The mission of the UFSWQD is to equitably reduce flood risk and prepare for and respond to flood emergencies by maintaining levees, conveying water when necessary, and finding innovative and nature-based ways to live with more water around us while supporting community safety and the region’s economic vitality, contributing to the health of the river and watershed, planning for a more climate-resilient future, and promoting equity in all we do.

The UFSWQD manages the flood safety system in northern Multnomah County. The system prevents 8,000 residents, 60,000 businesses, 2,000 acres of natural habitat, and critical services such as Portland International Airport and the region’s secondary supply of drinking water from being flooded by the Columbia River or stormwater.