AGP Executive Report

Wildfire Resilience: A new cohort of Indigenous firefighters and ecological restoration workers graduated from the Lomakatsi Restoration Project in Ashland, trained for 18 weeks to reduce fuels and protect Oregon forests using both ancient and modern approaches. Drought Watch: Gov. Tina Kotek approved drought declarations for five more Oregon counties, bringing 17 counties statewide into drought status as conditions worsen east of the Cascades. Water & Public Health: Oregon Health Authority lifted a health advisory for Nye Beach in Newport after follow-up testing showed fecal bacteria levels returned to normal. Contaminated Sites Cleanup: Ashland’s long-running cleanup of contaminated railroad property near Railroad Park is moving forward under a state-approved plan to cap and confine soil on-site, paving the way for future development. Ocean Monitoring Under Threat: The Trump administration is dismantling the Ocean Observatories Initiative, including deep-sea instruments off the Oregon coast, raising concerns that some data losses can’t be undone. Wildlife Management Fight: A federal plan to kill nearly half a million barred owls across the West is headed toward a judge’s decision, with claims the removals may already be underway. Heat Risk: As record-breaking summer heat arrives early, lifeguards and local officials urged water safety and hydration for crowds heading to rivers and beaches. Local Energy Policy: Portland completed a pilot on extending commercial energy reporting to multifamily buildings, finding limited first-year workload and setting up future statewide benchmarking. Waste & Illegal Dumping: A Portland-area resident says hundreds of tires were illegally dumped on his property, highlighting ongoing challenges with enforcement and cleanup.

Drought Watch: Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek approved new drought declarations for Douglas, Gilliam, Harney, Lake and Malheur counties, bringing 17 counties statewide into drought status as conditions worsen and severe drought more than doubled since early June. Ocean & Climate Science: The Trump administration has begun dismantling the Ocean Observatories Initiative, including the Coastal Endurance Array off Oregon and Washington, a move OSU and other researchers say will hurt ocean monitoring for decades. Wildlife Conflict: A federal plan to kill about 450,000 barred owls across the West is headed toward a Portland judge’s decision, with claims the removals may already be underway while litigation drags on. Contamination Cleanup: Cleanup is underway on a long-contaminated Union Pacific railroad property in Ashland, using a state-approved plan to cap and confine soil so future development can proceed. Local Water Quality: Oregon Health Authority lifted a Nye Beach (Newport) advisory after follow-up tests showed fecal bacteria levels returned to normal, though officials still warn about bird-frequented pools and runoff. Energy Reporting: Portland finished a year-long pilot on extending commercial energy reporting to multifamily buildings, finding property managers would spend about 3–9 hours per building in the first year. Floodplain Planning: Portland’s Housing Bureau completed a floodplain evaluation for a proposed affordable housing project at 751 NW Hoyt St, with mitigation considered but limited since the site sits inside the floodplain. Waste & Recycling: Benton County’s Great Move-Out event offers free mattress and box spring recycling, aiming to cut illegal dumping and landfill waste. Heat Safety: As extreme heat and storms loom, local lifeguards and community groups are pushing water safety and heat preparedness, including guidance for pets and DIY help for smoke and heat readiness.

Heat & Water Safety: Lifeguards are urging caution as heat drives crowds to the Sandy River, warning that fast-moving water and cold temperatures catch swimmers off guard and that life jackets are the biggest protection. El Niño Outlook: A weak El Niño has formed, but forecasts say it could become “very strong” by winter—raising odds of warmer Northwest temperatures and low snowpacks. Coast Health: A fecal bacteria advisory at Nye Beach in Newport was lifted after follow-up testing showed levels returned to normal, though officials still warn beachgoers to avoid bird-frequented standing water. Wildfire Policy Fight: Senate Republicans advanced a wildfire bill that would also repeal the roadless rule, a move Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden says could undermine protections for federal forests. Energy Reporting in Portland: Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability finished a pilot on energy reporting for multifamily buildings, estimating a few hours of work per building in the first year and less afterward. Floodplain Housing: Portland Housing Bureau issued a floodplain notice for a Broadway Corridor affordable housing project in a 500-year floodplain, outlining mitigation limits and why relocation wasn’t feasible. Outdoor Activism in Oregon: Patagonia is suing Bend drag performer Pattie Gonia over trademark claims, sparking debate over activism, parody, and brand protection. Drought & Water Stress: Prineville residents continue pushing for answers on groundwater contamination near an aggregate mine, with DEQ seeking public comment. Pets & Public Guidance: Oregon health officials backed off a rule requiring adults to accompany kids under 14 at public pools, shifting to recommended supervision signs while they gather more input. Native Plants: Bend’s High Desert Horticultural Center announced a native plant garden tour highlighting water-wise, fire-wise landscaping.

Groundwater Watch: Prineville residents and Oregon Health Authority are pushing for answers after contamination near a Knife River aggregate mine has affected at least 61 nearby wells; OHA is seeking public comment on health risks through Aug. 17. Wildlife & Fisheries: Scientists say a parasite (ceratonova shasta) is killing young Chinook salmon in the Upper Klamath River, raising alarms for Oregon’s spawning grounds. Waterway & Rail Accountability: A federal complaint alleges Portland & Western Railroad is shirking duties after a Corvallis bridge collapse dumped urea into the Marys River, with DEQ fining the railroad $81,600. Climate & Fire Readiness: State and federal officials warn drought, low snowpack, and climate change could drive higher wildfire risk across Oregon, with preparations ramping up. Ballot Fight Over Hunting/Fishing: Petitioners behind Oregon Initiative Petition 28 have submitted 126,000+ signatures to ban hunting and fishing exemptions tied to animal cruelty laws, moving toward a November ballot. Recycling & Waste: Corvallis offers free mattress recycling at the Benton County Fairgrounds this weekend, aiming to cut landfill waste and illegal dumping. Data Centers & Energy Storage: Oregon battery maker ZincFive plans to go public via a SPAC deal valued at $600 million, betting on growth in data-center power needs. Rare Plants: A conservation group petitions for federal protection of two rare goldenweed species under the Endangered Species Act. Outdoor Heat Outlook: El Niño is forming and could become “very strong,” tilting odds toward warmer winters and low snowpack in the Northwest.

Drought Watch: Oregon’s drought is worsening again, with the U.S. Drought Monitor showing more of the state sliding into extreme conditions and record-low streamflows expected to hit all-time lows later this summer. Heat Risk: Oregon Health Authority is urging people to prepare for dangerous hot weather, with guidance aimed at kids, older adults, outdoor workers, and people with chronic conditions. Water Quality Concern: OHA is seeking public comment on a draft health report tied to high manganese and other contaminants in domestic wells north of Prineville, including risks for infants and recommendations for treatment and retesting. Wildfire Readiness: The Oregon Department of Forestry set a June 15 start for fire season in the West Oregon Protection District, with Starker Forests closing to motorized vehicles while keeping walk-in access. Conservation Win: A California condor released by the Yurok Tribe has been spotted in Oregon for the first time since 1904, highlighting the species’ expanding recovery. Roadless Rule Fight: Sen. Ron Wyden warned that repealing the Roadless Area Conservation Rule could increase wildfire risk and open Oregon national forests to more development. Data Center Water Scrutiny: Amazon disclosed that its data centers used 2.5 billion gallons of water in 2025, adding fuel to Oregon’s ongoing debate over data-center impacts.

Heat & Air Quality: Oregon Health Authority is urging people to prepare now for extreme heat and issuing tougher guidance for youth sports and outdoor activities during wildfire smoke, warning that smoke can harm kids at lower exposure levels than previously thought. Wildlife & Fisheries: Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife tightens Upper Klamath Lake trout rules to protect declining native redband trout, requiring release and banning bait during the summer season. Forests & Recreation: Sen. Ron Wyden warns that repealing the federal Roadless Rule could open Oregon’s roadless national forest areas to development and raise wildfire risks. Data Centers & Water: Amazon says its data centers used 2.5 billion gallons of water worldwide in 2025, while Oregon’s heat-and-smoke season and broader power/water debates keep pressure on transparency. Conservation Courts: A federal court vacated an IRS “beginning of construction” notice that had removed a safe harbor for wind and solar developers, a win for clean-energy timelines. Outdoor Access: Central Cascades Wilderness Permit System starts its summer permit requirements for popular trails. Local Safety: Portland reports 69,000 speed-camera citations in just over half a year, as the city plans more enforcement.

Wildfire Forecast: Eastern Washington is bracing for an “unusually active” fire season, with low snowpack drying fuels early and officials prepositioning air and ground crews. Drought Emergency: Gov. Tina Kotek declared drought emergencies in Douglas, Gilliam, Harney, Lake, and Malheur, pushing nearly half of Oregon’s counties into emergency status and signaling long dry conditions ahead. Heat Risk: A weekend heat wave is expected to push parts of Southern Oregon and Northern California into the triple digits, raising heat illness concerns and boosting wildfire danger. Forest Policy Fight: A Senate committee advanced a backdoor push to repeal the Roadless Rule, a move critics say would weaken protections for wildlife and public lands. Logging Pressure in the Blue Mountains: Proposed revisions to management plans for the Wallowa-Whitman, Umatilla, and Malheur national forests could dramatically increase commercial logging, with a draft environmental review expected soon. Wildlife Care Reminder: ODFW highlighted that leaving deer fawns alone gives them the best survival odds—and that removing young wildlife can violate Oregon law. Landfill Impacts on Animals: An equine therapy nonprofit near Coffin Butte Landfill says trash and air quality issues have forced it to limit services and keep therapy horses off-site. Grid & Renewables Reporting: Oregon Public Broadcasting’s reporting points to gaps in how lawmakers connect wind and solar projects to the Bonneville Power Administration’s transmission role. Data Center Siting: Hillsboro is weighing new land-use rules and possible limits on data centers after public concern about environmental review and impacts.

Drought Emergency: Gov. Tina Kotek declared drought emergencies in Douglas, Gilliam, Harney, Lake and Malheur counties, bringing Oregon to 17 of 36 counties under drought orders and triggering faster state water help as dry conditions threaten farms, wildlife habitat and wildfire risk. Native Species & Restoration: The Oregon Zoo welcomed 25 Pacific lamprey to its Great Northwest area as part of a tribal-led restoration moving fish above dams; the species has declined from habitat loss, barriers and climate impacts. Conservation Lawsuit: The Center for Biological Diversity sued the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service over delays in deciding whether Western ridged mussels need Endangered Species Act protections, warning populations are sliding toward extinction. Water & Habitat Impacts: A federal court allowed an eastern Oregon water pollution class action to move forward, keeping pressure on polluters and regulators. Community Access to Nature: Portland’s new free Forest Park shuttle aims to connect more residents to city parks without a car, funded by an ODOT grant. Local Land-Use Fight: A Phoenix planning commission approved a controversial truck fueling operation and convenience store despite nearby residents’ environmental, wildfire evacuation and traffic concerns.

Wind/Solar Tax Credits: A federal court vacated IRS Notice 2025-42, restoring the “5% Safe Harbor” for “beginning of construction” on many wind and solar projects—though an appeal could bring uncertainty right up to the July 4 deadline. Eastern Oregon Water Pollution: A judge let a class action move forward over nitrate-contaminated drinking water tied to Port of Morrow operations and large food processors, setting up a major trial in 2027. Local Air-Quality Oversight: Eugene approved a land-use code change for industrial zones that requires applicants to attest to pollution-control permits, aiming to prevent surprise public health impacts. Wildlife & Public Safety: ODFW warned Eugene residents after a black bear was spotted in the South Hills; officials urged bear-safe trash and no feeding. Invasive/Outbreak Watch: Mormon cricket swarms were confirmed in Lake County, with a June 10 meeting planned for treatment strategies. Oregon Outdoor Economy Under Threat: A ballot initiative (IP 28) is advancing that would criminalize many regulated hunting, fishing, ranching, and animal husbandry activities, raising alarms from rural communities and wildlife groups. Climate Extremes: Astoria and much of Oregon face an early-June heat wave, while another report highlights some of the coldest Junes on record in Oregon since 1895. Oregon Grass Seed for the World Cup: Willamette Valley grass seed farmers are supplying turf for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reinforcing Oregon’s global role in seed production.

Renewables Tax Fight: A D.C. judge vacated the IRS “5% safe harbor” rule that would have made it harder for many wind and solar projects to qualify for federal credits before the July 4 deadline, a win for clean energy groups including the Oregon Environmental Council, though an appeal could still change the outcome. Grid Reliability: Oregon’s Public Utility Commission is weighing how to keep the Western power grid reliable as load grows faster than transmission, with calls to streamline environmental and right-of-way reviews for major new high-voltage lines. Wildfire Health: The Oregon Health Authority updated guidance for youth during wildfire smoke, urging stricter limits even at “Moderate” air quality and recommending canceling or relocating outdoor activities as conditions worsen. Marine Monitoring Under Threat: The NSF is dismantling much of the Ocean Observatories Initiative, including sensors off the Oregon coast, raising concerns about losing long-term ocean data. Wildlife Habitat Debate: A commentary challenges whether Oregon’s wildlife areas are being managed more for livestock grazing than for wildlife, questioning the science behind “forage conditioning.” Local Climate Policy: Bend City Council advanced a Climate Pollution Fee aimed at cutting emissions from new gas appliances while funding energy-efficiency support. EWEB E-bike Pause: Eugene’s utility paused its electric bicycle rebates after demand spiked and threatened to consume most of its transportation electrification budget. Oregon Conservation K-9: Oregon State Police launched a youth naming contest for a new Fish and Wildlife Conservation K-9.

Renewables in Court: A federal judge vacated an IRS rule that tightened eligibility for wind and solar tax credits, sending the guidance back after finding the agency acted “arbitrary and capricious,” a win backed by groups including the Oregon Environmental Council. Wildfire Smoke Health: Oregon Health Authority updated its Air Quality Guide for Children and Youth, emphasizing that kids are more vulnerable to smoke and should limit outdoor activity based on AQI/PM2.5. Local Land-Use Oversight: Portland’s Planning Commission will hold a June 23 hearing on zoning code updates to match new state middle-housing and land-use review laws. Umatilla Basin Pollution Case: A judge let most claims proceed in a lawsuit alleging farms and processors conspired to dispose of high-nitrate wastewater in ways that harmed groundwater. Wildlife/Water Safety: Southern Humboldt residents reported a white plume in Redwood Creek traced to drilling-related waste dumping tied to a major broadband project. Energy & Emergency Response: Oregon National Guard and partners trained with Clackamas Fire for water-rescue scenarios, while OHA’s guidance and local grants underscore preparedness.

Clean Energy Court Win: A federal judge vacated a Trump-era IRS rule that made it harder for wind and solar projects to qualify for federal tax credits, sending the policy back for reconsideration—another setback for efforts to slow clean power. Wildlife Management Fight: In Washington, the Yakama Nation has begun killing barred owls under a federal plan aimed at protecting spotted owls, drawing criticism from animal-rights advocates. Oregon Conservation & Habitat: Oregon’s wildlife areas still rely on cattle grazing on more than half of lands, despite thin science behind “forage conditioning” claims—raising questions for habitat managed with Pittman-Robertson funds. Wildfire Readiness: The Oregon Hazards Lab expanded early wildfire detection with AI-integrated cameras that flag smoke for human review before alerts go to responders. Marine Recovery: After a massive sea star die-off, biologists report a surprising “baby boom” of juveniles along the Oregon Coast, hinting at ecosystem rebound. Water & Climate Monitoring: The National Science Foundation is dismantling parts of the Ocean Observatories Initiative, removing long-running ocean climate monitoring tools. Local Land Protection: An Oregon nursery owner is using a conservation easement to keep farmland protected even if land-use rules change.

Ocean Monitoring Cuts: The Trump administration is dismantling the Ocean Observatories Initiative, removing more than 900 ocean instruments, including sites off Oregon, as scientists warn the timing is especially bad with a strong El Niño expected. Wildlife & Climate News: After a massive sea star die-off, a biologist reports a surprising “baby boom” of juveniles on Oregon’s coast, though warming and disease risks remain. Ballot Fight Over Hunting/Fishing: Oregon’s PEACE Act petition (Initiative Petition 28) has surged toward the November ballot, aiming to ban hunting, fishing, trapping, and conventional livestock farming, with supporters citing animal welfare and opponents warning it would upend Oregon’s wildlife management. Local Fire Mitigation: Shasta College in California is using a herd of about 600 goats to reduce wildfire fuel on campus—an approach officials say cuts greenhouse gases versus heavy machinery. Restoration on the McKenzie: A new, unprecedented restoration approach is taking shape on Oregon’s McKenzie River.

Ocean Monitoring Fight: The Trump administration is dismantling the Ocean Observatories Initiative, removing more than 900 deep-sea instruments that track ocean heat, carbon uptake, currents, and coastal flooding risk—starting with sites off Oregon—just as scientists warn the timing could not be worse for understanding climate impacts and an expected El Niño. Ballot Measure Watch: A new Oregon initiative would criminalize hunting, fishing, and trapping, framing them as animal abuse; supporters say it’s about ethics, while hunters and anglers see it as a direct threat to long-standing outdoor traditions. PFAS Crackdown: Oregon is among states tightening rules on “forever chemicals,” with new disclosure and restriction laws taking effect as PFAS scrutiny grows nationwide. Local Budget Pressure: Springfield approved a new 0.1% payroll tax on employers and workers starting as early as January 2027 to close a budget gap, though it won’t restore library services cut earlier. Wildlife & Habitat: The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde began major construction at tumwata village, a mixed-use redevelopment at Willamette Falls aimed at restoring shoreline access and cultural connection. Road Safety: Speed cameras in Sherwood caught more than 1,000 speeding drivers in two weeks, highlighting ongoing public safety concerns on Southwest Oregon Street. In Memoriam: Former Oregon U.S. Sen. Bob Packwood died at 93, remembered for environmental and social stances but overshadowed by a major sexual misconduct scandal that ended his Senate career.

Ballot Fight in Oregon: A proposed initiative would criminalize hunting, fishing, and trapping in Oregon, with signature drive and campaign energy split between urban anti-hunting groups and rural anglers and hunters. Columbia River Fishing: Washington added spring Chinook retention days on the Columbia River, with updated return estimates and specific daily limits and release rules. Ocean Monitoring Under Threat: The Trump administration is dismantling the $368 million Ocean Observatories Initiative, including instruments off Oregon and the Atlantic, raising alarms about losing key climate and ocean data. PFAS Crackdown: A state-by-state push to regulate “forever chemicals” is accelerating, with Oregon among states moving toward new disclosure and restriction rules. Data Centers vs. Climate Goals: Reports say Northwest utilities are turning to gas to power data centers, risking missed emissions-reduction targets. Local Conservation & Wildlife: Oregon State Police is launching a conservation K-9 naming contest for a new dog to help investigate poaching and assist searches. Portland Public Safety: A debate over police staffing and 911 response failures highlights how budget gaps are reshaping city services. Wildfire Preparedness: A roundup of fire-resistant landscaping plants points to practical ways to reduce home ignition risk. Wildlife Health: Gray whales are struggling in a warming Arctic, with malnourishment linked to broader climate pressures.

Ocean Monitoring Under Fire: The Trump administration is moving to dismantle the Ocean Observatories Initiative, with plans to remove more than 900 deep-sea instruments—an effort that would cut off long-running data on ocean conditions off Oregon and the broader Pacific and Atlantic. Energy & Climate Accountability: New reports say Northwest utilities in Oregon and Washington are increasingly turning to gas to power booming data center demand, risking missed emission-reduction targets and more pressure on climate rules. Local Conservation & Community: The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde has started major construction at tumwata village, a mixed-use redevelopment at Willamette Falls aimed at restoring shoreline access and supporting housing, commerce, and cultural tourism. Wildlife & Public Interest: Oregon State Police is launching a new Fish and Wildlife Conservation K-9 team and asking kids ages 9–17 to help name the puppy. Parks Funding Push: An Environment Oregon advocate visited Wallowa County to urge new, ongoing funding for Oregon state parks amid large deferred maintenance needs. Portland Public Safety Debate: A Portland editorial argues the city’s 911 response crisis is driven by chronic staffing shortages and warns against further Police Bureau cuts.