Michael Cairns Wetland Project

Michael's Wetland is located north of Riverside Park in Independence, along Deann Drive. In Spring 2025, two new educational stations were installed that celebrate Michael's legacy and help inspire a watershed stewardship ethic within our local community. These informational displays have been made possible through an outpouring of community support and donations by friends and family. They will stand as lasting monuments to Michael's dedication and commitment to wetland conservation!

The History of Michael's Wetland

MIchael's wetland is part of an area officially known as Hayden Slough. This spot was once a mix of farmland and forest, with natural ponding and seasonal drainage occurring in the low-lying swale. Over time, this natural hydrology was altered through tiling and drainage to support agricultural use. In 2009, wetland restoration efforts began as part of a mitigation project tied to the City of Independence’s development of the nearby ball fields and boat ramp at the Sports Park. Local conservationist Michael Cairns played a key role in initiating and shaping the restoration, providing vision and leadership throughout the process. The PDF below includes a series of photos taken between 2011 and 2016, offering a visual timeline of the wetland’s transformation and the steady growth of native vegetation over the years.

Wetland Plant Identification

Wetland Animal Identification

Explore the beauty and importance of native wetland plants in our region—from grasses and wildflowers to shrubs and trees. Learn how these species support wildlife, prevent erosion, and play a vital role in healthy waterways and wetlands.

Wetland plants

From soaring eagles and stately herons to tiny frogs and buzzing dragonflies, wetlands are full of life. Click below to explore some of the amazing animals that call these special places home!

Wetland Animals

Michael Cairns: A Watershed Champion

Michael and fellow Central Lions Club member, Steve Moser, plant native vegetation along Ash Creek.

Michael surveying the log placement at one of the LWC's earliest in-stream restoration projects at Vincent Creek.

Michael Cairns (front, left) and LWC volunteers accept the 2009 Landscape Stewardship Award from the Public Lands Foundation.

Michael Cairns was a visionary leader and a champion for both environmental and social causes in the Monmouth and Independence communities. Back in 1999, he played a key role in establishing the Luckiamute Watershed Council and after retirement, was the LWC's first manager. Part of his legacy is a beautifully designed wetland near the Willamette River just west of the Independence Sports Park, which is thriving now with a wide diversity of native plants, birds, and other wildlife. He was also instrumental in restoring the health and improving the streamside habitat of Ash Creek at what is now OSU Extension's Mt. Fir Inspiration Gardens.