By Antonio Sierra and Monica Samayoa | OPB | Jan. 13, 2025

Oregon will allow the Port of Morrow to dump nitrate-rich wastewater on agricultural fields in the Lower Umatilla Basin through the end of February — despite a drinking water crisis linked to nitrates in the region’s groundwater.

In a statement announcing her executive order declaring a state of emergency, Gov. Tina Kotek said jobs would be at stake in the basin if the state didn’t take action.

According to a press release, a wet winter combined with anticipated rain and freezing conditions means the port is set to exceed its current storage capacity in February. If that happens, it won’t be able to accept wastewater from food processors and other businesses in the area.