Amanda Gallegos

Amanda joined the Columbia Slough team in 2022 and now serves as Executive Director. She holds a BS in Environmental Studies, and a Project Management Certificate from Portland State University, and has spent much of her career leading community-focused events, including multi-day paddling trips, trash cleanups, community paddles, film screenings, bird walks, and group bike rides.

As a leader, Amanda envisions a future where the Columbia Slough thrives as a vital natural corridor—supporting ecological health, clean water, and equitable access for all who live, work, and recreate within the watershed. Rooted in transparency, inclusivity, and shared purpose, she strives to strengthen the connection between people and place through meaningful engagement of diverse perspectives, empowering staff, volunteers, and community partners to steward a healthier, more resilient future for all communities.

Outside of the Columbia Slough Watershed Council, Amanda is actively engaged with SE Portland based nonprofit, Green Lents. On a random day off, you can likely find her on her bike, reading a book, paddling, or exploring new food in Portland—often with her pups, Nimbus and Beamer, in tow.

Favorite way to explore the Slough: Quiet mornings in a canoe