Earth Ecology: Best Landscapers Serving Portland, OR 97266
Portland, OR 97266
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Earth Ecology address common Portland landscaping issues like dead lawn areas and poor grading?
We tackle these problems through holistic water cycle restoration and regenerative design. For dead lawns, we assess soil health and drainage, often implementing native plantings, drought-tolerant landscapes, or edible alternatives that thrive in our climate. Poor grading is corrected using earthmoving and regrading techniques combined with solutions like one-rock dams, check dams, or swales to manage water flow naturally. Our approach focuses on creating resilient, low-maintenance ecosystems rather than temporary fixes.
What sets your landscape design services apart in Portland?
Our designs integrate artistic installation with ecological science, drawing from Nick Lake's background in sculpture and permaculture. We specialize in custom ecosystem construction—such as creek restoration with beaver dam analogues, pond building, and food forests—that restore water cycles and enhance biodiversity. Each project includes personal stewardship coaching to ensure long-term success, making our services uniquely tailored to Portland's environment and sustainability goals.
Do you offer tree and shrub care alongside your larger construction projects?
Yes, tree care services and shrub planting are integral to our holistic approach. We view plants as key components of ecosystem health, providing care that supports water retention, soil remediation, and habitat creation. Whether it's maintaining existing trees during a landscape installation or planting new native shrubs as part of a larger design, we ensure all vegetation contributes to regenerative outcomes and climate adaptation in Portland.
Business Offerings
- Tree care services
- Landscape maintenance
- Landscape construction or installation
- Design services
- Shrub care
Meet the Team
Earth Ecology is a Portland-based ecological design firm founded by artist-turned-ecologist Nick Lake. With a background in sculpture from UC Berkeley and a Permaculture Design Consultant Certificate earned in 2012, Nick combines artistic vision with ecological expertise to create regenerative landscapes. Certified as a Water Cycle Restoration Professional by Zach Weiss of Water Stories, he leads a team focused on holistic design principles inspired by permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and conservation practices. The company specializes in water cycle restoration, habitat creation, and ecosystem services—transforming properties through pond construction, creek restoration with beaver dam analogues, edible landscaping, and native plantings. Their approach emphasizes personal earth stewardship coaching, artful installation, and sustainable practices that prioritize ecological health and quality of life for Portland residents.
























