Confluence Project sites

The Confluence Project involves unprecedented interpretive artwork by artist Maya Lin. Confluence Project works, which may include both building and landscape designs as well as integrated artwork, are currently being installed at key confluences of the Columbia River and its tributaries. The Confluence Project is exploring possibilities for a better future. Through place and art, the project’s goal is to reflect the tremendous changes of the last 200 years on the Northwest’s native people and environment.

Construction updates

Sacajawea State Park

The site design for Maya Lin’s story circles is nearly complete. The text to be etched into the story circles has been finalized, and Maya Lin is currently in the process of selecting a material that is culturally appropriate and that can stand up to the seasonal temperature fluctuations at the park. Construction is slated to begin in spring 2009, with a dedication planned for spring 2010.

Chief Timothy Park

Maya Lin is working with Portland landscape architects GreenWorks PC and Nez Perce landscape architect Brian McCormack to complete designs for the site, which include constructing a large, stone-rimmed Listening Circle within a natural amphitheater, creating a trail leading to the amphitheater, removing a parking lot and restoring a grassland meadow. Once the design is finalized, the review process will begin with the landowner, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and then Confluence Project will seek the necessary permits for construction. Construction is planned for late 2009 with a dedication slated for spring 2010.

Completed sites

The Vancouver Land Bridge was dedicated on Saturday morning, August 23, 2008, during a festive public event.

Maya Lin's bird blind at Sandy River Delta (Troutdale, Oregon) was dedicated on Saturday afternoon, August 23, 2008. The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) has completed transportation improvements in the area. The USDA Forest Service, partnering with the Oregon National Guard, constructed a multi-function parking lot at the park. The bird blind (Confluence Trail) trailhead is located at the east end of the parking lot, below the comfort station.

The Confluence Project artwork at Cape Disappointment State Park was completed in spring 2006. Additional site improvements (new restrooms, parking lot and trails) have been completed.

Dedication poem

On August 23, 2009, Washington State poet laureate Sam Green delivered his original What We Carry On The Trail to attendees at the Vancouver Land Bridge dedication.

Inscribed fish-cleaning table