State of Water Justice in Oregon: A Primer on How Oregon Water Infrastructure Challenges Affect Frontline Communities Across the State

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Date

2022-08

Authors

Oregon Environmental Council
Oregon Water Futures
Dalgaard, Stacey

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

University of Oregon

Abstract

Clean water is foundational to every aspect of our lives — community health, spiritual and cultural fulfillment, a strong economy, relaxation and recreation, and thriving ecosystems. Yet, Oregonians have no guaranteed right to clean water. This leaves people vulnerable to the impacts of poor water quality, lack of access to water, unaffordable water costs, and diminished natural resources. This report builds on existing research to provide statewide context to water challenges identified by frontline communities.1 Snippets of national research, media reports, and anecdotes viewed together begin to paint a picture of how to understand water justice in Oregon. However, broader analysis comparing Oregon water issues in the context of social vulnerability and environmental justice is still needed. Many of these issues affect everyone, but frontline and low-income communities are impacted by compounding challenges that multiply the negative impacts of water problems and make it harder to adapt to them.

Description

66 pages

Keywords

water insecurities, environmental justice, climate change

Citation