Rod Park

Whether you're a green thumb or a greenhorn, Metro has an activity for you. From learning to playing and relaxing to volunteering, activities occur throughout the region. This week, join Metro to learn about composting, sing songs from the Oregon Trail, discover Oregon's wild animals, look for osprey at Oxbow or discover the secret to a perfect lawn. Most of the events are free and registration can be completed online. Follow the links below for more information.

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On June 10, my colleagues and I completed a years-long process that will guide regional land use for the next five decades. In what many described as a historic moment, the Metro Council designated 28,615 acres of urban reserves around the region. For the next fifty years, when Metro considers expanding the urban growth boundary, the focus will be on these lands. Choosing land for urbanization was a thoughtful and painstaking process. Although I'm proud of the innovative approach we've undertaken, I would like to take the opportunity to explain why I opposed the final product.

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With temperatures expected in the high 90s this week, residents should consider staying cool through some of Metro's unique offerings. Adjacent to the swim beach at Blue Lake Park, the water spray ground is a convenient substitute for those who are unable to make it into swim area.Oxbow Regional Park's ancient forest can also provide cooler temperatures. Under the dense canopy, trees provide natural air conditioning for those looking to hike the trails, spot some wildlife or just get out of the sun.

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You don't have to go far to find the perfect spot for the family vacation or a quick weekend retreat. Just pack up the kids and the camping gear and head to Metro's Oxbow Regional Park located along the scenic Sandy River in Troutdale for some nature, family fun and music. This summer, overnight campers on Friday and Saturday nights will be treated to old-fashioned entertainment in the outdoor forest amphitheater across from the campground. Camping at Oxbow provides not only a fun getaway but an affordable one as well. The camping fee is $20 per night and the entertainment on Friday and Saturday nights is free. The park's 67 campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis and each include a picnic table, fire pit/cooking grill and lantern pole.

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A new regional strategy for green economic development in the Portland metropolitan area identifies six action areas to grow green jobs. A working group of the Climate Prosperity Project released what is called the Greenprint strategy Tuesday, June 23, at Greenlight Greater Portland's third annual economic summit.

The Climate Prosperity Project is a partnership of businesses, non-profit organizations and local governments, including Metro. Its Greenprint draft report recommends actions ranging from identifying finance mechanisms for green innovation to developing a pipeline of green talent.

Metro Council President David Bragdon and councilors Rex Burkholder, Carlotta Collette and Kathryn Harrington were among the more than 500 local leaders and business representatives on hand to learn about the need to foster green economic development.

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