Will the Pacific Northwest be Transformed into a Petrochemical Export Hub?

The Pacific Northwest is noted for its magnificent mountains, rivers, coastline and verdant farmland. The region also holds itself up as a model of environmental stewardship and sustainability. Yet at the same time, forces inside and outside of the Northwest are pushing for the region to become an export hub for fossil fuels. On this episode of Locus Focus we talk with Dan Serres, conservation director for Columbia Riverkeeper, about proposals to build oil, coal and LNG terminals across the Northwest, and the opposition these proposals face from broad segments of the community.

Dan Serres works to engage diverse communities along the Columbia. Dan was the lead organizer in Columbia Riverkeeper's successful campaign to protect forests and farmland from Bradwood Landing Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) pipelines. He is an expert on the impact of energy projects on water quality and communities, including LNG, coal export terminals, and power plants.

On Tuesday, May 26 at 12:00 pm at the Capitol steps in Salem, Oregon, hundreds of Oregonians, including farmers, ranchers, business owners and conservationists, will gather for a rally to oppose liquified natural gas (LNG) exports throughout Oregon. The rally will include speeches from tribal leaders,  impacted landowners and a keynote speech from Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Waterkeeper Alliance President. For more information: http://www.nolngexports.org/

Pembina's proposed liquid propane terminal on the Columbia River in North Portland has been rejected by Mayor Charlie Hales, originally a stanch proponent of the project, due to immense public opposition. Hales' turn about effectively kills the proposal. However, city councillor Nick Fish is now proposing that the terminal's fate should be voted on by the entire city council to cover. Opponents do not believe that this vote is necessary nor a good idea and that the terminal proposal should be left to die. You can call Nick Fish and let him know what you think: 503-823-3589.