The tour began at Tualatin River NWR with visits to several formerly restored units of the refuge, the site of new visitor service facilities currently under construction, and the Oleson parcel which is targeted for completing an upcoming 232 acre restoration project. The day concluded with a tour of the entire perimeter of the Wapato Lake study area.

Specific topics of discussion included the status of land acquisition; techniques commonly used for restoring and managing floodplain habitats of the refuge; the status of visitor service facilities under construction, as well as future plans for visitor facilities; and how refuge partners make all of these programs possible.

The tour of the Wapato Lake area focused on how the project was started; opportunities for conserving and restoring significant wildlife resource values and imperiled landscapes the area historically supported; potential partners for the project; what land use and water issues the refuge has worked through as part of the planning process; and steps which remain to complete the process.

Refuge staff appreciated the opportunity to share with Congressman Wu's office the history, resource value and management practices of refuge lands and how they fit into the greater Portland area. The Refuge looks forward to future communications and opportunities for expanding an already excellent relationship with Congressman Wu and his staff.