year to year. As the area has developed, more and more people built in the location of the natural lakebed when the water was not present. When the lake level returned in the 1960's flooding of homes in the area became a significant concern. The water remained for up to three months at a time, causing people to leave their homes and belongings behind. A period of dry weather persisted through the 1970's and 1980's, which lowered the level of concern about the lake's potential impacts. Due in part to the lower level 0 concern, development continued to occur in the area. However, the concerns returned in 1996 and 1997 when the lake level rose and inundated the area. These events refocused the City of Portland's attention on this area and its flooding issues. Close

• 3. [Article] Delivering Green Streets: an Exploration of Changing Perceptions and Behaviours Over Time Around Bioswales in Portland, Oregon

  Green Infrastructure (GI) is an increasingly popular means of dealing with flooding and water quality issues worldwide. This study examines public perceptions of, and behaviour around, bioswales, which ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Delivering Green Streets: an Exploration of Changing Perceptions and Behaviours Over Time Around Bioswales in Portland, Oregon Author: Everett, Glyn, Lamond, Jessica, Morzillo, Anita T., Matsler, Annie Marissa, Chan, Faith Ka Shun Year: 2015 Green Infrastructure (GI) is an increasingly popular means of dealing with flooding and water quality issues worldwide. This study examines public perceptions of, and behaviour around, bioswales, which are a popular GI facility in the United States. Bioswales are highly visible interventions requiring support from residents and policy-makers to be implemented and maintained appropriately. To understand how the residents’ perceptions and attitudes might develop over time, we interviewed residents of Portland, Oregon, living near bioswales installed 1–2, 4–5 and 8–9 years ago, to determine awareness, understanding, and opinions about the devices. We found no consistent patterns across time periods, but did find common issues affecting residents’ appreciation and acceptance: environmental attitudes, awareness and understanding of purpose and function, plant choice and maintenance, and mess and littering. It was apparent that increased public engagement, localised maintenance strategies, and possibly even customising facilities to meet residents’ needs where feasible, might improve acceptance. Title: Delivering Green Streets: an Exploration of Changing Perceptions and Behaviours Over Time Around Bioswales in Portland, Oregon Author: Everett, Glyn, Lamond, Jessica, Morzillo, Anita T., Matsler, Annie Marissa, Chan, Faith Ka Shun Year: 2015 Green Infrastructure (GI) is an increasingly popular means of dealing with flooding and water quality issues worldwide. This study examines public perceptions of, and behaviour around, bioswales, which are a popular GI facility in the United States. Bioswales are highly visible interventions requiring support from residents and policy-makers to be implemented and maintained appropriately. To understand how the residents’ perceptions and attitudes might develop over time, we interviewed residents of Portland, Oregon, living near bioswales installed 1–2, 4–5 and 8–9 years ago, to determine awareness, understanding, and opinions about the devices. We found no consistent patterns across time periods, but did find common issues affecting residents’ appreciation and acceptance: environmental attitudes, awareness and understanding of purpose and function, plant choice and maintenance, and mess and littering. It was apparent that increased public engagement, localised maintenance strategies, and possibly even customising facilities to meet residents’ needs where feasible, might improve acceptance. Close

• 4. [Article] A People's Plan for Overcoming the Hurricane Katrina Blues: A Comprehensive Strategy for Building a More Vibrant, Sustainable, and Equitable 9th Ward

  The Peoples’ Plan is a strategic action plan for the recovery of the 9th Ward. We’ve created it based on conversations with residents – some struggling to return home, others intent on remaining in a neighborhood ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: A People's Plan for Overcoming the Hurricane Katrina Blues: A Comprehensive Strategy for Building a More Vibrant, Sustainable, and Equitable 9th Ward Author: Hayes, Richard, Reardon, Ken, Bates, Lisa K. Year: 2007 The Peoples’ Plan is a strategic action plan for the recovery of the 9th Ward. We’ve created it based on conversations with residents – some struggling to return home, others intent on remaining in a neighborhood that has always been there own. The Peoples’ Plan provides a thorough assessment of what must be done to provide recovery in one of the hardest hit areas of the City, and provides a recovery model for all badly flooded areas. Our Plan seeks to transform the 9th Ward as it is rebuilt. The proposed transformation will be resident-driven and will provide improved employment opportunities, better education programs as well as greater access to healthcare, childcare and numerous other community services. Title: A People's Plan for Overcoming the Hurricane Katrina Blues: A Comprehensive Strategy for Building a More Vibrant, Sustainable, and Equitable 9th Ward Author: Hayes, Richard, Reardon, Ken, Bates, Lisa K. Year: 2007 The Peoples’ Plan is a strategic action plan for the recovery of the 9th Ward. We’ve created it based on conversations with residents – some struggling to return home, others intent on remaining in a neighborhood that has always been there own. The Peoples’ Plan provides a thorough assessment of what must be done to provide recovery in one of the hardest hit areas of the City, and provides a recovery model for all badly flooded areas. Our Plan seeks to transform the 9th Ward as it is rebuilt. The proposed transformation will be resident-driven and will provide improved employment opportunities, better education programs as well as greater access to healthcare, childcare and numerous other community services. Close

• 5. [Article] Vernonia 2020 Vision: A Plan for the Future

  The Vernonia 2020 Vision Plan was an endeavor by the City of Vernonia to involve citizens in long-term resiliency planning and visioning to complement the short-term recovery effort following a 500-year ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Vernonia 2020 Vision: A Plan for the Future Author: Berkow, Mathew, Ellis, Maria, Eshel, Oren, Kaur, Harleen, Lingley, Terra, Maher, Colin, Shackman, Stephen, Tipper, Ariana, Zaninovich, George Year: 2008 The Vernonia 2020 Vision Plan was an endeavor by the City of Vernonia to involve citizens in long-term resiliency planning and visioning to complement the short-term recovery effort following a 500-year flood in December 2007. Bridges Planning Group facilitated the process, over the course of which residents identified the highest-priority barriers to resiliency and past and present efforts to overcome these barriers. This project was conducted under the supervision of Sy Adler and Ethan Seltzer. Title: Vernonia 2020 Vision: A Plan for the Future Author: Berkow, Mathew, Ellis, Maria, Eshel, Oren, Kaur, Harleen, Lingley, Terra, Maher, Colin, Shackman, Stephen, Tipper, Ariana, Zaninovich, George Year: 2008 The Vernonia 2020 Vision Plan was an endeavor by the City of Vernonia to involve citizens in long-term resiliency planning and visioning to complement the short-term recovery effort following a 500-year flood in December 2007. Bridges Planning Group facilitated the process, over the course of which residents identified the highest-priority barriers to resiliency and past and present efforts to overcome these barriers. This project was conducted under the supervision of Sy Adler and Ethan Seltzer. Close

• 6. [Article] Winds of Change? Exploring Climate Change-Driven Migration and Related Impacts in the Pacific Northwest

  Climate change is expected to have significant impacts on the Pacific Northwest’s communities, economy, and natural systems. These impacts – which include reductions in summer water supply, the potential ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Winds of Change? Exploring Climate Change-Driven Migration and Related Impacts in the Pacific Northwest Author: Binder, Lara Whitely, Jurjevich, Jason R. Year: 2016 Climate change is expected to have significant impacts on the Pacific Northwest’s communities, economy, and natural systems. These impacts – which include reductions in summer water supply, the potential for more winter flooding and forest fires, threats to public health, and damage to coastal infrastructure due to sea level rise – will require changes in how communities evaluate, manage, and mitigate environmental risks. Despite these challenges, some have suggested that the region may be relatively well off compared to other areas of the U.S. and the world. This has led to growing speculation by the media, bloggers, and the public that “global warming could unleash a deluge of newcomers” (or “climate refugees”) to the Pacific Northwest in coming years.2The question is also gaining the attention of public sector professionals in the region. Planners and managers who engage in long-term planning for transportation, public health, utilities, and other public services want to understand whether population forecasts—an important analytical tool guiding many areas of regional planning—should reflect the possible impacts of climate change on migration flows, and if so, how? The connection between climate change and migration is the subject of a complex and emerging body of social science research. To help stimulate and inform research, and to provide guidance to decision makers on this issue, researchers at Portland State University and the University of Washington Climate Impacts Group convened experts in climate science, population dynamics, and public sector management to begin addressing the following central question: Do we need to be planning for more growth in Washington and Oregon because of climate change, and if so, what would a systematic framework for developing and updating migration scenarios for use in regional and state population growth and planning forecasts look like? The symposium—the first of its kind in the region and possibly the first of its kind in the United States—was held on June 24, 2016 at Portland State University. Title: Winds of Change? Exploring Climate Change-Driven Migration and Related Impacts in the Pacific Northwest Author: Binder, Lara Whitely, Jurjevich, Jason R. Year: 2016 Climate change is expected to have significant impacts on the Pacific Northwest’s communities, economy, and natural systems. These impacts – which include reductions in summer water supply, the potential for more winter flooding and forest fires, threats to public health, and damage to coastal infrastructure due to sea level rise – will require changes in how communities evaluate, manage, and mitigate environmental risks. Despite these challenges, some have suggested that the region may be relatively well off compared to other areas of the U.S. and the world. This has led to growing speculation by the media, bloggers, and the public that “global warming could unleash a deluge of newcomers” (or “climate refugees”) to the Pacific Northwest in coming years.2The question is also gaining the attention of public sector professionals in the region. Planners and managers who engage in long-term planning for transportation, public health, utilities, and other public services want to understand whether population forecasts—an important analytical tool guiding many areas of regional planning—should reflect the possible impacts of climate change on migration flows, and if so, how? The connection between climate change and migration is the subject of a complex and emerging body of social science research. To help stimulate and inform research, and to provide guidance to decision makers on this issue, researchers at Portland State University and the University of Washington Climate Impacts Group convened experts in climate science, population dynamics, and public sector management to begin addressing the following central question: Do we need to be planning for more growth in Washington and Oregon because of climate change, and if so, what would a systematic framework for developing and updating migration scenarios for use in regional and state population growth and planning forecasts look like? The symposium—the first of its kind in the region and possibly the first of its kind in the United States—was held on June 24, 2016 at Portland State University. Close

• 7. [Article] Impacts of Climate Change and Urban Development on Water Resources in the Tualatin River Basin

  Potential impacts of climate change on the water resources of the Pacific Northwest of the United States include earlier peak runoff, reduced summer flows, and increased winter flooding. An increase in ...

  Citation × Citation Citation Abstract Copy Title: Impacts of Climate Change and Urban Development on Water Resources in the Tualatin River Basin Author: Praskievicz, Sarah Year: 2009 Potential impacts of climate change on the water resources of the Pacific Northwest of the United States include earlier peak runoff, reduced summer flows, and increased winter flooding. An increase in impervious surfaces, accompanied by urban development, is known to decrease infiltration and increase surface runoff. Alterations of flow amount and pathways can alter water quality through dilution or flushing effects. I used the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Better Assessment Science Integrating Point and Nonpoint Sources (BASINS) modeling system to investigate the relative importance of future climate change and land use change in determining the quantity and quality of freshwater resources in north western Oregon's Tualatin River Basin. The basin was chosen for this study because it is rapidly urbanizing and representative of other low-elevation basins in the region. BASINS models were calibrated and validated using historic flow and water quality data from 1991 to 2006. The goodness-of-fit for the calibrated hydrology, suspended sediment, and orthophosphate models was high, with coefficients of determination ranging from 0.72 to 0.93 in the calibration period. The calibrated models were run under a range of eight downscaled climate change, two regional land use change, and four combined scenarios. Results included average increases in winter flows of ten percent, decreases in summer flows of thirty-seven percent, and increases in fifth percentile flows of up to eighty percent as a result of climate change in the Tualatin River Basin. For land use change, the results included an increase in annual flows of twenty-one percent for the development-oriented scenario and a decrease of sixteen percent for the conservation-oriented scenario, with amplified changes at the sub-basin scale, including more than doubled winter flow. For combined scenarios of climate change and urban development, there is a projected increase in winter flows of up to seventy-one percent and decrease in summer flows of up to forty-eight percent. Changes in suspended sediment and orthophosphate loading broadly tracked hydrological changes, with winter increases and summer decreases. The results are relevant to regional planners interested in the long-term response of water resources to climate change and land use change at the basin scale. Title: Impacts of Climate Change and Urban Development on Water Resources in the Tualatin River Basin Author: Praskievicz, Sarah Year: 2009 Potential impacts of climate change on the water resources of the Pacific Northwest of the United States include earlier peak runoff, reduced summer flows, and increased winter flooding. An increase in impervious surfaces, accompanied by urban development, is known to decrease infiltration and increase surface runoff. Alterations of flow amount and pathways can alter water quality through dilution or flushing effects. I used the United States Environmental Protection Agency's Better Assessment Science Integrating Point and Nonpoint Sources (BASINS) modeling system to investigate the relative importance of future climate change and land use change in determining the quantity and quality of freshwater resources in north western Oregon's Tualatin River Basin. The basin was chosen for this study because it is rapidly urbanizing and representative of other low-elevation basins in the region. BASINS models were calibrated and validated using historic flow and water quality data from 1991 to 2006. The goodness-of-fit for the calibrated hydrology, suspended sediment, and orthophosphate models was high, with coefficients of determination ranging from 0.72 to 0.93 in the calibration period. The calibrated models were run under a range of eight downscaled climate change, two regional land use change, and four combined scenarios. Results included average increases in winter flows of ten percent, decreases in summer flows of thirty-seven percent, and increases in fifth percentile flows of up to eighty percent as a result of climate change in the Tualatin River Basin. For land use change, the results included an increase in annual flows of twenty-one percent for the development-oriented scenario and a decrease of sixteen percent for the conservation-oriented scenario, with amplified changes at the sub-basin scale, including more than doubled winter flow. For combined scenarios of climate change and urban development, there is a projected increase in winter flows of up to seventy-one percent and decrease in summer flows of up to forty-eight percent. Changes in suspended sediment and orthophosphate loading broadly tracked hydrological changes, with winter increases and summer decreases. The results are relevant to regional planners interested in the long-term response of water resources to climate change and land use change at the basin scale. Close