With the era of climate change already bringing more drought, wildfire, and stress to Oregon’s forests, we ask that the Department and Board build on the success of the Accord. Please ask State leadership to continue updating protections for forested watersheds as we learn more about what is needed to ensure clean, cold water for fish and wildlife. Also, ask them to protect water for communities, an issue that was not addressed in the Accord.
Read MoreOn the 48th anniversary of the Clean Water Act, we’re reflecting back on the impact of this fundamental environmental and public health law. On October 18th, 1972, Congress enacted the Clean Water Act. Since then, we’ve come a long way from rivers catching on fire, raw sewage discharged directly into rivers, and the unbridled destruction of wetlands and streams. In a changing climate, with less consistent rainfall, less stable snowpack, and increased drought, the presence of cold, clean water becomes even more critical for communities in our region. Now more than ever, it’s critical to consider the future of these fundamental protections.
Read MoreOn June 26th, the Oregon legislature passed bipartisan legislation that adopts common sense reforms for current practices on private industrial timber lands in Oregon. This vote is the result of decades of hard work by community members, organizers, and scientists calling for change. It is also just the first step in what will be a long process over the next two years to secure lasting protections for healthy forests and clean drinking water for all Oregonians.
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