The Columbia River Photos “From Source to Sea” Debut

Portland, OR. The Oregon Historical Society has a new exhibit featuring the work of Hood River Photographer Peter Marbach. He straddled the source of the river near Canal Flats, BC. It’s an underground spring, most likely fed by the Kootenay River. Peter Marbach is documenting the landscapes and culture of the entire 1,250 miles of the Columbia River, from its beginnings, to the two-mile-wide confluence with the Pacific. The exhibit, which runs from January 19th – April 1st, is called The Columbia River: From Source to Sea. Here’s a glimpse of a few of the images.

by photographer Peter Marbach of wildflowers during last light on Dog Mountain.

Photographer Peter Marbach captures wildflowers during last light on Dog Mountain.

The Purcell Mountains are reflected in calm water near Spillimacheen, BC.

Akisqnuk First Nation elder Pete Sanchez is featured in this photo along the shores of the Columbia near Windermere, BC.

While this exhibit showcases the beauty, culture, and geographic diversity of Nch I Wana – The Big River, it is the hope of photographer Peter Marbach that this display will launch greater public awareness and encourage those at the negotiating table to consider the moral obligation of honoring aboriginal knowledge of river restoration and to harness the will and existing technology to bring back the ancient runs of salmon that will once again make the Columbia a life giving source to all.

Peter Marbach will be on hand to talk about his photos on Wednesday, February 15th from 7 AM – 8:30. He will discuss the importance of the current Columbia River Treaty re-negotiations and its implications that may lead to the eventual return of Pacific Salmon all the way to the headwaters.

The event will take place at the Oregon Historical Society, 1200 SW Park Ave, in Portland.

Elisa Klein

I’ve been a professional journalist and writer since 1987, (and long-time reporter for KOIN-TV.) As a nationally published reporter, with a Master’s Degree in Journalism, I love to report positive news and information. Journalism has also connected me with another non-profit where I served as a leader; the Northwest’s biggest writer’s organization: The Willamette Writers.