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Environmental Law News

Hydraulic fracturing linked to earthquakes

Scientists from the U.S. Geological Survey release study showing sharp increase in number of earthquakes across the central U.S.; thought to be linked to hydraulic fracturing.

Oregon Legislature poised to institute 3 no-fishing marine zones off Oregon Coast

SB 1510, which has gained bipartisan support, was introduced in the state senate and is partially motivated by fears that conservation groups will put forth a ballot initiative which would provide for far greater protection. Legislators fear that such a measure would cause extreme economic hardship to coastal communities.

U.S. Navy sued over sonar impacts on whales along the West Coast

An environmental law firm, Earth Justice, filed suit against the U.S. Navy on behalf of conservation groups and Native American tribes along the West Coast, claiming that increased sonar activity is harming whales and other sea wildlife.

Oregon chapter of the American Meteorological Society hosts panel of global warming skeptics in Portland

The local AMS chapter hosted a panel of Oregon-based scientists, including a physicist, meteorologist, and former Oregon State climatologist in Portland Wednesday. Promoters moved the event, which drew over 400 people, to a hotel ballroom after OMSI canceled it in November, citing a lack of balance.

Appeals Courts rule against developers in two property rights battles

The Oregon Court of Appeals held that subdivision developer on Pete's Mountain did not have a vested right to complete a proposed 41-home development under Measure 37.  Similarly, the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals upheld a lower court ruling that Oregon did not commit a taking when it modified development options.

New EPA study: power plants were largest CO2 emitters in 2010

EPA's Greenhouse Reporting Program reveals that power plants emit 72.3% of total carbon dioxide emissions reported to the EPA.

Environmental groups appeal Coos Bay dredging project

Environmental groups appealed a state dredging permit that would foster increased shipping capacity from Coos Bay, raising concerns about harmful environmental effects.

New EPA rule adds uncertainty to Boardman power plant's future

New federal regulation on coal plant pollution could prompt PGE to close Oregon's only coal-fired power plant earlier than the planned 2020 closure date.