A year ago this month, an investigation by The Oregonian exposed that there are critical gaps in our knowledge of how much water we have and how quickly it is being consumed. What do we know for sure? Oregon has a limited supply of water for our farms, fish and faucets, and our rivers are already overtaxed. As the state gives out more permits for groundwater, these underground reserves are being put at risk in parts of the state.
When water levels drop, fish and farmers are left high and dry – putting our food economy and Indigenous peoples’ cultural resources at risk. Many communities depend on groundwater for drinking water and to sustain local jobs.
But there are steps the state can take now to protect Oregon’s water future and better manage this resource.
This week, Oregon’s water resources commissioners will discuss how to make progress on these issues. We will be there to testify that Oregonians want smarter water management that protects our economy and way of life for future generations.
Speak up today to make sure commissioners hold the department accountable for protecting Oregon’s water future. Add your name to the list of Oregonians calling for action here:
Oregon Environmental Council started our intentional diversity, equity, and inclusion work in 2012. We started this journey by listening and acknowledging that the environmental movement has caused harm and not been as inclusive as it needs to be. In saying this, we want to acknowledge the diverse voices in the movement and not erase their accomplishments. There have always been incredible BIPOC leaders doing environmental and environmental justice work, and we are grateful for
When you think about water in Oregon, you might think about the Rogue River, Pacific Coast or Malheur Lake. However, some of the most important bodies of water in our state aren’t visible to the naked eye: they’re under our feet.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 16, 2023Media Contact:
Patty Wentz, patty@wentzjackson.com
503-970-7929
As Oregon experiences record breaking heat driven by climate change, it is important to note the one-year anniversary of the historic Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which will invest at least $370 billion–and potentially upwards of $1 trillion–nationwide to a
The passage of the bipartisan Drought Package during Oregon’s 2023 Legislative Session marks a pivotal moment in the state’s efforts to combat a looming water crisis. By prioritizing safe drinking water, investing in water infrastructure, promoting efficient agricultural practices, and protecting water sources, Oregon is taking bold strides toward a water-secure future.A Critical Time for Action
For World Water Day 2023, we affirm our commitment to water justice and elevate the Oregon Water Justice Framework, recently released by the Oregon Water Futures Project, a collaboration between water and environmental justice interests,
It is (past) time we break up with oil! Not only do the big changes in the price of gas affect our wallets, but burning fossil fuels is bad for the climate and our health. Oregon has the opportunity to be a leader in the transition to electric vehicles and get on the path to meeting our climate pollution reduction goals by adopting the Advanced Clean Car II
By: Nora Apter, the Climate Program Director for Oregon Environmental Council.Greer Ryan, Oregon Clean Buildings Policy Manager with Climate Solutions.
Right now, there is an important conversation happening in Oregon, and around the country, about buildings. The buildings in which we live and work are a critical piece of the climate puzzle. They are both vital to reducing climate change causing fossil fuels and our first line of defense against climate harms like extreme heat, wildfire smoke, and air
J Lawyer
August 15, 2017 (6:46 pm)
when the water is gone we will have a very grim future
Ray West
August 15, 2017 (11:25 pm)
If it isn’t already a human right, clean water should be.
Betty Abadia
August 16, 2017 (12:46 am)
Water is life!
dorinda kelley
August 16, 2017 (12:46 am)
We are known for our clean and wonderful tasting water. Don’t harm this precious commodity.
susan delles
August 16, 2017 (3:51 am)
Water is and forests are our greatest assets. They must be protected.