 (Activists block departure of Shell Oil vessel heading to Arctic on St. Johns bridge in Portland, 2015.) This is a pivotal moment in our history. We are being called to courageously show up, to take a stand for our common humanity, throw out the bullies, protect what we love, and build the just world we all want. This is when we find out who we are. This is what living by our principles looks like. APRIL IS A SPECIAL MONTH OF ACTION! Bravo! We showed up Saturday in unprecedented numbers at Hands Off protests (over 1000 actions across the country)! The resistance has begun in earnest. It’s time to amp up the pressure. Read on & jump in!  (Note: 350 Eugene is part of the new, growing, local grassroots Activist Coalition Eugene Springfield (ACES), which organized the Hands Off protest. ACES is committed to building massive grassroots power for progressive change and operates under Indivisible's nonviolent framework.) PEOPLE ARE DEMANDING A SANE & STABLE FUTURE WE MUST RESIST THE CRAZY & CREATE A BETTER WORLD PROTECT OUR PNW FORESTS Monday, April 7th at 5:00 pm (PT) - Break Biomass Day of Action Webinar  Our national forests are on the chopping block, by order of the administration. The industrial biomass industry is coming for Washington, Oregon & northern California forests. But as the Thin Green Line of the Pacific Northwest, we won’t stand by while our forests are pelletized and burned to heat buildings in Europe & Japan! Join the National Call to Action to Break Big Biomass on April 7th at 5PM PT. (Please note the presenter’s time zone: 8:00 pm Eastern.) Discover the truth about industrial biomass. It’s built on lies. They've cut more than a million acres of Southeast US forests already and left a trail of pollution and health hazards in their wake in rural, under-resourced Black and Indigenous communities. We’re not letting this happen here.  Burning forests in power plants is not a clean energy solution. The fight is on! CITY OF EUGENE’S REIMAGING EARTH DAY CELEBRATION Sunday, April 13th from 2 to 6:00 pm at the Farmer’s Market Pavillion Drop by 350 Eugene’s booth! We’ll be debuting our new fabulous big tree puppets & Monarch butterfly swarm at our “Protect What’s Left” table and giving away prizes. We’re helping folks fall in love with our irreplaceable forests and demand durable policies to protect them. We want you to help animate our display! Always wanted to be a Monarch butterfly or Douglas fir? Contact Deb at [email protected] to sign up for a one-hour shift. CITY COUNCIL - BACK FROM BREAK - GIVE ‘EM AN EARFUL Monday, April 14th at 7:15 pm at City Hall, 500 E 4th Street, Eugene Is there enough strong climate leadership on city council to do what’s necessary to reduce our emissions from methane (natural gas). It’s a no brainer. Cities across the country are enacting legally defensible policies to limit gas infrastructure in new buildings and incentivize fuel-switching to safe, clean, renewable electric appliances. WE NEED ACTION! Show up wearing RED and stand in solidarity with Fossil Free Eugene (350 is a founding member) and show we’re not taking NO for an answer. (Social time following public comments.) Sustained public pressure gets the goods. That’s what the grassroots do best! EARTH DAY EVERYDAY GAME - QUEST BY CYCLE Sunday, April 20th, - Earth Day Everyday Game - starts at 1:30 pm at Klink Cycles (385 W 2nd Ave., Eugene) You're invited to a joyful, music-filled celebration, as Quest by Cycle kicks off its newest eco-adventure.  STREET MESSAGING - TREE PUPPETS & BUTTERFLIES Monday, April 21st from 2 to 3:30 pm at 30th Street & Hilyard We’re celebrating Earth Day by showing off our new tree puppets & Monarch butterfly swarm at the intersection of 30th & Hilyard across from Alberston’s. Everyone is invited. We’d love to see you there! Everything is provided.
Who speaks for the trees? We speak for the trees! Pizza following at Hey Neighbor! at 19th & Jefferson. Fresh air and friendly conversation. Meet the community and share Earth Day messages of hope & love for our forests. SAY NO TO THE BLUE & GOLD LOGGING PROJECT Tuesday, April 22nd - Road Trip to Roseburg! Rally & Hike: It’s fun to hit the road with our buddies at Cascadia Wildlands to protect what’s left of healthy forests in neighboring watersheds. Info &***MEET UP LOCATION SHARED FOLLOWING RSVP***.  “THE JUNGLE” DOCUMENTARY - MEAT, GREED & PROFIT Wednesday, April 23rd at 6:30 pm at the Art House (film & panel) Unraveling centuries of greed and exploitation in America’s meat industry, “The Jungle” is a modern-day take on Upton Sinclair’s shocking 1906 novel. Join us for a screening of this new documentary and moderated panel discussion with panelists Food and Water Watch’s Aimee Stone, Laughingstock Farm’s Paul Atkinson and Deck Farm’s Laura Wayte & Adam Daeson.  More information and tickets here. Order early. They’ll be going fast! OREGON LEGISLATIVE SESSION IS IN FULL SWING 350 Eugene’s Legislative Action Alerts - let’s drive maximum public input! Sign up with Roger Knudson to receive quick and easy-to-follow action alerts for bills we’re tracking. Drop him an email at [email protected] with “Action Alerts” in the subject line. We’re already submitting many more comments with this new system! (It will be discontinued when the session is over on June 30th.)  Do YOU or someone you know want to work in the climate justice space? The Fossil Free Eugene Coordinator position is open ($30-32/hour (DoE) for an average of 20 hours/per week). This is a contract position. Priority review of applications will begin Thursday, April 10, 2025. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The position is open until filled. Anticipate an early May start date. Spread the word. More info here. We will not go quietly.
We will not obey in advance. We will not be ruled by kings. APRIL IS THE MONTH FOR ACTION!
0 Comments
It's never been more important to pass critical state climate and energy policy.  For this legislative session, 350 Eugene's State Policy Team has created a special email list where you can receive clear action alerts for you to submit timely and effective public comments on relevant Oregon Senate and House bills. (This is apart from the regular 350EUG newsletter / blast.)
If you do not wish to receive these legislative alerts, no action is necessary. If you DO wish to receive alerts, respond to Roger Knudson at [email protected] with a one-line response: "Yes, send me legislative alerts." Please reply promptly as the legislative session is well under way. If at any time you wish to unsubscribe, email Roger and he will remove you from the list. The list will become inactive on the last day of the legislative session and your contact information will not be shared. Note: Please add [email protected] to your contacts list so the alerts don't end up in Spam. Progressive grassroots groups like 350 Eugene are amping up efforts to affect the vital changes that the accelerating climate and biodiversity crises demand. Join the fight! We'll make it easy for you to take these important steps! Stronger together! Thank you.  There are cracks forming in the wall of the administration’s cruel & chaotic shredding of our federal agencies and workforce. People are shaking off bewilderment and are taking to the streets! (50501 Protest at Eugene City Hall March 4, 2025. Photos courtesy of Robert Scherle.) 350 Eugene pushes for strong climate policy & action at the local and state level. Our campaigns focus on clean energy for buildings and forest protection. But we also need Democracy. So we’re carving out time to hit the streets to grow Big Tent Resistance! We know you are too. You can find local pop-up protests on the Mobilize Us website, which includes events organized by Indivisible Eugene-Springfield. (Bookmark it!) We’ll see you there! Action The Northwest Forest Plan (NWFP), first landscape scale conservation plan of its kind in the world, is under review by the US Forest Service. They are accepting public comments through March 17th. The three alternative proposals in their Draft Environmental Impact Statement (DEIS) are poised to double or triple logging on our public lands. The “trade off” is that their proposals will now include long overdue Tribal Knowledge and good fire. This is a bad deal. Here’s a one minute video to see what’s at stake. We’re joining Climate-Forest campaigners across the nation to submit MASSIVE NUMBERS of public comments right up through March 17th. The climate emergency calls for urgently protecting our national forests right now. Natural forests are the best natural climate solution we have! DID YOU KNOW? Forest-lovers can submit more than one comment, making different points. Use the US Forest Service NWFP Public Comment portal here to express your disapproval of ANY INCREASED LOGGING ON PUBLIC LANDS and to retain Tribal Sovereignty aspects. If you’d like to get fired up before writing, check out the excellent talking points in the Pacific Northwest Forest Climate Alliance toolkit. It’s kind of amazing that the administration is allowing the public process to proceed… but since they are… LET'S BLOW THEIR MINDS WITH MASSIVE COMMENTS! Go to the USFS comment portal now and give them a piece of your mind! Thanks for Showing Up The turnout for our Northwest Forest Plan Commenting Workshop last week exceeded expectations! Thanks to our presenters, our host at Drop Bear Brewery and ALL OF YOU who came and listened and submitted heartfelt, personal comments. The Raging Grannies (here’s their NWFP song) and Mardi Gras King Cakes were a big hit too! Great photos from Robert Scherle.  (Photos credit to Robert Scherle) WHO WILL SPEAK FOR THE FORESTS? WE WILL! STREET MESSAGING FOR THE PEOPLE When: Thursday, March 13th and Friday the 21st, 2:00-3:30 pm (March 21st is International Day of Forests) Where: Along West 18th Ave, east of the Bi-Mart parking lot next to Westmoreland Park We’ll animate the beautiful tree signs and other banners & props we painted with forest climate messages and engage passersby. Meet up on the south side of 18th at the corner of the Bi-Mart parking lot just before 2 pm. Bring a lawn chair if you like to sit down. Everything is provided. Fresh air & friendly conversation. We hope you can join us! (On Friday, March 21st, we’ll adjourn to Hey Neighbor! Pizza at 19th & Jefferson. The pizza is on us!) NORTHWEST FOREST PLAN - PUBLIC COMMENTS DUE BY MARCH 17TH STATE POLICY There is a lot happening in the Oregon legislature this session. With super majorities in both our House and the Senate now is the time for action! We are so fortunate to be able to live in a state that is working to make real change to protect our environment and move us into a safe future. In our last newsletter we offered links to easily submit public testimony. Here are a few of the bills we feel are very important right now:
Please get on Oregon Legislative Information System, where you can choose the Citizen Engagement tab and find out when to take action! Thank you. Watch this space for future Special Legislation Action Alerts. April is Earth Month |
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State Policy
Oregon Coalition for an Environmental Rights Amendment (OCERA) Lobby Day
Great success getting co-sponsors for the OCERA bill at Lobby Day on December 11th! Big thanks to the organizers and our local state policy team, Dan Mulholland, Linda Kelley and Robin Bloomgarden, pictured above, with new bill co-sponsor Oregon House Representative-elect District 8, Lisa Fragala. You can read the bill here. It’s a game-changer!
Divest Oregon - The Pause Act - Pause PERS Private Investments in Fossil Fuels in 2025! A Five-Year Moratorium on Private Fossil Fuel Investments
Divest Oregon has had a very busy year: Successfully passed the COAL Act by building strong ties with legislators, spoke at monthly Oregon Investment Council meetings, got Treasurer-elect Steiner to commit to the Net Zero Plan and elevated it to an issue in the Treasurer's race, held a successful Treasurer candidate forum, worked with allies in WA, IL, CA and NY and presented nationally as state divestment experts. Wow!
You can look / listen to the December meeting slides and recording to get a glimpse of how much progress our campaign is making. Here’s a fact sheet on the Pause Act.
In 2025, if you are willing to meet virtually with your legislator in support of the Pause Act in January or attend an upcoming Lobby Day in Salem (date TBD), please fill out this form. Even if you’ve signed up in the past, please sign up again to get your new legislator info and you’ll be contacted!
Note: For virtual Pause Act meetings, we’ll schedule the meetings and invite you. Someone from Divest Oregon will attend and do a constituent prep beforehand.
More on state climate policy: Established by state law in 2007 as the Global Warming Commission, the newly named “Oregon Climate Action Commission,” was created to recommend ways to coordinate state and local efforts to reduce Oregon's greenhouse gas emissions, and to help the state, local governments, businesses, and Oregonians prepare for the effects of climate change.
The Commission will meet on January 10, 2025. The public meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to noon online. At this meeting the Commission will discuss Natural and Working Lands and the Commission’s 2025 Work Plan. Most of the meeting will focus on reviewing work plan topics and will generate input for future areas of focus and priorities in the coming year.
The agenda and meeting information, including how to listen in, is available on the Commission’s website.
FOREST CLIMATE DEFENSE- the news isn’t good
As you know, the US Forest Service has been tasked to update all its national forest plans, ostensibly with climate and biodiversity protection in mind. The plan governing our region, the Northwest Forest Plan (NWFP), is a landmark policy from 1994 that finally and significantly protects our region’s old growth and imperiled species. It is being threatened.
The Initial Analysis of Northwest Forest Plan Amendment Draft Environmental Impact Statement Alternatives (four-page) summary report from Oregon Wild, Cascadia Wildlands, Bird Alliance of Oregon and Wild Earth Guardians shows that the U.S. Forest Service has proposed its own sweeping changes to the NWFP that could double—and potentially triple—logging levels on our national forests and re-open mature and old-growth stands to aggressive logging.
After four years of hard work by the national Climate Forests Coalition and our own regional Pacific Northwest Forest Climate Alliance (PNWFCA), organizers are re-evaluating how to be most effective at protecting what’s left of our national and private forest lands given the change in national leadership.
We’re gearing up for action in 2025 with planning retreats, commenting sessions, work groups and spring / summer events. It can be a steep learning curve for climate activists to wrap our heads around national land management practices, but the single biggest climate solution in Cascadia is without a doubt protecting mature and old growth forests!
How do we fight back? Educate ourselves, network, support and show-up with our forest conservation allies!
Wednesday, January 22nd - Firefighters for Safety, Ethics and Ecology (FUSEE) and partners will be hosting the Just Futures Symposium with speakers discussing the impacts of the NWFP on Tribal inclusion and environmental justice. RSVP here. Free and open to the public.
Divest Oregon - The Pause Act - Pause PERS Private Investments in Fossil Fuels in 2025! A Five-Year Moratorium on Private Fossil Fuel Investments
Divest Oregon has had a very busy year: Successfully passed the COAL Act by building strong ties with legislators, spoke at monthly Oregon Investment Council meetings, got Treasurer-elect Steiner to commit to the Net Zero Plan and elevated it to an issue in the Treasurer's race, held a successful Treasurer candidate forum, worked with allies in WA, IL, CA and NY and presented nationally as state divestment experts. Wow!
You can look / listen to the December meeting slides and recording to get a glimpse of how much progress our campaign is making. Here’s a fact sheet on the Pause Act.
In 2025, if you are willing to meet virtually with your legislator in support of the Pause Act in January or attend an upcoming Lobby Day in Salem (date TBD), please fill out this form. Even if you’ve signed up in the past, please sign up again to get your new legislator info and you’ll be contacted!
Note: For virtual Pause Act meetings, we’ll schedule the meetings and invite you. Someone from Divest Oregon will attend and do a constituent prep beforehand.
More on state climate policy: Established by state law in 2007 as the Global Warming Commission, the newly named “Oregon Climate Action Commission,” was created to recommend ways to coordinate state and local efforts to reduce Oregon's greenhouse gas emissions, and to help the state, local governments, businesses, and Oregonians prepare for the effects of climate change.
The Commission will meet on January 10, 2025. The public meeting will be held from 9 a.m. to noon online. At this meeting the Commission will discuss Natural and Working Lands and the Commission’s 2025 Work Plan. Most of the meeting will focus on reviewing work plan topics and will generate input for future areas of focus and priorities in the coming year.
The agenda and meeting information, including how to listen in, is available on the Commission’s website.
FOREST CLIMATE DEFENSE- the news isn’t good
As you know, the US Forest Service has been tasked to update all its national forest plans, ostensibly with climate and biodiversity protection in mind. The plan governing our region, the Northwest Forest Plan (NWFP), is a landmark policy from 1994 that finally and significantly protects our region’s old growth and imperiled species. It is being threatened.
The Initial Analysis of Northwest Forest Plan Amendment Draft Environmental Impact Statement Alternatives (four-page) summary report from Oregon Wild, Cascadia Wildlands, Bird Alliance of Oregon and Wild Earth Guardians shows that the U.S. Forest Service has proposed its own sweeping changes to the NWFP that could double—and potentially triple—logging levels on our national forests and re-open mature and old-growth stands to aggressive logging.
After four years of hard work by the national Climate Forests Coalition and our own regional Pacific Northwest Forest Climate Alliance (PNWFCA), organizers are re-evaluating how to be most effective at protecting what’s left of our national and private forest lands given the change in national leadership.
We’re gearing up for action in 2025 with planning retreats, commenting sessions, work groups and spring / summer events. It can be a steep learning curve for climate activists to wrap our heads around national land management practices, but the single biggest climate solution in Cascadia is without a doubt protecting mature and old growth forests!
How do we fight back? Educate ourselves, network, support and show-up with our forest conservation allies!
Wednesday, January 22nd - Firefighters for Safety, Ethics and Ecology (FUSEE) and partners will be hosting the Just Futures Symposium with speakers discussing the impacts of the NWFP on Tribal inclusion and environmental justice. RSVP here. Free and open to the public.
Join Us for More January Events
Thursday, January 16th at 6:30 pm film at the Art House - Eating for Tomorrow
Eating For Tomorrow is a powerful and brilliantly produced documentary that exposes the devastating environmental impact of our current food systems. With the planet teetering toward ecological collapse, the film calls for a global dietary shift and illuminates the path to a sustainable future for us all. 350 Eugene is co-sponsor. Learn more and buy tickets here.
Sunday, January 19th at 1:00 pm Anti-imperialist Rally & March at the Wayne Morse Federal Courthouse, 405 E 8th, Ave. Eugene - Defeat Trump’s Extreme-right Billionaire Agenda.
Sunday, January 19th at 1:00 pm Anti-imperialist Rally & March at the Wayne Morse Federal Courthouse, 405 E 8th, Ave. Eugene - Defeat Trump’s Extreme-right Billionaire Agenda.
Other News
We have a new social media channel: Blue Sky!
Have you seen our cool slides in the local theaters? (Hats off to Joanie Kleban - our Artivist in Chief.)
Have you seen our cool slides in the local theaters? (Hats off to Joanie Kleban - our Artivist in Chief.)
The Emerald Valley Electric Vehicle Association (EVEVA) has a great FB page where you can learn about the latest incentives and local EV opportunities. Check it out!
Some good news & national fame for 350 Eugene - In the Microgrid Resources Coalition (MRC) Newsletter under Oregon: The MRC continues building upon its successful work with the State Legislature and the Oregon Department of Energy to create a County Energy Resilience Grant Program that will fund the planning of microgrid and resiliency projects in local communities in Oregon. In collaboration with our local coalition partners like Sustainable Northwest, Community Renewable Energy Association, 350 Eugene, and other key stakeholders, the MRC is preparing to engage in the 2025 Legislative Session and advocate for policy proposals that will advance microgrid and community energy project development across the state of Oregon.
(Note: Big thanks to our awesome local Policy Team’s efforts and their innovative work on the Eugene Airport’s Solar Project / grant from Oregon Department of Energy!)
It’s 2025 and you know it’s time to act, personally and collectively! For some ideas, we like Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s short list, from her book “What If We Get It Right?” 2024:
Some good news & national fame for 350 Eugene - In the Microgrid Resources Coalition (MRC) Newsletter under Oregon: The MRC continues building upon its successful work with the State Legislature and the Oregon Department of Energy to create a County Energy Resilience Grant Program that will fund the planning of microgrid and resiliency projects in local communities in Oregon. In collaboration with our local coalition partners like Sustainable Northwest, Community Renewable Energy Association, 350 Eugene, and other key stakeholders, the MRC is preparing to engage in the 2025 Legislative Session and advocate for policy proposals that will advance microgrid and community energy project development across the state of Oregon.
(Note: Big thanks to our awesome local Policy Team’s efforts and their innovative work on the Eugene Airport’s Solar Project / grant from Oregon Department of Energy!)
It’s 2025 and you know it’s time to act, personally and collectively! For some ideas, we like Ayana Elizabeth Johnson’s short list, from her book “What If We Get It Right?” 2024:
- JOIN SOMETHING. (Move from “me” to “we.”)
- FIND YOUR PEOPLE. (...and lean into possibilities together.)
- BE A PROBLEM SOLVER. (Creative solutions!)
- CHOOSE YOUR BATTLES. (Do your best and don’t worry about the rest.)
- NOURISH JOY. (Don’t take yourself too seriously; avoid burnout.)
- LOVE NATURE. (There is still much grace and beauty.)
The momentum is still building and we’re not backing down.
The vast majority of people want to drastically step up efforts to confront the threat of climate-breakdown. But governments don’t act with the urgency that the accelerating crisis demands!
We can change that. We know there are daunting difficulties ahead, and it just got harder, but ACT WE MUST! Climate change is HERE and we won’t turn away from our obligation to secure a stable-climate future.
Show-up, write emails, protest, comment & carpool to Salem!
LOCAL
City of Eugene Climate Progress - Long on Talk… Short on Action
IMPORTANT WORK SESSIONS TOMORROW!
The Sustainability Office staff just finished an extended, robust public engagement process concerning potential building decarbonization strategies. They, along with the Climate & Sustainability Revenue Advisors (to pay for the strategies), will be presenting their recommendations at two work sessions tomorrow. (Note the Climate Revenue work session was previously scheduled for 12/11, but has been added to the 12/9 Decarbonization work session.)
Will councilors act once they have the facts? Let’s watch and see!
Where & When: Monday, December 9th at 5:30 pm at City Hall, 500 E 4th Street.
JOIN US! We’ll be there tomorrow evening at 5:30 pm! (You also can tune-in remotely with this link, if you prefer.)
Please note: Only Monday evening work sessions may be attended in-person.
Holiday Market Street Messaging Fun
Hit the streets to educate & inspire holiday shoppers about climate!
Saturday, Dec. 14th - Join us to display Climate Action and Climate Justice banners & signs. It’s a great time to visit with other climate-concerned people and engage the public with our message. Stand next to or hold our signs or banners and wave at our fellow citizens who are driving, biking and walking by.
Bring your own Climate Action signs, if you’d like. Bring a lawn chair if you like to sit down.
Where & When: W. 13th Ave next to the Fairgrounds and Holiday Market, near Monroe St. (Meet at the corner of 13th & Monroe just before 1:30, or look for the signs and banners along 13th Ave west of Monroe if you arrive later.)
The vast majority of people want to drastically step up efforts to confront the threat of climate-breakdown. But governments don’t act with the urgency that the accelerating crisis demands!
We can change that. We know there are daunting difficulties ahead, and it just got harder, but ACT WE MUST! Climate change is HERE and we won’t turn away from our obligation to secure a stable-climate future.
Show-up, write emails, protest, comment & carpool to Salem!
LOCAL
City of Eugene Climate Progress - Long on Talk… Short on Action
IMPORTANT WORK SESSIONS TOMORROW!
The Sustainability Office staff just finished an extended, robust public engagement process concerning potential building decarbonization strategies. They, along with the Climate & Sustainability Revenue Advisors (to pay for the strategies), will be presenting their recommendations at two work sessions tomorrow. (Note the Climate Revenue work session was previously scheduled for 12/11, but has been added to the 12/9 Decarbonization work session.)
Will councilors act once they have the facts? Let’s watch and see!
Where & When: Monday, December 9th at 5:30 pm at City Hall, 500 E 4th Street.
JOIN US! We’ll be there tomorrow evening at 5:30 pm! (You also can tune-in remotely with this link, if you prefer.)
Please note: Only Monday evening work sessions may be attended in-person.
Holiday Market Street Messaging Fun
Hit the streets to educate & inspire holiday shoppers about climate!
Saturday, Dec. 14th - Join us to display Climate Action and Climate Justice banners & signs. It’s a great time to visit with other climate-concerned people and engage the public with our message. Stand next to or hold our signs or banners and wave at our fellow citizens who are driving, biking and walking by.
Bring your own Climate Action signs, if you’d like. Bring a lawn chair if you like to sit down.
Where & When: W. 13th Ave next to the Fairgrounds and Holiday Market, near Monroe St. (Meet at the corner of 13th & Monroe just before 1:30, or look for the signs and banners along 13th Ave west of Monroe if you arrive later.)
Support Health & Safety in West Eugene!
Oppose the USD Eugene Clean Fuels transloading facility
in the Trainsong neighborhood!
The City of Eugene is accepting written testimony regarding the Eugene Clean Fuels Zone Verification application during a 14-day period from December 3, 2024 through 5:00 p.m. on December 17, 2024. Please send an email to [email protected], urging the city to disapprove their application. More info here. A very brief email does the trick. They count each one on all issues!
STATE
We need strong state policy on Climate!
Come to Salem to make it happen!
Oppose the USD Eugene Clean Fuels transloading facility
in the Trainsong neighborhood!
The City of Eugene is accepting written testimony regarding the Eugene Clean Fuels Zone Verification application during a 14-day period from December 3, 2024 through 5:00 p.m. on December 17, 2024. Please send an email to [email protected], urging the city to disapprove their application. More info here. A very brief email does the trick. They count each one on all issues!
STATE
We need strong state policy on Climate!
Come to Salem to make it happen!
LOBBY DAY - Wednesday, Dec. 11th (8:00 am to 4:00 pm) at the capitol in Salem.
The Oregon Coalition for an Environmental Rights Amendment (OCERA) represents the most effective, efficient and meaningful way to bring balanced, systemic change to how Oregon manages our environment, and emphasizes safety and health, especially for our children and future generations.
350 Eugene is organizing a carpool to attend lobby day and meet with our representatives, leaving Wednesday morning at 7:15 am. If you would like to join in, contact Deb at [email protected].
In Salem we’ll meet up at the First Presbyterian Church, 770 Chemeketa Street NE, around 8:00 am for an orientation and coffee / tea. (There’s free parking in the church lot.)
Come in person or meet virtually with your representative. Register to participate in advance here. You’ll find all the relevant information in the sign-up form.
Celebrate some good news: Oregon's Climate Protection Program has officially been restored, despite big polluters spreading misinformation to drown out your voices.
With your help, we sent a strong message: We will NOT let big oil and gas companies operate business as usual. Thank you!
The Oregon Coalition for an Environmental Rights Amendment (OCERA) represents the most effective, efficient and meaningful way to bring balanced, systemic change to how Oregon manages our environment, and emphasizes safety and health, especially for our children and future generations.
350 Eugene is organizing a carpool to attend lobby day and meet with our representatives, leaving Wednesday morning at 7:15 am. If you would like to join in, contact Deb at [email protected].
In Salem we’ll meet up at the First Presbyterian Church, 770 Chemeketa Street NE, around 8:00 am for an orientation and coffee / tea. (There’s free parking in the church lot.)
Come in person or meet virtually with your representative. Register to participate in advance here. You’ll find all the relevant information in the sign-up form.
Celebrate some good news: Oregon's Climate Protection Program has officially been restored, despite big polluters spreading misinformation to drown out your voices.
With your help, we sent a strong message: We will NOT let big oil and gas companies operate business as usual. Thank you!
Divest Oregon and the Bill Proposed in the 2025 Oregon Legislature
This amazing campaign keeps racking up wins! Learn more here.
FEDERAL
Environment Town Hall
Thursday, December 19th at 11:30 - Oregon League of Conservation Voters is hosting a Virtual Town Hall on the Environment with Senator Ron Wyden.
As we prepare for the newly elected president and Congress to take office, let’s join this call to learn directly from Senator Wyden about the ongoing fight for climate action and environmental protections in D.C. Register here.
Fracked Gas Resistance - GTN XPress Update
The Stop NW Gas Expansion Coalition is a grassroots alliance of public health, faith, climate justice, and local groups from across Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. We are fighting back against the unnecessary and rapid expansion of fracked methane gas and fossil fuels across our region.
While the GTN Xpress project has been approved by the federal government – the fight to stop it continues in the courts.
Recently a Politico report exposed the fact that pipeline inspectors have found the 63 year old pipes to be corroded and damaged. We can’t let weak federal pipeline rules put “profit over safety!”
The fight is far from over! Stay tuned.
Forest Defense is Climate Defense
We are still reeling from rumors of reversing hard fought (and won) battles to preserve and protect our national forests and public lands.
With all national forest plans now under review, the signs are that timber production will dramatically scale up. The U.S. Forest Service plans to redefine what is considered “mature” and “old-growth” to weaken protections and ramp up logging in the older public forests that absorb climate pollution, filter drinking water, provide needed habitat to imperiled fish and wildlife, and increase Cascadia’s resilience to wildfire.
National and regional orgs are pulling together a short list of mature & old-growth logging projects to re-elevate with the Forest Service with the hope that some or all of them could be canceled before the next administration.
Meanwhile, we in Cascadia are in a particularly critical time. In our region, the Northwest Forest Plan (adopted in 1994), which was an historic win for endangered species and stopped the worst of old growth logging, has just entered its 120-day public comment phase, ending March 17, 2025.
Stay tuned for a BIG PUSH to submit massive comments to stave off the worst for our forests - a vital natural climate solution. The fight is on.
NEARBY… In the beautiful Umpqua Watershed… You can help stop the Bureau of Land Management’s latest plan to log over 1,000 acres of resilient old growth forest habitat west of Yoncalla in the Blue & Gold Project. Send an email using this tool (quick & easy) to Biden and our U.S. Senators today to tell them we need our mature and old growth forests in the face of climate change and the biodiversity crisis! Thank you.
FEDERAL
Environment Town Hall
Thursday, December 19th at 11:30 - Oregon League of Conservation Voters is hosting a Virtual Town Hall on the Environment with Senator Ron Wyden.
As we prepare for the newly elected president and Congress to take office, let’s join this call to learn directly from Senator Wyden about the ongoing fight for climate action and environmental protections in D.C. Register here.
Fracked Gas Resistance - GTN XPress Update
The Stop NW Gas Expansion Coalition is a grassroots alliance of public health, faith, climate justice, and local groups from across Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. We are fighting back against the unnecessary and rapid expansion of fracked methane gas and fossil fuels across our region.
While the GTN Xpress project has been approved by the federal government – the fight to stop it continues in the courts.
Recently a Politico report exposed the fact that pipeline inspectors have found the 63 year old pipes to be corroded and damaged. We can’t let weak federal pipeline rules put “profit over safety!”
The fight is far from over! Stay tuned.
Forest Defense is Climate Defense
We are still reeling from rumors of reversing hard fought (and won) battles to preserve and protect our national forests and public lands.
With all national forest plans now under review, the signs are that timber production will dramatically scale up. The U.S. Forest Service plans to redefine what is considered “mature” and “old-growth” to weaken protections and ramp up logging in the older public forests that absorb climate pollution, filter drinking water, provide needed habitat to imperiled fish and wildlife, and increase Cascadia’s resilience to wildfire.
National and regional orgs are pulling together a short list of mature & old-growth logging projects to re-elevate with the Forest Service with the hope that some or all of them could be canceled before the next administration.
Meanwhile, we in Cascadia are in a particularly critical time. In our region, the Northwest Forest Plan (adopted in 1994), which was an historic win for endangered species and stopped the worst of old growth logging, has just entered its 120-day public comment phase, ending March 17, 2025.
Stay tuned for a BIG PUSH to submit massive comments to stave off the worst for our forests - a vital natural climate solution. The fight is on.
NEARBY… In the beautiful Umpqua Watershed… You can help stop the Bureau of Land Management’s latest plan to log over 1,000 acres of resilient old growth forest habitat west of Yoncalla in the Blue & Gold Project. Send an email using this tool (quick & easy) to Biden and our U.S. Senators today to tell them we need our mature and old growth forests in the face of climate change and the biodiversity crisis! Thank you.
Transportation
Folks in the Friendly Neighborhood are organizing to improve access to public transportation. If you are interested in learning more and/or joining this group, Contact Sandy Gill at (541) 357-1837.
Resilience and Regeneration Work Group
Inspiration & Instruction
Film recommendation: At Work in the Ruins (YouTube 9/24/2024; 1 hour 4 minutes) with Dougald Hine.
Dougald Hine is a social thinker, writer and speaker. He co-founded the Dark Mountain Project and has collaborated with scientists, artists and activists to explore how we might live together in these times. His latest book is At Work in the Ruins: Finding Our Place in the Time of Science, Climate Change, Pandemics & All the Other Emergencies (2023).
An Opportunity in Our Community: Climate Cafe - Free Gathering First Tuesday of every month at 7:00 pm at 70 E Howard Ave, Eugene. (Organized by Mike Meyer.)
We’re the Ones We’ve Been Waiting For
With the recent federal election results, it’s now more important than ever to focus on local and state actions to keep building momentum towards a safe and clean energy future. We’re in this for the long haul and there’s solid momentum, which has been boosted by the landmark climate policies of the Biden administration. This will continue regardless of who is in the White House.
Hey! Don’t forget our wins! Even during the last T-administration together we:
Stopped the Jordan Cove LNG terminal and Pacific Connector Pipeline, Saved the Elliott State Forest and Reinstated Oregon’s Climate Protection Plan!
And next time… we’re bringing the puppets!
Folks in the Friendly Neighborhood are organizing to improve access to public transportation. If you are interested in learning more and/or joining this group, Contact Sandy Gill at (541) 357-1837.
Resilience and Regeneration Work Group
Inspiration & Instruction
Film recommendation: At Work in the Ruins (YouTube 9/24/2024; 1 hour 4 minutes) with Dougald Hine.
Dougald Hine is a social thinker, writer and speaker. He co-founded the Dark Mountain Project and has collaborated with scientists, artists and activists to explore how we might live together in these times. His latest book is At Work in the Ruins: Finding Our Place in the Time of Science, Climate Change, Pandemics & All the Other Emergencies (2023).
An Opportunity in Our Community: Climate Cafe - Free Gathering First Tuesday of every month at 7:00 pm at 70 E Howard Ave, Eugene. (Organized by Mike Meyer.)
We’re the Ones We’ve Been Waiting For
With the recent federal election results, it’s now more important than ever to focus on local and state actions to keep building momentum towards a safe and clean energy future. We’re in this for the long haul and there’s solid momentum, which has been boosted by the landmark climate policies of the Biden administration. This will continue regardless of who is in the White House.
Hey! Don’t forget our wins! Even during the last T-administration together we:
Stopped the Jordan Cove LNG terminal and Pacific Connector Pipeline, Saved the Elliott State Forest and Reinstated Oregon’s Climate Protection Plan!
And next time… we’re bringing the puppets!
You are not alone in feeling disoriented with the deepening and dizzying dread of an autocratic society with no environmental or civil guardrails. We got out the vote and now the voters have chosen.
Our vital work remains before us, but our tactics must change. The path forward is uncertain, but this much is clear: We stick together and we persevere, clear-eyed, braver and smarter than ever. We stand on the shoulders of peace and justice warriors, past and present.
TAKE ACTION: There is much we CAN do!
We must focus locally. We must reach out (beyond our comfort zone) and support our talented allies, especially youth and BIPOC. We must more generously fund / resource these efforts with our creativity, time and money. We must support each other in the work to save the planet with the greatest dedication we can muster, and do it with love and joy. Are you in?
Here’s some local work to be part of right now. SHOWING UP IS 99%:
Our vital work remains before us, but our tactics must change. The path forward is uncertain, but this much is clear: We stick together and we persevere, clear-eyed, braver and smarter than ever. We stand on the shoulders of peace and justice warriors, past and present.
TAKE ACTION: There is much we CAN do!
We must focus locally. We must reach out (beyond our comfort zone) and support our talented allies, especially youth and BIPOC. We must more generously fund / resource these efforts with our creativity, time and money. We must support each other in the work to save the planet with the greatest dedication we can muster, and do it with love and joy. Are you in?
Here’s some local work to be part of right now. SHOWING UP IS 99%:
ACTION 1: Attend Eugene City Council Meeting - it sounds boring, but we make it fun!
Monday, November 25th at 7:30 pm at the new City Hall at 500 E 4th Ave. (old EWEB building pictured above).
Since the withdrawal last year of Eugene’s residential electrification ordinance, advocates have been working tirelessly with city staff to implement GHG-reduction strategies in the Climate Action Plan 2.0.
This January we usher in a new Mayor and Ward 1 Councilor, and anticipate greater engagement and progress around climate, as the federal and state IRA funds flow into Oregon, Lane County and Eugene/Springfield. But what we need now is POLITICAL WILL to maintain forward momentum.
That means WE HAVE TO SHOW UP before January. Public comment time at city council is an important way to let the council know we have their back when it comes to enacting strong climate policy going forward.
Our message is this:
Public comment is “in person only.” Sign-up starts at 7:00 pm. You have 2 ½ minutes to make a difference. Join your climate buddies at city council Monday the 25th. Come to speak or join in solidarity with those who do. See you there! (Social time following.)
ACTION 2: Tune-in to the Sustainability Office’s Reports on Climate Progress
Monday, December 9th at 5:30 pm - Work Session: Update on Building Decarbonization
Wednesday, December 11th at noon (12:00 pm) - Work Session: Climate & Sustainability Revenue
Use this link to access and watch the livestream on December 9th & 11th. See how far we’ve come and how far we have to go. Show them we’re concerned and engaged. Get to know the players and who supports (or doesn’t) city climate action. You might be surprised.
(Note: Work sessions can only be viewed on-line and there is no public comment.)
Monday, November 25th at 7:30 pm at the new City Hall at 500 E 4th Ave. (old EWEB building pictured above).
Since the withdrawal last year of Eugene’s residential electrification ordinance, advocates have been working tirelessly with city staff to implement GHG-reduction strategies in the Climate Action Plan 2.0.
This January we usher in a new Mayor and Ward 1 Councilor, and anticipate greater engagement and progress around climate, as the federal and state IRA funds flow into Oregon, Lane County and Eugene/Springfield. But what we need now is POLITICAL WILL to maintain forward momentum.
That means WE HAVE TO SHOW UP before January. Public comment time at city council is an important way to let the council know we have their back when it comes to enacting strong climate policy going forward.
Our message is this:
- Eugene is a climate-leader and our community expects climate action,
- We have not been meeting our greenhouse gas emissions reductions goals (not even close),
- We’ve been buying “offsets” instead (which is not a climate solution),
- We must follow the science and phase out fossil fuels (and their evil stepchild “plastics”) now to stem biodiversity loss and ensure a stable climate future,
- It’s up to local and state governments to provide a safe and healthy environment for their citizens,
- Balance the city budget; pass the fire service fee, then let’s filter every decision through a climate-lens and fund bold climate action for the sake of the next generation,
- Let’s make the polluters pay to repair and protect the places we love,
- It’s an all-hands-on-deck moment and there’s no time to lose, and / or
- Tell your personal climate story.
Public comment is “in person only.” Sign-up starts at 7:00 pm. You have 2 ½ minutes to make a difference. Join your climate buddies at city council Monday the 25th. Come to speak or join in solidarity with those who do. See you there! (Social time following.)
ACTION 2: Tune-in to the Sustainability Office’s Reports on Climate Progress
Monday, December 9th at 5:30 pm - Work Session: Update on Building Decarbonization
Wednesday, December 11th at noon (12:00 pm) - Work Session: Climate & Sustainability Revenue
Use this link to access and watch the livestream on December 9th & 11th. See how far we’ve come and how far we have to go. Show them we’re concerned and engaged. Get to know the players and who supports (or doesn’t) city climate action. You might be surprised.
(Note: Work sessions can only be viewed on-line and there is no public comment.)
ACTION 3: Stand up for Golden Gardens Park in West Eugene!
Thursday, November 21st at noon (12:00 pm) - Virtual Meeting with City & Neighborhood
We need a plan that respects both recreation needs and our environment!
Golden Gardens Park, a beautiful natural place in the Bethel neighborhood, is one of the few places in Eugene where wildlife like herons, bald eagles, and Western Pond Turtles thrive in their natural habitat (located on Jessen Dr., SW of Jerry’s on Highway 99. Map).
Thursday, November 21st at noon (12:00 pm) - Virtual Meeting with City & Neighborhood
We need a plan that respects both recreation needs and our environment!
Golden Gardens Park, a beautiful natural place in the Bethel neighborhood, is one of the few places in Eugene where wildlife like herons, bald eagles, and Western Pond Turtles thrive in their natural habitat (located on Jessen Dr., SW of Jerry’s on Highway 99. Map).
The City of Eugene plans to develop a large sports complex, including 14 sports fields, lighting, parking, and unfortunately, the addition of plastic artificial turf, which would introduce harmful microplastics into the environment, disrupt sensitive ecosystems, and degrade the park’s wildlife habitat. We don’t have to use the fossil fuel industry’s new favorite product, PLASTIC, on our kids’ sports fields!
City staff will discuss the final design for the park, which includes 124 acres of natural area, a trail system, and sports facilities. This is our opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns, and request nature-friendly solutions. And please complete the City Survey. Your voice makes a difference!
Attend the public (virtual) meeting and share your thoughts on this proposal and advocate on behalf of natural, organically managed grass over artificial turf and protections for wildlife habitats.
Virtual Meeting
Thursday, Nov 21, 2024 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. via Zoom: Register here
For more information, here is the Beyond Toxics "Case Against Artificial Turf" info sheet.
ACTION 4: Street Messaging - hit the streets to educate & engage our community on climate!
Join us in December on the streets of Eugene to display signs and banners with a Climate Action and Climate Justice message. It’s a time to visit with other climate concerned people and engage the public with our message. Stand next to or hold our signs or banners and wave at our fellow citizens who are driving, biking and walking by.
When: Friday, December 6 from 1:30-3:00pm
Where: W. 18th Ave just east of the Bi-Mart at 18th & Chambers
Meet at the east corner of the Bi-Mart parking lot just before 1:30 or look for the signs and banners along 18th Ave whenever you arrive after that.
When: Saturday, December 14 from 1:30-3 pm.
Where: W. 13th Ave next to the Fairgrounds and Holiday Market, near Monroe St.
Meet at the corner of 13th & Monroe just before 1:30, or look for the signs and banners along 13th Ave west of Monroe if you arrive later.
In Solidarity, we hope you’ll be with us out on the streets!
ACTION 5: Attend the Weatherization Workshop - A Just Transition Series!
Saturday, November 16th 3 to 4:30 pm
Learn how to make your home cozy & energy-efficient this winter while saving money! This workshop focuses on the needs of BIPOC community members, renters & homeowners in Eugene-Springfield area.
City staff will discuss the final design for the park, which includes 124 acres of natural area, a trail system, and sports facilities. This is our opportunity to ask questions, raise concerns, and request nature-friendly solutions. And please complete the City Survey. Your voice makes a difference!
Attend the public (virtual) meeting and share your thoughts on this proposal and advocate on behalf of natural, organically managed grass over artificial turf and protections for wildlife habitats.
Virtual Meeting
Thursday, Nov 21, 2024 from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. via Zoom: Register here
For more information, here is the Beyond Toxics "Case Against Artificial Turf" info sheet.
ACTION 4: Street Messaging - hit the streets to educate & engage our community on climate!
Join us in December on the streets of Eugene to display signs and banners with a Climate Action and Climate Justice message. It’s a time to visit with other climate concerned people and engage the public with our message. Stand next to or hold our signs or banners and wave at our fellow citizens who are driving, biking and walking by.
- Bring your own Climate Action signs, if you’d like.
- Bring a lawn chair if you like to sit down.
When: Friday, December 6 from 1:30-3:00pm
Where: W. 18th Ave just east of the Bi-Mart at 18th & Chambers
Meet at the east corner of the Bi-Mart parking lot just before 1:30 or look for the signs and banners along 18th Ave whenever you arrive after that.
When: Saturday, December 14 from 1:30-3 pm.
Where: W. 13th Ave next to the Fairgrounds and Holiday Market, near Monroe St.
Meet at the corner of 13th & Monroe just before 1:30, or look for the signs and banners along 13th Ave west of Monroe if you arrive later.
In Solidarity, we hope you’ll be with us out on the streets!
ACTION 5: Attend the Weatherization Workshop - A Just Transition Series!
Saturday, November 16th 3 to 4:30 pm
Learn how to make your home cozy & energy-efficient this winter while saving money! This workshop focuses on the needs of BIPOC community members, renters & homeowners in Eugene-Springfield area.
🛠️ FREE supplies + DIY demos
🍕 Free pizza & refreshments
💰 $50 stipend for participants
Register here.
ACTION 6: Read local UO Sophomore and leader of the Climate Justice League, Jack Dodson’s, latest critique of the UO administration’s failure to honestly engage in the divestment issue in the Emerald. We’re working side-by-side with strong, young climate leaders!
ACTION 7: Attend World Toilet Day!
Tuesday, November 19th at 6:00 pm at Whirled Pies on 8th & Charnelton in Eugene
Meet your peeps and learn about a more sustainable future!
🍕 Free pizza & refreshments
💰 $50 stipend for participants
Register here.
ACTION 6: Read local UO Sophomore and leader of the Climate Justice League, Jack Dodson’s, latest critique of the UO administration’s failure to honestly engage in the divestment issue in the Emerald. We’re working side-by-side with strong, young climate leaders!
ACTION 7: Attend World Toilet Day!
Tuesday, November 19th at 6:00 pm at Whirled Pies on 8th & Charnelton in Eugene
Meet your peeps and learn about a more sustainable future!
Inspiration
(Quick Watch & Listen)
WATCH: There’s a brand new story about what’s happening with our forests. Wildfires… it’s a brand new world! What do the most destructive fires have in common?
Here’s a short video (12 mins) from PBS’s “Weathered Fast Fires” that will shock you. The title of this short is: Is this type of fire impossible to stop? Check it out!
LISTEN: The Coast Range Association is a scrappy organization on the north central coast that advocates for protecting Oregon communities, oceans and forests. It regularly hosts a very local and (often spectacular) podcast called Coast Range Radio.
We highly recommend a recent program, State of the Climate Emergency 2024: State of the Climate Report, with co-author Dr. Jillian Gregg (Principal Investigator, Executive Director of Terrestrial Ecosystems Research Associates (TERA) in Corvallis).
In this short interview, Dr. Gregg talks about the report's terrifying findings and how we can break through the climate action gridlock. (Apple podcast link and Spotify link - 38 mins.)
WATCH: There’s a brand new story about what’s happening with our forests. Wildfires… it’s a brand new world! What do the most destructive fires have in common?
Here’s a short video (12 mins) from PBS’s “Weathered Fast Fires” that will shock you. The title of this short is: Is this type of fire impossible to stop? Check it out!
LISTEN: The Coast Range Association is a scrappy organization on the north central coast that advocates for protecting Oregon communities, oceans and forests. It regularly hosts a very local and (often spectacular) podcast called Coast Range Radio.
We highly recommend a recent program, State of the Climate Emergency 2024: State of the Climate Report, with co-author Dr. Jillian Gregg (Principal Investigator, Executive Director of Terrestrial Ecosystems Research Associates (TERA) in Corvallis).
In this short interview, Dr. Gregg talks about the report's terrifying findings and how we can break through the climate action gridlock. (Apple podcast link and Spotify link - 38 mins.)
Good News - We Helped Do This
Oregon Protects Elliott State Research Forest As a Carbon Reserve - Savor the Moment
In October, Oregon adopted a new forest management plan for the Elliott State Research Forest—one of the largest (and newest) research forests in the U.S. This plan boosts protections for salmon and other at-risk species, and also makes the ENTIRE 83,000-acre forest a carbon reserve, prioritizing its value in storing harmful greenhouse gasses over timber harvest.
“This is a precedent-setting moment for Oregon,” says Wild Salmon Center Oregon Policy Manager Michael Lang. “Governor Kotek and the Oregon Land Board deserve huge thanks for their leadership. This visionary plan can serve as a model for other public forests in Oregon.
In October, Oregon adopted a new forest management plan for the Elliott State Research Forest—one of the largest (and newest) research forests in the U.S. This plan boosts protections for salmon and other at-risk species, and also makes the ENTIRE 83,000-acre forest a carbon reserve, prioritizing its value in storing harmful greenhouse gasses over timber harvest.
“This is a precedent-setting moment for Oregon,” says Wild Salmon Center Oregon Policy Manager Michael Lang. “Governor Kotek and the Oregon Land Board deserve huge thanks for their leadership. This visionary plan can serve as a model for other public forests in Oregon.
We were there with our voices, our art, our indomitable spirit! Together, we win!
It is time to hold each other close with grace and empathy. It is time to do that “extra thing” you were waiting to do, like subscribe to that Substack newsletter that helps you cope, send some money to that new organization with young leaders. It’s time to cross over and lend support to the labor movement or join in re-indigenizing the world. It’s time to build bonds of love and connection for the long haul in these uncertain times. Let’s be fierce.
It is time to hold each other close with grace and empathy. It is time to do that “extra thing” you were waiting to do, like subscribe to that Substack newsletter that helps you cope, send some money to that new organization with young leaders. It’s time to cross over and lend support to the labor movement or join in re-indigenizing the world. It’s time to build bonds of love and connection for the long haul in these uncertain times. Let’s be fierce.
As the Reverend Doctor Martin Luther King said, “Now let us begin. Now let us rededicate ourselves to the long and bitter - but beautiful - struggle for a new world.”