The USGS Oregon Water Science Center (ORWSC) and Portland State University (PSU) have partnered to advance water science research, education, and outreach in the Pacific Northwest. The USGS-PSU Partnership (UPP) catalyzes joint research between the two organizations, promotes student engagement and learning opportunities, and enables the sharing of data, resources and facilities. This unique partnership aims to be a model for future public-university partnerships in the United States.