Discussion: The Whilamut Natural Area is a special part of Alton Baker Park, the core park that joins Eugene and Springfield along the north bank of the Willamette River. The Whilamut Natural Area was established to preserve habitat and create a natural area in this core park dedicated to habitat conservation and passive recreation rather than conventional park development. The park is spectacular in many ways but many of the native wildflowers are threatened by pervasive invasive plant colonization.

Most of the intact riparian forests of the Willamette Valley have been lost to urban and agricultural development. Some of the best remaining riparian forest habitat stretches from the newly protected lands on the north side of Mount Pisgah downstream to the confluence of the Willamette and Mckenzie rivers on the northern edge of Eugene. Restoration efforts throughout this area seek to build a healthy, connected stretch of habitat that follows the river through Eugene and Springfield. Eastgate Woodlands has spectacular wildflowers including many species of native lilies, bleeding hearts, delphinium, and many others. It has excellent habitat but is heavily infested with English ivy, exotic blackberries, holly, hawthorne, and many other invasive plants. The ivy has ascended nearly every tree in the area. Restoration work focuses initially on removing the ivy from the trees and then from the best habitat for wildflowers, working in the best flower areas during the dormant season. The goal is to have a close-in, well-used park that provides one of the best and most beautiful examples of riparian forests and native wildflowers in an urban area in Oregon.

Directions: Meet at Entrance to Eastgate Woodlands in Springfield at west end of boat landing parking lot.

• By Bike: from N Bank Willamette River Bike Path, either east from Eugene or west from Springfield, follow bike path along river to boat landing at the entrance to Eastgate Woodlands at the south end of Aspen Street.
• By Car from Eugene: Via MLK: Take MLK Jr Blvd into Springfield and turn right on Aspen Street. Follow Aspen St until it ends at boat landing. From Eugene via Franklin Blvd: Follow Franklin Blvd east over bridge into Springfield. Take first left on Mill St. Follow Mill St and take a left On West D St. Follow West D St to intersection with Aspen St. Turn left and follow Aspen to boat landing.
• By Car from Springfield: From Mill St, take West D street west to intersection with Aspen street. Turn left and follow to boat landing. From MLK JR Blvd: turn south on Aspen Street and follow until it ends at boat landing.