Oregon Water Stories: Umatilla County

Oregon Water Stories is a project of PSU Professor Melissa Haefner’s freshman inquiry class, running from 2018 to present. The goal of the project is to gather stories from around the state of Oregon that relate to the modern relationship between humans and water. Haefner’s 2023 class wrote profiles on various Oregon counties that explored the different water challenges being tackled around the state. The following profile from one of Haefner’s students has been abridged and revised, with permission, for sharing here.

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Understanding the Umatilla Basin

Nestled in northeastern Oregon, the Umatilla River winds through the picturesque Blue Mountains, traversing farmlands and eventually joining the Columbia River. Though small—spanning just 89 miles and draining 2,290 square miles—the Umatilla Basin is a vital resource for the region. Its snowmelt feeds over 17,000 acres, providing drinking water and supporting agricultural and economic activities. However, the basin’s communities face pressing water-related challenges: water-quality degradation and flooding.

The Water Quality Challenge: Nitrate Pollution

Nitrate contamination is one of the most critical issues in the Umatilla Basin. First identified in the 1990s, nitrate levels in drinking water have escalated alarmingly, with some sources exceeding Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) safety thresholds by four times. Consuming such water is linked to severe health risks, including cancer, according to the National Cancer Institute.

The root causes of this contamination are primarily agricultural and industrial activities. For instance, the Port of Morrow and local food processing facilities have been fined for discharging excessive nitrates into vulnerable groundwater areas. Despite these violations, enforcement has often lagged, allowing pollution to persist.

Fortunately, there are efforts underway to mitigate this crisis. The Umatilla Basin Water Commission (UBWC) has launched the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) program, setting pollutant limits and collaborating with local farmers to adopt best management practices. These measures aim to reduce runoff and improve soil health, providing hope for cleaner water in the future.

Flooding: A Persistent Threat

Flooding is another major issue in the Umatilla Basin, with recent events causing significant damage. In 2020, devastating floods destroyed homes, farmland, and infrastructure, with recovery efforts expected to take up to two decades. Floodplain residents face a 26% chance of catastrophic flooding during a 30-year mortgage period, yet proactive solutions remain limited.

The most impactful approach—constructing dams, levees, or dikes—is hindered by environmental concerns and funding constraints. Instead, local governments have updated flood plans, emphasizing evacuation and response over prevention. While these measures provide some relief, they underscore the need for more sustainable, long-term solutions.

Looking Forward: Turning Challenges into Opportunities

While the challenges in the Umatilla Basin are daunting, they also present opportunities for innovation and collaboration. Local communities, environmental groups, and policymakers can come together to implement creative solutions, such as:

1. Advanced Water Filtration Systems: Investing in modern, cost-effective filtration technologies can provide immediate relief to residents affected by nitrate contamination.
2. Community-Led Initiatives: Grassroots efforts, such as citizen science programs and water conservation campaigns, can empower residents to take an active role in protecting their resources.
3. Sustainable Infrastructure: Green infrastructure projects, like wetlands restoration and natural floodplain management, can address flooding while enhancing ecosystems.
4. Education and Advocacy: Raising awareness about water issues can galvanize public support for funding and policy changes.

By embracing innovative strategies and fostering collaboration, the region can transform its water challenges into opportunities for sustainable growth and prosperity. With determination and unity, the Umatilla Basin can become a model for water stewardship and environmental resilience, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come.