We recently crossed the bridge over to Sauvie Island, an island in the Willamette River just 20 minutes from where we live. The northern half of the island is a wildlife refuge with 12,000 acres of state-owned habitat for wintering waterfowl, swans, herons, sandhill cranes, bald eagles and 250 other species. The southern half is primarily agricultural. In addition, parks, viewpoints, beaches and many recreational options are available to the public.
We were interested in locating the farms on the island and learning about the produce available. We stopped at Kruger Farm. Click on images for a larger view.
Yes, they had strawberries, but we decided to come another day for those. We did pick up vine-ripened tomatoes and baby artichokes, among other staples. Those odd-looking greens in the middle are garlic stalks I’ll be experimenting with.
Next we took a quick tour around the island. Not far up the west side of the island we came across an osprey nest with attentive adults. Here you can see one on the nest and the other on the adjoining poll having lunch.
These huge birds are simply glorious to see in person. Their nest looks rather precarious to me though. We couldn’t see any chicks but trust that they are there.
When we were coming down the east side of the island we found two Bald Eagles in a corn field.
What a surprise it was to see them on the ground! We obviously have much to learn about their habits.
A narrow inlet of water separates the island from the main land of Oregon. On it are many well-established, picturesque homes.
Even the bridge crossing the inlet is charming. This view is taken from the last island store before the bridge approach.
It was a beautiful day to be sight seeing. We will return, and soon. The produce selection will become much wider and the fruits, including many varieties of berries, will be ripening during the summer.
Wow, what an adventure to explore the beauty of new surroundings. It looks so beautiful!
It is Jenny! And serene. A feast for the eye, soul and stomach. Of course we go during the week and avoid crowds altogether.
What fun! And so close by! Thanks for the virtual tour!
We feel quite fortunate to have this small oasis so near. We will be visiting often. Strawberries are just the first berry of the season — there are so many more to come and Sauvie Island farmers grow them all! Can’t wait!
Eagle power!
Indeed! It’s a thrill to see them.
This looks like a wonderful place to visit often. Love the birds.
And you can bet we’ll there often, both for the birds and the produce. The side benefit to all that is the calmness we feel while there.
I’m happy that the delights of Portland will not escape you!!
We’ve really just begun too! I hope we see you on the west coast soon. Keep us posted; we’d love to share our corner of the world with you.
You and David are so good about exploring and appreciating your surroundings. And what glorious surroundings you have!
No fun breakfast spots on the island but still quite fun. Plenty of breakfast spots just minutes away. Come visit!
The island will be on my list of spots to visit next time I am in Portland area. Thanks for the virtual tour.