Columbia Riverkeeper

Rumble on the River 28
2026-01-07 17:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Havurah Shalom, 825 NW 18th, Portland, OR, 97209, United States
Join us to hear about the growing concerns around the proliferation of data centers.

Data center growth is exploding across the region, threatening farmland, habitat, clean water, and our climate goals. Enticed by abundant water, energy and tax breaks from cash strapped local communities, Big Tech companies such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google have made the Pacific Northwest their mark. At this Rumble, we’ll hear the latest on the growing concerns about the conflict between the spread of data centers and the protection of farms, forestland, water, and clean energy goals.

What: Rumble on the River #28: What’s the Deal with Data Centers?
Date: January 7, 2026
Time: Doors and Info Tables at 5:30 p.m., Panel at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Havurah Shalom – 825 NW 18th, Portland, Oregon
Cost: Free!

Panelists include:

Sarah Wochele, Equity Analyst & Advocate at Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board
Nellie McAdams, Executive Director at Oregon Agricultural Trust
Kelly Campbell, Policy Director at Columbia Riverkeeper
Kaleb Lay, Director of Research & Policy at Oregon Rural Action
Dr. Ana Carolina de Assis Nunes, Post-Doctoral Fellow at Data & Society Research Institute

GETTING TO RUMBLE #28

Bikes welcome.
Car parking: Park at metered parking spots. On street parking is free after 7 PM.
Public transportation: Havurah Shalom is located along a few bus lines, and north of the MAX.

Bus Lines: 24, 77, 15, 20, & 63. Lines 24 & 77 run near the site. Lines 15, 20 & 63 run just south with an estimated 13 minute walk from the Burnside & 18th bus stop.
Max lines: Red, Blue. A 13 minute walk from Providence Park stops.
Streetcar: NS. A 2 minute walk from the NW 18th & Lovejoy stop. The NS line can be reached with the A & B Loops

ADA accessibility limitations: None

BACKGROUND
Since 2022, Rumble On The River has presented 27 community forums in neighborhoods throughout Portland and at the Public Interest Environmental Law Conference, University of Oregon. Rumbles bring together expert voices to discuss a range of environmental and social topics. These have included the Columbia & Willamette River ecosystems, transportation, false climate solutions, urban forestry, shade equity, risk-bonding, salmon restoration, the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund and the Western Hemisphere’s most toxic site–Hanford. A recurring Rumble focus has been the Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Hub and the potential hazards of having 90 percent of Oregon’s fuel and a dangerous mix of chemicals stored within Portland’s city limits on a riverside seismic liquefaction zone.
RUMBLE CO-SPONSORS

350 PDX
Alliance for Democracy
Arbor Lodge Neighborhood Association
Bird Alliance of Oregon
Braided River Campaign
Breach Collective
Cathedral Park Neighborhood Association
Columbia Riverkeeper
Community for Earth/First Unitarian Portland
Cully Association of Neighbors
EcoFaith Recovery
Economic Justice Action Group/First Unitarian Portland
Extinction Rebellion-PDX
Frog Ferry
Havurah Climate Action Team
Human Access Project
KBOO Radio 90.7
Kenton Neighborhood Association
Linnton Neighborhood Association
Mosquito Fleet
Mt Tabor Neighborhood Association
Neighbors for Clean Air
No More Freeways
OPAL, Environmental Justice Oregon
Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club
Oregon Conservancy Foundation
Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility
Pearl District Neighborhood Association
P.E.S.T. Projection
Portland Committee on Human Rights in the Philippines
Portland Harbor Community Advisory Group
Portland Harbor Community Coalition
Portland Jobs with Justice
Portland Raging Grannies
Portland Youth Climate Strike
Portsmouth Neighborhood Association
St. Johns Neighborhood Association
Sauvie Island Community Association
Sunrise Movement PDX
Tank The Tanks
Third Act Oregon
Willamette Riverkeeper

Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub Webinar
2025-12-04 18:00 - 19:30 | Online
Perilous Fuel Tanks: Oregon’s Ticking Time Bomb
Please join us on December 4 for the online event Perilous Fuel Tanks: Oregon’s Ticking Time Bomb. This event is a panel discussion about the long-reaching environmental effects of a collapse of the Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub (CEI Hub); the statewide consequences for our fuel supply; and past, current, and future state actions. The panelists will answer questions that attendees submit beforehand when they register for the event.

What: Perilous Fuel Tanks: Oregon’s Ticking Time Bomb
Date: December 4, 2025
Time: 6:00 – 7:30 p.m.
Location: Online
Register to Join: Register using this link: bit.ly/4heBKXa (note: this link will take you to a registration page hosted by Consolidated Oregon Indivisible Network (COIN)

Register

Background
The CEI Hub holds 90 percent of Oregon’s liquid fuel supply and is located along the banks of the Willamette River in Northwest Portland, across the street from Forest Park and close to where the Willamette meets the Columbia River. Many of these fuel tanks were built over 70 years ago, before seismic standards were in place, and are located on liquefiable infill soil. This location is considered a quadruple hazard zone because it is vulnerable to earthquakes, wildfires, landslides, floods, and has great potential for a massive oil spill. With the growing risk of urban forest fires and the likelihood of the Cascadia Subduction Zone (“CSZ”) earthquake, these tanks are in a perilous position. Without significant changes, one event could lead to a complete collapse of our state’s fuel system and cause a multi-billion-dollar public health and environmental disaster. A disaster at the CEI Hub will have far-reaching impacts and will affect the entire state.
Panelists will include:
Moderator – Michael Dembrow, retired Oregon State Senator
Michael Dembrow retired from the Oregon legislature in 2025 after representing Southeast Portland, first as a state representative (HD 45, 2009-2013) and then as a state senator (SD 23, 2013-2025). Dembrow was the champion of Senate Bill 1567 (2022), which created the first regulations designed to reduce the seismic risks of the state’s largest bulk fuel terminals. This bill is the first step towards protecting against infrastructure failure during a major seismic event.
Representative Thuy Tran
Thuy Tran has represented Northeast Portland House District 45 since 2023. During the 2025 legislative session, Representative Tran successfully shepherded four CEI Hub-related bills through her House Emergency Management Committee to the joint Ways & Means Committee. None were funded. She plans to bring some of these policies back in 2026. Representative Tran has made protecting the state from a major disaster at the CEI Hub one of her top legislative priorities.
Luke Hanst
Luke works at Portland State University as the Partnerships Manager for the Civil & Environmental Engineering Department. In that capacity, he has researched and reported key findings on risks associated with the CEI Hub, including a 2023 report for Multnomah County on the risks of toxic releases from a CSZ earthquake. Hanst has worked closely as an expert advisor and stakeholder convener with state and local policymakers, businesses, and community advocates.
Kate Murphy
Kate is the Senior Community Organizer at Columbia Riverkeeper. She supports community members along the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington, engaging residents and fighting to protect our region from fuel refineries, pipelines, terminals, and other threats to the Columbia River ecosystem.
Sponsored by: Consolidated Oregon Indivisible Network (COIN); 350PDX; Beyond Toxics; CEI Hub Task Force; Columbia Riverkeeper; Community for Earth, First Unitarian Portland; Linnton Neighborhood Association’s Tank the Tanks; League of Women Voters-OR; MCAT; Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility; Risk Bond Coalition; Sierra Club Oregon Chapter; Southern Oregon Climate Action Network; Willamette Riverkeeper.

Rumble on the River #27
2025-11-20 17:30 | Hoku, 1125 SE Madison St, Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Wild About Our Waterways – Meet Your Local Riverkeepers

Join the Riverkeepers of the Willamette, Tualatin, and Columbia rivers for an evening of stories, strategy, and shared purpose. Hear updates on the work each organization is leading—from local restoration projects and community programs to collaborative policy efforts that defend clean water and healthy habitats across the region. We will discuss current campaigns, issues of concern, and why we are more powerful when we work together. Enjoy complimentary appetizers and beverages as you connect with others who care deeply about the rivers that sustain our communities.

What: Rumble on the River #27: Wild About Our Waterways – Meet Your Local Riverkeepers
Date: November 20, 2025
Time: Doors and Info Tables at 5:30 p.m., Panel at 6:30 p.m.
Location: Hoku, 1125 SE Madison St., Portland, Oregon 97214
Parking: Some paid on-site parking is available as well as free street parking
Cost: Free!

Panelists will include:
Columbia Riverkeeper’s Senior Community Organizer, Kate Murphy and Staff Attorney, Teryn Yazdani; Tualatin Riverkeepers’ Executive Director, Glenn Fee and Advocacy and Policy Director, Kelsey Shaw Nakama; and Willamette Riverkeeper’s Co-Executive Director & Lower Willamette Riverkeeper, Heather King and Co-Executive Director & Upper Willamette Riverkeeper, Michelle Emmons.
BACKGROUND
Since 2022, Rumble On The River has presented 26 community forums in neighborhoods throughout Portland and at the Public Interest Environmental Law Conference, University of Oregon. Rumbles bring together expert voices to discuss a range of environmental and social topics. These have included the Columbia & Willamette River ecosystems, transportation, false climate solutions, urban forestry, shade equity, risk-bonding, salmon restoration, the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund and the Western Hemisphere’s most toxic site–Hanford. A recurring Rumble focus has been the Critical Energy Infrastructure (CEI) Hub and the potential hazards of having 90 percent of Oregon’s fuel and a dangerous mix of chemicals stored within Portland’s city limits on a riverside seismic liquefaction zone.
RUMBLE CO-SPONSORS

350 PDX
Alliance for Democracy
Arbor Lodge Neighborhood Association
Bird Alliance of Oregon
Braided River Campaign
Breach Collective
Cathedral Park Neighborhood Association
Climate Reality Project – Portland Chapter
Columbia Riverkeeper
Community for Earth/First Unitarian Portland
Cully Association of Neighbors
EcoFaith Recovery
Economic Justice Action Group/First Unitarian Portland
Extinction Rebellion-PDX
Frog Ferry
Havurah Climate Action Team
Human Access Project
KBOO Radio 90.7
Kenton Neighborhood Association
Linnton Neighborhood Association
Maplewood Neighborhood Association
Mosquito Fleet
Mt Tabor Neighborhood Association
Neighbors for Clean Air
No More Freeways
OPAL, Environmental Justice Oregon
Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club
Oregon Conservancy Foundation
Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility
Pearl District Neighborhood Association
P.E.S.T. Projection
Portland Committee on Human Rights in the Philippines
Portland Harbor Community Advisory Group
Portland Harbor Community Coalition
Portland Jobs with Justice
Portland Raging Grannies
Portland Youth Climate Strike
Portsmouth Neighborhood Association
St. Johns Neighborhood Association
Sauvie Island Community Association
Sunrise Movement PDX
Tank The Tanks
Third Act Oregon
Tualatin Riverkeepers
Willamette Riverkeeper

Webinar: Unpacking the Impacts of Data Centers 11/13
2025-11-13 12:00 - 13:00 | OR
Gain insights into the impacts of data centers and how policy makers can tackle their growing energy and water appetite

What: A 60-minute webinar on the latest research and policy efforts to address the impacts of data centers in the Pacific Northwest.
When: Thursday, November 13, 2025, from 12 – 1 p.m. PST.
How: RSVP. We’ll send you a Zoom link and reminders. *Note: Even if you can’t attend live, sign up and we’ll send a video recording after the event.
Who: Kate Valdez (Environmental Coordinator, Yakama Nation Fisheries), Sarah Wochele (Equity Analyst & Advocate, Oregon CUB), and Kelly Campbell (Policy Director, Columbia Riverkeeper)

Cost: FREE!

Webinar: This Is Native Land
2025-11-05 14:00 - 15:00 | OR
From Hanford to Pushpum, explore how Yakama Nation and partners are protecting Indigenous history and cultural heritage across the Columbia Plateau
What: A 60-minute webinar on the Yakama Nation and SaveHistory.org collaboration on the latest edition of the children’s activity book: Save Indigenous History – Yakama Nation Collaboration.
When: Wednesday, November 5, 2025, from 2 – 3 p.m. PST.
How: RSVP today. We’ll send you a Zoom link and reminders. *Note: Even if you can’t attend live, sign up and we’ll send a video recording after the event.
Cost: FREE!

“Science Beneath the Surface: The Science and Stakes of Columbia River Pollution”
2025-10-22 12:00 - 13:00 | Virtual
Webinar 10/22
Who are the people studying toxic pollution on the Columbia and why does their research matter? “Science Beneath the Surface: The Science and Stakes of Columbia River Pollution,” is your chance to learn about cutting edge research and ask questions to scientists who have devoted their careers to clean water and the people who rely on it. This free webinar features Dr. Manuel Garcia-Jaramillo and Dr. Diana Rohlman from Oregon State University, as well as Columbia Riverkeeper’s Science & Education Director, Lorri Epstein. Learn about the impacts of toxic pollution, new research in the Columbia River Basin, and what we can do to reduce toxics in the river.

What: A 60-minute webinar on cutting-edge research on Columbia River pollution and why it matters.
When: Wednesday, October, 22, 2025, from 12 – 1 p.m. PST.
How: RSVP today. We’ll send you a Zoom link and reminders. *Note: Even if you can’t attend live, sign up and we’ll send a video recording after the event.
Cost: FREE!

The Columbia River carries a heavy burden. From industrial discharges to agricultural runoff and legacy waste sites, the river faces mounting toxic threats that affect fish, wildlife, and the health of river communities. This engaging webinar will highlight new research uncovering the scope and impacts of toxic pollution in the Columbia River and introduce you to some of the scientists doing this important work. Together, we’ll explore why this research matters and how we can take action to protect the Columbia River and the people who depend on it.

Webinar Speakers:
Lorri Epstein is the science & education director at Columbia Riverkeeper. She coordinates Columbia Riverkeeper’s Water Quality Monitoring program, Nichols Natural Area, and outreach and education engagement programs. Lorri is a biologist whose graduate research focused on juvenile salmon on a remote river on Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula. Prior to joining Columbia Riverkeeper, Lorri worked on river restoration issues on the Klamath, Yakima, and Umpqua Rivers. She also taught outdoor education in the California Redwoods.
Dr. Manuel Garcia-Jaramillo is an environmental health scientist specializing in environmental chemistry and toxicology. He is currently an assistant professor of water quality toxicology at Oregon State University, where he is driven by a commitment to safeguarding public health through innovative research on water quality. His work integrates advanced analytical chemistry and molecular biology to address the urgent global challenge of water contamination and its far-reaching health implications.
Dr. Diana Rohlman is an associate professor (Sr. Research) at Oregon State University. Her research program studies how people understand environmental influences on health as a way of helping communities better frame and respond to environmental health hazards. Dr. Rohlman is the director of the Community Engagement Core at the Oregon State University Environmental Health Sciences Center. She also serves as co-lead of the Community Engagement Core at the OSU Superfund Research Program Center.

This webinar was developed under Assistance Agreement No. 02J83901-0 awarded by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. It has not been formally reviewed by EPA. The views expressed in this document are solely those of Columbia Riverkeeper and Oregon State University, and EPA does not endorse any products or commercial services mentioned in this publication.
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Chasing Chimeras at St. Johns Twin Cinema
2025-10-15 19:00 | St. Johns Twin Cinema, 8704 N Lombard St, Portland, Oregon, 97203
Film Screening & Panel Discussion!
If you missed last month’s screening, you have another opportunity to see Barbara Bernstein’s latest documentary, Chasing Chimeras: The Lure of Deceptive Climate Solutions, on October 15 at 7 pm at St. Johns Twin Cinema, 8704 N Lombard St in Portland, OR.
The screening will feature a post-movie panel discussion with the filmmaker and people featured in the film, including staff from Columbia Riverkeeper.
Tickets are available here.

Columbia River Volunteer Cleanup
2025-10-04 09:30 - 11:30 | Nichols Natural Area
Gather your friends and family and join us to celebrate stewardship and give back to the Columbia River!
Please join Columbia Riverkeeper for a river cleanup and invasive weed pull at the Nichols Natural Area near the Hood River Waterfront. Help protect clean water and create room for healthy and diverse riparian habitat.
October 4 @ 9:30a.m. – 11:30 a.m. PST
Nichols Natural Area, in front of the Hampton Inn, near the Hood River pedestrian bridge.
From Downtown Hood River, go north on Second Street and cross over I-84. Turn right on Riverside Drive followed by a right on N First St. Nichols Natural Area is in front of the Hampton Inn (1 Nichols Pkwy.).
RSVP using the form below.
Read the Volunteer Registration and Liability Release and Waiver Form and click agree below.
We will provide bags, gloves, and snacks. Some tools will be provided but feel free to bring your own. Please register using this link.

Rumble on the River #25
2025-09-25 17:00 | Lloyd Center, 1241 Lloyd Center, Portland, United States
What Can We Do About The CEI Hub?
It is time for the 25th Rumble on the River Community Forum! Join us on September 25 to celebrate the 25th Rumble and learn more about what’s happened and what’s ahead with the ongoing CEI Hub Policy Project.
The CEI Hub has been a recurring topic at Rumble forums over the years, including the potential hazards of having 90 percent of Oregon’s fuel and a dangerous mix of chemicals stored within Portland’s city limits on a riverside seismic liquefaction zone. This is an opportunity to help Portland make the right changes in rules and regulations to deal with the dangerous and climate disrupting Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub.
For the last two years, we have held community forums throughout Portland and surrounding areas. As we celebrate our 25th Rumble, we continue to honor the memory of one of the most well-loved and frequent panelists, Bob Sallinger.
No RSVP is required.
WHAT: Rumble on the River 25: What Can We Do About the CEI Hub
WHEN: September 25, 2025 at 5:00 p.m.

5:00 p.m. – The Unpresidented Brass Band performance
5:30 p.m. – Rumble Co-Sponsor Tabling & 25th Rumble Celebration
6:30 p.m. – Rumble Community Forum

WHERE: 1241 Lloyd Center

Use the northeast parking lot on NE Halsey by the old Marshalls store. Go in through the Lloyd Center entrance, steps away from the closed Marshalls entrance. The Rumble is inside, in a store to the right. Bikes are welcome inside the Rumble.

WHO: The Rumble Panel

Tom Armstrong–Supervising Planner for Portland Bureau of Planning & Sustainability
Marnie Glickman–Executive Director of the Braided River Campaign, Public Interest Attorney
Nikki Mandell–CEI Hub Task Force Member
Micah Meskel–Urban Conservation Director for the Bird Alliance of Oregon
Moderator: Nancy Hiser–Community Safety Advocate with Tank The Tanks and the Linnton Neighborhood Association

We hope you can join us on September 25 at 5:00 p.m. Please feel free to share this event with your networks.
Rumble Co-Sponsors
350 PDX
Alliance for Democracy
Arbor Lodge Neighborhood Association
Bernie PDX
Bird Alliance of Oregon
Braided River Campaign
Breach Collective
Cathedral Park Neighborhood Association
Columbia Riverkeeper
Community for Earth/First Unitarian Portland
Cully Association of Neighbors
EcoFaith Recovery
Economic Justice Action Group/First Unitarian Portland
Extinction Rebellion-PDX
Frog Ferry
Havurah Climate Action Team
Human Access Project
KBOO Radio 90.7
Kenton Neighborhood Association
Linnton Neighborhood Association
Mosquito Fleet
Mt Tabor Neighborhood Association
Neighbors for Clean Air
No More Freeways
OPAL, Environmental Justice Oregon
Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club
Oregon Conservancy Foundation
Oregon Physicians for Social Responsibility
Pearl District Neighborhood Association
P.E.S.T. Projection
Portland Committee on Human Rights in the Philippines
Portland Harbor Community Advisory Group
Portland Harbor Community Coalition
Portland Jobs with Justice
Portland Raging Grannies
Portland Youth Climate Strike
Portsmouth Neighborhood Association
St. Johns Neighborhood Association
Sauvie Island Community Association
Sunrise Movement PDX
Tank The Tanks
Th!rd Act Oregon
Willamette Riverkeeper

Chasing Chimeras at Cinema 21
2025-09-24 19:00 | Cinema 21, 616 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR, 97209, United States
Film Screening & Panel Discussion!
Make plans to attend a special screening of Barbara Bernstein’s latest documentary, Chasing Chimeras: The Lure of Deceptive Climate Solutions, featuring a post-movie panel discussion with the filmmaker and people featured in the film, including staff from Columbia Riverkeeper.
Buy Tickets

Voices for the West: What’s NEXT? Oregon’s Massively ‘False’ Climate Solution
2025-09-03 12:00 | OR
Houston-based company NEXT Renewable Fuels (NEXT) wants to build a non-conventional diesel refinery in the Columbia River Estuary near Clatskanie, Oregon. The second largest of its kind in the nation, the NEXT refinery’s energy-intensive process to create alternative fuels would consume as much fracked gas as the City of Eugene, and is permitted to emit 1 million tons of greenhouse gasses per year. The NEXT refinery also is proposed in an unstable wetland, where it would discharge harmful pollution during construction and operation, harm sensitive fish and wildlife habitat, create conditions for a catastrophic spill, and negatively impact local family farms.
Join our next Voices for the West webinar on September 3 at 12 p.m. for a discussion with Audrey Leonard, Staff Attorney at Columbia Riverkeeper, and Andrew Missel, Staff Attorney at Advocates for the West, on our challenges to this misguided proposal.

Register here to attend the webinar.

Watch a short video about the NEXT proposal.

Never Again: Art Speaks Where Words Fail
2025-08-06 18:00 - 19:00 | Hiroshima & Nagasaki Memorial, Japanese American Historical Plaza, NW Naito Parkway at NW Couch Street, Portland, OR, 97209, United States
Never Again: Art Speaks Where Words Fail – Art’s Enduring Protest 80 Years Later
Hiroshima & Nagasaki Memorial
Japanese American Historical Plaza,
NW Naito Parkway at NW Couch Street
Portland OR
Wednesday, August 6, 2025
6:00pm-7:00pm
This year marks 80 years since the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. As we reflect on this solemn anniversary, we invite you to join the Hiroshima and Nagasaki Planning Committee for our annual memorial event honoring the lives lost, the survivors (Hibakusha), and the global movement to abolish nuclear weapons.
Never Again: Art Speaks Where Words Fail — Art’s Enduring Protest 80 Years Later highlights the role of art as an enduring protest—telling stories, expressing grief, and inspiring action when words alone cannot.
The memorial will feature local speakers, artists, and performers including:
Performers:
Portland Taiko
BRAVO Youth Orchestra Quartet
Tsubaki Bayou Doukoukai
Todd Yuzuriha
Emily Washinescran

A Day of Reflection
2025-08-01 12:00 - 16:00 | Yakama Nation Agency Building, 401 Fort Rd, Toppenish, WA, 98948, United States
A Day of Reflection: Nuclear Remembrance in the Yakama Community
Traditional Lunch + Speaker Panel + Yakama Nation Tour
August 1 @ 12:00 – 4 pm PDT
Yakama Nation Cultural Heritage Center
Nchi Wana Room
100 Spiel-yi Loop, Toppenish, WA 98948
Join Columbia Riverkeeper and Yakama Nation’s Environmental Restoration Waste Management Program as we host the Fierce Nonviolence Pilgrimage on their journey to a nuclear-free world.
The Fierce Nonviolence Pilgrimage is an immersion training program in nonviolent social change for young adults. Traveling from the Midnight Mine in Spokane to the Hanford Nuclear Site near Richland, to the Trident Base in Seattle, participants will learn the history, strategies, and spirituality of nonviolent action, and leave with tools for social change they can bring home to their own communities.
Pilgrimage participants will hear powerful stories from communities impacted by the U.S. nuclear arsenal, including members of the Spokane Tribe of Indians, the Yakama Nation, the Marshallese community, and a hibakusha from Hiroshima. While exploring the beautiful landscape of the Pacific Northwest, the group will reflect on its desecration by nuclear weapons, as well as how to chart a different course towards peace and healing.
Friday August 1, 2025 from 12- 4 p.m.
You are invited to join this event for a traditional lunch and speaker panel, as well as a tour of the Yakama Nation. Panel speakers will include: Norimitsu Tosu, an 83 year-old atomic bomb survivor from Hiroshima; Fumi Tosu the founder of Dandelion House Catholic Worker community in Portland, OR. He is a second-generation hibakusha (atomic weapon survivor), and long-time nonviolent activist; Phil Rigdon, superintendent of Yakama Nation’s Department of Natural Resources, Brian Saluskin, Yakama Nation Tribal Council Member and fish passage biologist and Noah Contreras and Leilani Redheart, the next generation of Hanford advocates. The Tour will include a look at Yakama Nation’s Aviary, Bison, and Sturgeon Facilities, learn more about the Yakama Nation living culture and Tribal efforts to sustain and nurture that culture and the environment.
This event is free.
RSVP using the form below.

Event Schedule

12-2:45 p.m.
Traditional Lunch + Speaker panel
12 p.m. Yakama Nation Invocation
12-12:30 p.m. Traditional Lunch
12:30-12:40 p.m. Te Martin, song-keeper and ritual artist
12:40-12:45 p.m Welcome + speaker intros Columbia Riverkeeper
12:45-1:15 p.m. Norimitsu Tosu, an 83 year-old atomic bomb survivor from Hiroshima; Fumi Tosu the founder of Dandelion House Catholic Worker community in Portland, OR. He is a second-generation hibakusha (atomic weapon survivor), and long-time nonviolent activist
1:15-1:45 p.m. Phil Rigdon, superintendent of Yakama Nation’s Department of Natural Resources, Brian Saluskin, Yakama Nation Tribal Council Member and fish passage biologist.
1:45-2 p.m. Noah Contreras and Leilani Redheart, the next generation of Hanford advocates
2-2:45 p.m. Story Facilitattion with Mark Yaconelli

2:45-4 p.m.
Tour by Yakama Nation- Learn more about the Yakama Nation living culture and Tribal efforts to sustain and nurture that culture and the environment.
Tour includes the YN Aviary and Bison Facility and YN Sturgeon facility.

This product is funded through a Public Participation Grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology. Ecology reviewed the content for grant consistency but does not necessarily endorse it.

Hanford Public Meeting
2025-06-30 17:30 | Richland Public Library, 955 Northgate Drive, Richland, WA, 99352, United States
Hanford Public Meeting
Tell Energy that leaked high level waste is still high level waste
About the public meeting:
The Department of Energy has issued a 30-day public comment period from June 9 through August 18, 2025. This extension came after requests from Columbia Riverkeeper, Heart of America Northwest, and Hanford Challenge. Energy is holding a hybrid public meeting June 30, at 5:30 p.m. PT, at the Richland Public Library, 955 Northgate Drive, Richland, WA 99352. It will include a presentation on the proposed plan along with a question-and-answer session.
During the hybrid meeting, you can view the presentation, hear the speakers, and ask questions. To participate via Microsoft Teams, please follow the instructions below:
Join on your computer or Teams mobile app or call in (audio only) (509) 931-1284 United States (833) 633-0875 United States (Toll-free) Phone Conference ID: 156 530 249#
All comments must be submitted by July 9, in writing:

Sign Our Petition Online (preferred)
Email: Dana Cowley at 324_ProposedPlan@rl.gov (preferred)
Mail to: U.S. Department of Energy P.O. Box 450, H5-20 Richland, WA 99352

At the conclusion of the 30-day public comment period, DOE and EPA will address public comments and publish a responsiveness summary in the amended record of decision.
What: Public Meeting on Energy’s Proposed Plan for Amending the Record of Decision for the 300 Area
When: Monday, June 30, 2025 @ 5:30 p.m.
Where: Hybrid Meeting
In-person: The Richland Public Library, 955 Northgate Drive, Richland, WA 9352.
Microsoft Teams: Join on your computer or Teams mobile app: bit.ly/4kQGgfQ
Or call in (audio only) (509) 931-1284 United States (833) 633-0875
United States (Toll-free) Phone Conference ID: 156 530 249#
Remember, this is your chance to ask Energy questions and advocate for people, the environment, and the Columbia River.

Atomic Bamboozle Film Screening
2025-06-24 16:30 - 19:00 | Columbia Room at the Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St, Vancouver, WA, 98660, United States
What do the Trojan Nuclear Plant and today’s so-called “small modular reactors” have in common? A lot more than you think.
Join us on June 24 for a screening of the powerful film, Atomic Bamboozle—a documentary that unpacks the legacy of nuclear resistance in the Northwest and the dangerous myths surrounding a new wave of nuclear proposals.
Featuring voices from Tribal leaders, scientists, attorneys, and longtime activists. Stick around for a post-film panel with local leaders, including Columbia Riverkeeper’s Kelly Campbell.
Learn more about the film and watch a trailer here.
We anticipate this event filling up, register here to ensure your spot at this event.
When: Tuesday, June 24th from 4:30pm to 7:00pm
Where: Columbia Room at the Vancouver Community Library, 901 C St, Vancouver, WA 98660
Organized by the Watershed Alliance of Southwest Washington.

No Nuclear Day of Action
2025-05-19 09:00 - 16:00 | State Capital building in Salem, 900 Court St NE, Salem, OR, 97301, United States
May 19: Day of Action to Keep Oregon Nuclear-Free

Mark your calendar for the Keep Oregon Nuclear-Free Day of Action on May 19. Whether you can make it to Salem to meet with your legislators in person, or join a virtual meeting, we need your help to ensure that the Oregon legislature hears loud and clear that Oregonians do not want costly and dirty nuclear reactors in our state.

Of the whopping 13 pro-nuclear bills that were introduced this session, only two bills (HB 2410 and HB 2038) are still moving forward. We know that new nuclear power is not the answer: it is too costly, too dirty, and too late to be part of Oregon’s clean energy future. Unfortunately, big tech companies like Amazon are bankrolling this nuclear fantasy. Let’s make sure our legislators know that these bills should not pass.
HB 2410, would exempt Umatilla County from the statewide moratorium on building new nuclear reactors, allowing small modular nuclear reactors to be built in the county.
HB 2038 would require the Oregon Department of Energy to study nuclear power. This is an unnecessary distraction from the real challenge of meeting Oregon’s clean energy goals.
These bills divert funding from energy efficiency, renewable energy, and storage technologies that are safer, less expensive, and faster to deploy.
For those of you who can make it to Salem: We’ll kick off the day by connecting with fellow advocates over coffee, followed by a brief lobby training session to help you feel confident and prepared. Then, we’ll head to the Capitol together for scheduled meetings with your legislators.
For those joining virtually: we’ll provide training and talking points for your meetings with legislators.
What: Day of Action to Keep Oregon Nuclear-Free
When: Monday, May 19, 2025 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Where: State Capital building in Salem, or virtually
Who: Columbia Riverkeeper, Sierra Club, Rogue Climate, coalition partners, and you!
Once you sign up for the Day of Action, we’ll be in touch about all the logistics: setting up meetings with your legislators, talking points to use, carpooling, food, etc.

Second Zenith Public Hearing - Virtual
2025-05-15 18:00 - 20:00 | Virtual
This is our second chance to show up and give virtual testimony in opposition to Zenith’s proposal. DEQ will share information about the draft air quality permit, answer questions, and accept verbal comments.

WHEN: Thursday May 15 from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

WHEN: Register to join online via Zoom

Join via phone by calling 253-215-8782 WHERE:
Webinar ID: 839 0464 8181
Passcode: [REDACTED]

First Zenith Public Hearing and Rally - In Person
2025-05-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Buckley Center Auditorium, University of Portland, 5000 N Willamette Blvd, portland, OR, 97203, United States
URGENT UPDATE as of 2p.m. on May 12, 2025

Because of an unsubstantiated anonymous tip about potential disruptions at tonight’s Zenith hearing, University of Portland’s security has threatened to involve the police if any “rally” occurs outside the hearing venue. This could include holding signs, chanting, or other unspecified behavior.
We hope that you will still attend this important public hearing on Zenith—but we want you to understand the risks. This is our one chance to show up in person and let DEQ see the strength of the opposition to Zenith’s proposal. DEQ will share information about the draft air quality permit, answer questions, and accept verbal comments.
Monday, May 12, Public Hearing from 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Attend in person: Buckley Center Auditorium, University of Portland, 5000 N Willamette Blvd., Portland
Can’t make it in person? Register to join online via Zoom
Join via phone by calling 253-215-8782
Webinar ID: 863 5360 2272
Passcode: [REDACTED] when prompted.

Rumble on the River #23
2025-05-07 17:30 | Trinity United Methodist Church, 3915 SE Steele, portland, OR, 97202, United States
Rumble #23 – Care and Courage: Building Community and Fighting Back in Uncertain Times will be held on Wednesday, May 7.
Doors open for info tables at 5:30 p.m. Panel starts at 6:30 p.m.
The Rumble will be held at Trinity United Methodist Church.
Panel:
– Francisco Aguirre: Executive Director: VIVA Inclusive Migrant Network
– Candace Avalos: Portland City Councilor, District 1
– Joel Beinin: Professor of Middle East History, Emeritus, Stanford University
– Russell Lum: Political Organizer
– Damon Motz-Storey: Director, Oregon Chapter of the Sierra Club

PDX Film Screening
2025-04-27 16:00 - 18:00 | Cinema 21, 616 NW 21st Ave, Portland, OR, 97209, United States
Come watch Barbara Bernstein’s latest film, “Chasing Chimeras: The Lure of Deceptive Climate Solutions.”
Cinema 21, 616 NW 21st Ave, Portland
Sunday, April 27, 2025, at 4 PM

Purchase Tickets Here

“Chasing Chimeras: The Lure of Deceptive Climate Solutions” tells stories of people living in the crosshairs of fossil fuel industry proposals, working to expose the dangers that these projects pose to their lives, homes, communities, and the planet.
The documentary shows how city, state and federal governments and regulatory agencies are swayed by the fossil fuel industry’s self-promotion as purveyors of clean, low-carbon energy, and scrutinizes how state and federal programs promote and fund renewable diesel, biogas and hydrogen development, while disincentivizing the adoption of proven climate solutions.
After the screening there will be a panel discussion with the filmmaker and people featured in the film.

Celebrate Earth Day at Northlake Garden & Food Forest
2025-04-26 11:00 - 14:00 | Northlake Garden & Food Forest, 2210 Olympia Way, Longview, WA, 98632, United States
A community celebration of stewardship, sustainability, and springtime!
Join Lower Columbia School Gardens and partners for a hands-on, family-friendly Earth Day celebration. Tour the Northlake Garden & Food Forest, connect with local organizations, and learn how to care for the earth through activities, education, and community building. Be sure to stop by the Columbia Riverkeeper booth to play our fish identification game.

2025 Earth Day Cleanup
2025-04-19 09:30 - 11:30 | Nichols Natural Area
Gather your friends and family and join us to celebrate Earth Day and give back to the Columbia River!
Please join Columbia Riverkeeper for a river cleanup and invasive weed pull at the Nichols Natural Area near the Hood River Waterfront. Help beautify the river and create room for healthy and diverse riparian habitat. We hope you can join us!
Saturday, April 19, 2025, from 9:30 – 11:30 a.m.

Nichols Natural Area, in front of the Hampton Inn, near the Hood River pedestrian bridge.
From Downtown Hood River, go north on Second Street and cross over I-84. Turn right on Riverside Drive followed by a right on N First St. Nichols Natural Area is in front of the Hampton Inn (1 Nichols Pkwy).
RSVP using the form below.
Read the Volunteer Registration and Liability Release and Waiver Form and click agree below.
We will provide bags, gloves, and snacks. Some tools will be provided but feel free to bring your own. Please register using this link.

Raise your voice!
2025-04-10 17:30 - 19:30 | Uprise Brewing Company, 617 N Ash St, Spokane, WA, 99201, United States
Spokane Hanford Community Forum
Spokane, we want to hear from you!
Who: Columbia Riverkeeper and Hanford Challenge
What: Spokane Hanford Community Forum
When: April 10, 2025 5:30-7:30 p.m. – forum starts at 6 p.m.
Where: Uprise Brewing Company, the Mezzanine, 617 N Ash St, Spokane, WA 99201
Why: We want to hear from you, Spokane! Join Columbia Riverkeeper and Hanford Challenge on Thursday, April 10th in Spokane for an opportunity to voice input on Hanford cleanup. How are you feeling about the Hanford cleanup? What are your priorities and concerns? What do you want the Hanford site to look like when cleanup is “done?”
How: This event is in-person. Please RSVP below to let us know you’re coming.
Cost: Free and open to the public. Appetizers and non-alcoholic beverages will be provided.
This event is partially funded through a Public Participation Grant from the Washington State Department of Ecology.

Sugarpine x Lardo sandwich collab
2025-04-01 00:00 - 2025-04-30 00:00 | Lardo Sandwiches, 1212 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR, 97214, United States
Collaboration sandwich benefits Columbia Riverkeeper
Throughout the month of April you can purchase Sugarpine Drive-In Big Island Blue Plate mochiko chicken fried steak chefwich at Lardo with a portion of proceeds benefiting Columbia Riverkeeper.

https://www.lardosandwiches.com/
https://sugarpinedrivein.com/

Columbia River Canoe Project
2025-03-20 18:15 - 20:00 | OMSI, 1945 SE Water Ave, Portland, OR, 97214, United States
An Adventure from the Continental Divide to the Pacific Ocean
The Columbia River Canoe Project film follows a 1,300-mile canoe expedition from the Continental Divide near Butte, Montana, all the way to the Pacific Ocean. Followed by panel discussion about the health of the Columbia River with Robert Lester, Columbia River Canoe Project leader, and Miles Johnson, Legal Director for Columbia Riverkeeper.

$8 Adults, $7 Seniors, $6 Youth; OMSI members receive 15% off

Buy Tickets Here

Columbia Riverkeeper at the Public Interest Environmental Law Conference (PIELC)
2025-02-28 - 2025-03-02 | University of Oregon campus, Eugene, OR, 1585 E 13th Ave, Eugene, OR, 97403, United States
Columbia Riverkeeper is headed to PIELC! Find us at the following panels:
Greenwashing on the Columbia River: Stopping the NEXT Refinery

A company called NEXT wants to build a massive “renewable” diesel refinery on the Columbia River. It’s a dirty deal for climate, salmon, and local farmers. Come learn from 4 attorneys about the legal and grassroots tactics used to fight the refinery’s development at the local, state, and federal levels.

Nukes across the Columbia? Small Modular Nuclear Reactors in Washington to Power Oregon’s Data Centers

This panel will address the Big Tech surge to develop small modular nuclear reactors to meet the voracious energy demands of data centers, AI, crypto-currencies and cloud computing. The plan: build SMNRs in the Hanford vicinity of Washington to power data centers in Oregon. This would handily circumvent the 1980 voter-mandated law which bars new nuclear plant construction within Oregon without a voter reversal and the establishment of a federally licensed waste repository. Discussion will delve into the plan, treaty rights, economic and safety issues associated with SMNRs and rationality of feeding AI’s extreme energy appetite.

Conference: February 28-March 2, 2025
University of Oregon campus, Eugene, OR
For more information, please visit https://www.pielc.org/

RUMBLE ON THE RIVER #20: The Rumble Run-Down
2025-02-20 17:30 - 20:00 | St. Luke Lutheran Church, 4595 SW California Street, Portland, OR, 97219, United States
Join the 20th Rumble on the River community forum, featuring two Columbia Riverkeeper staff members! This panel will give a run-down of four important local issues:

Zenith Energy’s Expansion Schemes
PGE’s Proposed Intrusion Into Forest Park
Port Westward Plans: Massive Refinery & Rail Yard in the Columbia River Estuary
Surge of Artificial Intelligence & Data Centers: Threats To Oregon’s 45 Year-Old Anti-Nuke Law.

Time/Date: February 20 Info tables at 5:30 p.m., panel at 6:30 p.m.
Location: St. Luke Lutheran Church 4595 SW California Street, Portland, OR 97219
Cost: Rumbles are always FREE
Speakers:

Karly Chin: Advocacy Program Coordinator with Bird Alliance Of Oregon
Audrey Leonard: Staff Attorney with Columbia Riverkeeper
Kate Murphy: Senior Community Organizer with Columbia Riverkeeper
Barbara Bernstein: KBOO Radio’s Locus Focus Host & Media Gadfly

*Rumble on the River community forums bring expert voices together to discuss a range of environmental topics. Rumbles are co-sponsored by 45 local organizations.

Migration to Community: Latinos/as at Hanford and the Tri-Cities
2025-02-07 17:30 - 19:00 | 1943 Columbia Park Trail Richland, WA 99353, 1943 Columbia Park Trail, Richland, WA, 99353, United States
You are invited!
Opening reception of the Migration to Community: Latinos/as at Hanford and the Tri-Cities
Exhibit is held at the REACH Museum on February 7th from 5:30 – 7 p.m.

REACH Museum
1943 Columbia Park Trail
Richland, WA 99353

Curated by Drew Gamboa, Latino Community Outreach Intern with Manhattan Project NHP, this exhibit draws from Drew’s research into the under-told history of the contributions of Latinos/as to the Manhattan Project at Hanford.

Big River Gathering
2024-11-21 18:30 - 21:00 | OR
Join Columbia Riverkeeper for a fun, inspiring community event. The Big River Gathering will elevate your spirits and ground you in the enormous beauty, longevity, and power that is the Columbia River as we navigate trying times, together!
What: Big River Gathering
When: Thursday, November 21, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m.
Where: The Ruins, 13 Railroad St., Hood River, Oregon
Featuring:

David Moskowitz and his extraordinary photography. Big River, David’s newest book, will be available for purchase!
Simone Anter, Staff Attorney & Hanford Program Director, Columbia Riverkeeper
Lorri Epstein, Water Quality Director, Columbia Riverkeeper
Lauren Goldberg, Executive Director, Columbia Riverkeeper
Miles Johnson, Legal Director, Columbia Riverkeeper

Cost: Free! The event is free and open to the public. Come enjoy free snacks and desserts. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. Donations for Columbia Riverkeeper are welcome and encouraged.
RSVP: Due to space limitations, RSVP is required.

Come Celebrate! DEQ Cancels Zenith Hearings!
2024-11-19 18:00 - 21:00 | 350PDX Workspace, 3639 N Mississippi Avenue, 5000 N Willamette Blvd, Portland, OR
Big news: you spoke up and it worked! The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) just paused the air permitting process for Zenith Energy and canceled two public hearings scheduled for Nov. 19 and Dec. 4.

The change in plans is due to findings from DEQ’s unannounced inspection of Zenith’s facility on Nov. 13. The DEQ’s inspection focused on the McCall Oil dock, which Zenith illegally incorporated in 2021 to expand its operations—one of Zenith’s Legacy of Violations and Lies. According to an Oregonian article, the DEQ’s Air Quality Permit Manager Lisa Ball explained the inspection was prompted by questions from community members about Zenith’s operations that the DEQ couldn’t answer. Ball stated, “This is a complete result of the public process. We’re very proud of our community for bringing questions up that pushed us to investigate further.”

In the News:
Advocates “Cautiously Optimistic” About DEQ Decision to Delay Zenith Air Quality Permit, Portland Mercury, November 14, 2024
State puts hold on Zenith Energy’s controversial air permit process in surprise move, Oregonian, November 14, 2024

This is not the end of the Zenith saga, but is a clear sign that we have the attention of regulators.

Come Celebrate
Think you have nothing to do on 11/19 since the hearing was canceled? Think again! Join us for “Zenith On The Ropes,” a moment to come together, take a deep breath, and celebrate.
Tuesday, November 19th AT 6:00 p.m.
350PDX Workspace, 3639 N Mississippi Avenue MAP
Music. Speakers. Pizza. People. Learn about what this cancellation may mean for our region and Zenith.
