Oregon Agencies Report Limited Progress on Eastern Oregon Nitrate Pollution
More than a year after the release of Oregon's Nitrate Reduction Plan, aimed at addressing nitrate pollution in Eastern Oregon, a progress report indicates that significant work remains. The plan, initiated by four state agencies, targets reducing nitrate levels in the Lower Umatilla Basin, which spans Morrow and Umatilla Counties. The primary sources of nitrate contamination are large-scale irrigated farms, livestock farms, and food processing facilities. The plan aims to lower nitrate concentrations to below 7 milligrams per liter, while some areas currently exceed the federal limit of 10 milligrams per liter. The report highlights increased funding for testing domestic wells and community education efforts, particularly in Latino or Hispanic communities. However, environmental advocates express dissatisfaction, noting a lack of tangible progress. The report also details inspections by the Oregon Water Resources Department, revealing that many fields lack proper backflow prevention, a requirement for 30 ... 
