OCEANSCAPE NETWORK
  • Home
  • Virtual Explorations
    • The Stream
  • Explore
  • Experience
  • Educate
River Valleys
Valleys
ECOSYSTEMS > INLAND OREGON > VALLEYS

A river valley is formed by the erosive action of water flowing over the land. These valleys are usually V-shaped with steep walls. If a river valley becomes particularly deep, it’s often referred to as a canyon or gorge.

Because river valleys are often inundated by flooding which can restore nutrients to the surrounding land, they are typically very fertile and productive regions. Throughout human history, river valleys were widely settled and farmed by human beings. In fact, some of the world's oldest cultures found their roots in these kinds of valley.  

Related Feature: My Home in the Valley, Valley vs. Canyon

Where Can I See a River Valley in Oregon?

Willamette Valley
GPS Coordinates: 44.7704898, -123.9866723
Rogue River Valley
GPS Coordinates: 42.4401544, -122.9436642
Umpqua River Valley
GPS Coordinates: 43.5331296, -124.0369694

Representative Species for River Valleys in Oregon: 

American beaver
Douglas-fir
Mallard
Black-tailed deer
Evergreen huckleberry
North American river otter
Coho salmon
Gray fox
Oregon ash
Common evening primrose
Great blue heron
Red alder

Suggested Activities for These Areas:

Camping
Kayaking
Cycling
Photography and Video
Fishing
Picnicking
Hiking
Wildlife Spotting
Picture
Picture
About Oceanscape
The Oregon Coast Aquarium's Oceanscape Network is an educational program for youth designed to inspire curiosity in science, nature, conservation and outdoor exploration while providing valuable classroom resources for educators. MORE.
Quick Links
​Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | Goodreads
Site Updates | For Educators | For Youth | Translate This Website | Contact Form | Privacy Policy | Conditions of Use | Website Accessibility
Finding the Aquarium
2820 SE Ferry Slip Road, Newport, Oregon 97365
(541) 867-3474 | oceanscape@aquarium.org
Oceanscape Network © 2023 by the Oregon Coast Aquarium. All rights reserved. 
  • Home
  • Virtual Explorations
    • The Stream
  • Explore
  • Experience
  • Educate