The Willamette River, From Open Sewer to Swimmers’ Paradise episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 2, 2025 · 19 MIN

The Willamette River, From Open Sewer to Swimmers’ Paradise

from City Cast Portland · host City Cast

Portland’s relationship with the Willamette River has taken on many forms throughout history, from aiding the industrial boom to functioning as a literal sewer. And while many people see it every day, few realize just how much it’s shaped modern-day Portland. Today, we’re revisiting a conversation with our resident Oregon historian, Doug Kenck-Crispin, about the Willamette River’s wild past.  This conversation first aired on June 6, 2024 Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at [email protected], or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 2nd episode: OMSI Portland Timbers

Portland’s relationship with the Willamette River has taken on many forms throughout history, from aiding the industrial boom to functioning as a literal sewer. And while many people see it every day, few realize just how much it’s shaped modern-day Portland. Today, we’re revisiting a conversation with our resident Oregon historian, Doug Kenck-Crispin, about the Willamette River’s wild past.  This conversation first aired on June 6, 2024 Become a member of City Cast Portland today! Get all the details and sign up here.  Who would you like to hear on City Cast Portland? Shoot us an email at [email protected], or leave us a voicemail at 503-208-5448. Want more Portland news? Then make sure to sign up for our morning newsletter, Hey Portland, and be sure to follow us on Instagram.  Looking to advertise on City Cast Portland? Check out our options for podcast and newsletter ads at citycast.fm/advertise. Learn more about the sponsors of this June 2nd episode: OMSI Portland Timbers

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The Willamette River, From Open Sewer to Swimmers’ Paradise

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How long is this episode of City Cast Portland?

This episode is 19 minutes long.

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This episode was published on June 2, 2025.

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Portland’s relationship with the Willamette River has taken on many forms throughout history, from aiding the industrial boom to functioning as a literal sewer. And while many people see it every day, few realize just how much it’s shaped modern-day...

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