Tribute to Bob Sallinger

The Climate Reality Project Portland Chapter, along with all of Oregon’s environmental community, lost an inspiring friend and incredible ally on Thursday, October 31st with the unexpected passing of Bob Sallinger.

Bob, 57, was a leading figure in conservation who advocated tirelessly for wildlife and the natural world. For over three decades he was at the forefront of multiple conservation efforts across the state, from nesting peregrine falcons on Portland’s bridges to water and habitat disputes in the Klamath River basin, and helped shape Metro’s Parks and Nature agenda, preserving thousands of acres of wild spaces. He was also always passionately vocal about the need to protect our local waterways, and was heavily involved in the work to address the dangers of the Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) hub in North Portland.

At the time of his death, Bob was executive director of Willamette Riverkeeper, and also executive director of Bird Conservation Oregon, which he founded. Additionally, he served on the boards of the Elliot State Research Forest, Portland Utility, Intertwine Alliance, and the Urban Flood Safety and Water Quality District, as well as serving as the president of the Board of Humane Voters Oregon.

Earlier this year, CRPDX was lucky to have Bob as the featured speaker at our March membership meeting. He shared the work of Willamette Riverkeeper and other conservation efforts throughout Oregon, clearly demonstrating his passion, depth of knowledge, and love of Oregon’s environment and wildlife. Those among us who knew him personally can attest to his dedication and have shared what a pleasure he was to know and to work with. He is already missed. 

Our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and many colleagues.