Governor’s Decision Ignores Health Crisis in Morrow and Umatilla Counties, Says Local Advocate
Governor Tina Kotek’s recent declaration of an economic emergency in Eastern Oregon has sparked outrage from local residents and advocates, who argue that the move prioritizes the interests of agricultural producers over the health and safety of local communities. The emergency order, issued in response to long-standing nitrate contamination in Morrow and Umatilla counties, allows the Port of Morrow to continue violating its wastewater permit—something critics see as an abandonment of the promises Kotek made to address the environmental and health crisis.
Residents of Morrow County had been vocal for years, pleading with the governor to declare a public health emergency to address the devastating effects of nitrate pollution. These pollutants have leached into the groundwater, leading to miscarriages, cancer, and a host of other serious health problems for local families. Yet, in her decision this month, Kotek declared an economic emergency, a step that many see as callous and out of touch with the real struggles on the ground.
Broken Promises: Health and Environment at Risk
Two years ago, Morrow County residents traveled to Salem to meet with Kotek’s staff and express their concerns about the rising levels of nitrates in their water supply. They hoped the governor would intervene to provide the resources necessary to address the crisis. At the time, Kotek promised to take action and end the pollution. But now, with her latest emergency order, it seems she has forgotten her promises. Instead of stepping up to protect public health, Kotek is allowing the pollution to continue, citing concerns over the financial impact on local producers.
This decision has angered local residents who are struggling with the consequences of contaminated water. “Perhaps if she had an inbox full of heart-wrenching stories or had sat and grieved with the multitude of mothers who have lost their babies to this pestilence, it might have given her pause,” said Jim Doherty, a local advocate. Instead, Kotek has shown no sign of empathy for the families whose lives are being destroyed by this ongoing environmental disaster.
The reality on the ground is dire. Families in the Lower Umatilla Basin have been living with the consequences of contaminated water for years. Health issues like miscarriages, cancer, and birth defects have been linked to the high nitrate levels in the region’s groundwater. Yet Kotek’s economic emergency order only allows the Port of Morrow to continue their polluting practices, pushing the health of these families to the back burner in favor of economic interests.
Environmental Justice: The Struggle of Marginalized Communities
The most vulnerable communities in this crisis are those in Eastern Oregon that already face significant economic and social challenges. These areas are home to many minority and low-income families, making the issue not just an environmental concern but an environmental justice issue. Governor Kotek campaigned on a platform of environmental justice, pledging to protect marginalized communities from the harmful effects of pollution. However, her recent actions contradict this promise, leaving many to wonder if those pledges were ever genuine.
One example of the desperation surrounding this issue is the violent attack on Oregon Rural Action’s vehicle during a visit by BIPOC legislative members. The firebombing of the vehicle highlights the lengths some are willing to go to silence voices advocating for cleaner, safer environments in Eastern Oregon. This is not just a political issue; it’s a human rights issue. The local community is asking for basic protections—clean water, good health, and a safe environment in which to live. Instead, they are being ignored and left to suffer.
The EPA’s Call for Action
While local advocates have long called for more action, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has also weighed in, recommending a health assessment and epidemiological study to fully understand the impact of nitrate contamination. The state and polluting industries have shown reluctance to carry out these studies, possibly due to the uncomfortable truths they might reveal about the extent of the damage. But the people of Morrow and Umatilla counties are living with the cost of inaction—suffering from health issues and the destruction of their way of life.
Governor Kotek’s decision to focus on economic concerns, rather than public health, has frustrated many in the community who feel their voices have been ignored. With the nitrate pollution still unchecked, the people of Eastern Oregon are left to ask: What is more important—economic profits or the health and lives of those most affected by this crisis?
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