Programs and Collaborations
Water on Campus
When it comes to managing water on PSU’s campus, there are many departments involved. The Environmental Health and Safety Department (EHS) does all the water quality testing of our drinking water fountains and supports Facilities regarding regulatory requirements. Learn more at https://www.pdx.edu/environmental-health-safety/drinking-water-testing. If you’re thinking about doing a project on campus that involves our drinking water, reach out to Jeff Rook (jrook@pdx.edu) or Scott Jacqua (sjaqua@pdx.edu) at EHS. They can help support and provide important historical information.
The Planning and Sustainability Office also has many resources related to water quality and conservation on campus, including the Green Revolving Fund, our Salmon-Safe Certification, and green stormwater management infrastructure. There are many ways to get involved; learn more here.
Portland Bureau of Environmental Services (BES)
PSU has partnered with BES on projects related to planning for climate change, green infrastructure management, ITECK and earthquake resilience. BES has also been a regular host for PSU interns through the Institute for Sustainable Solutions (ISS). PSU interns have supported a variety of BES programs, including the Community Watershed Stewardship Program.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service has been an active partner and supporter of PSU’s Indigenous traditional ecological and cultural knowledge (ITECK) programming since 2013. PSU and USFWS have planned salmon celebrations, provided internships and other support for PSU’s emerging Indigenous student leaders, and collaborated on educational events. In collaboration with dedicated community leaders, USFWS continues to work to spread awareness about the importance of ITECK at the Native Gathering Garden, at national wildlife refuges, in Portland neighborhood parks, on campus, and beyond. Learn more.
USGS-PSU Partnership (UPP)
The UPP aims to be a model partnership that redefines the way universities and federal agencies collaborate, advance scientific research, and develop the next generation of connected scientists, stewards, and advocates for our hydrologic and geologic resources. The partnership catalyzes collaborative research and promotes sharing science between organizations; supports internship, mentorship and research opportunities for PSU students with USGS staff; and helps students prepare for careers at USGS and beyond. Visit the UPP website to learn more, and join the collaboration directory to get involved!