Salem-News.com Environment articles

Global Warming is Real and Could Become Irreversible

Earth is noticeably hotter, the weather stormier and more extreme.

(SAN FRANCISCO, Calif.) - Empirical evidence shows that global warming is real and is largely caused by man. This is not a theory; it is a fact. If someone tells you that this is not true, then they are lying or stupid or stand to make lots of money by ignoring it. By denying global warming, you have an excuse to do little or nothing about it.

Global warming is no longer about science; it is now a political, economic, social debate. In other words, what do we do about global warming?

Star Party Aug 4 at Silver Falls State Park

View the starry skies from one of the darkest places in the Willamette Valley

(SILVER FALLS, Ore.) - Moons, planets and other celestial wonders will be on display during the Silver Falls State Park Star Party 9 p.m. to midnight Aug. 4.

Telescopes and other stargazing equipment will be provided by Night Sky 45, a local astronomy club. Visitors can also enjoy a special astronomy presentation at 10 p.m.

Campfires and Open Flames Prohibited in Oregon State Parks

The fire ban is expected to last at least one week.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is prohibiting all campfires and open flames in all state park properties effective 10 a.m. today. The ban is in response to Gov. Brown’s declaration of a fire emergency.

The campfire and open flame ban includes campgrounds, day-use areas, and all areas of the Ocean Shore and beaches managed by OPRD.

Lincoln City Passes Resolution Against Offshore Drilling

City Council approves resolution, joining growing local opposition to federal drilling proposal

(LINCOLN CITY, Ore..) - Last night, the Lincoln City Council joined a growing movement of Oregon leaders taking a stand against a federal offshore drilling proposal that would open the Pacific coast to new oil and gas leasing for the first time since 1984.

The proposal released in January would open 90 percent of US waters to drilling, including all of Oregon’s coast. It has met widespread opposition in Oregon.

Oregon State Capitol State Park Fountain to Remain Off

Kids will have to do without the fountain fun for now.

(SALEM, Ore.) - The Wall of Water fountain bordering Court Street across from the main capitol entrance will remain off due to the ongoing drinking water advisory set by city and state officials.

The fountain usually operates between Memorial Day and Labor Day when the forecast temperature is above 80 degrees.

Final Defendant Sentenced for Armed Takeover of Malheur National Wildlife Refuge

The Bundys and several dozen armed followers seized the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge near Burns, Oregon and prevented federal officials from performing their duties by force, threats, and intimidation.

(PORTLAND, Ore.) - The 41-day armed occupation of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge began in January 2016.

Eleven defendants pleaded guilty to felony conspiracy to impede officers of the U.S. Four other defendants were convicted of felonies by a federal jury in a trial ending in March 2017.

Salem Drinking Water Advisory Continues for Two Weeks

Though water is "safe for most", drinking water filling stations are open.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Test results received this morning from water samples taken on Saturday, June 9, indicate the presence of cyanotoxins in the water distribution system is below EPA advisory levels for vulnerable populations.

As a precautionary measure, the City of Salem extended the drinking water advisory for at least two more weeks to ensure safe drinking water for our residents and water customers.

10th Annual Otter Rock and Roll is June 23rd

This youth surf contest is for ages 18 and under only; open to surfers of all skill levels.

(NEWPORT, Ore.) - In celebration of International Surfing Day, the Surfrider Foundation’s Newport, Siuslaw and Portland Chapters have announced they will be hosting the 10th annual Otter Rock n Roll Youth Surf and Beach Cleanup Challenge.

Observed globally, International Surfing Day celebrates the sport of surfing and helps raise awareness about issues facing our ocean, waves and beaches.

Oregon`s Capitol City Issues Another Toxic Water Advisory

As was true last week, the school district will not make bottled water available to kids in school ages 6-18.

(SALEM, Ore.) - The water "advisory" is back on for Salem and areas around Salem.

Results from water quality samples received Wednesday morning (June 6, 2018) indicate that cyanotoxins are present in the City of Salem’s water distribution system at levels that exceed Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines for children and vulnerable populations.

Water Stations To Open in Salem and Turner

There are several sites to fill up your containers with good water.

(SALEM, Ore.) - Free drinking water will be available at multiple locations throughout Marion and Polk counties tonight. The water distribution operation is a cooperative effort between Marion County, City of Salem, and the Oregon Military Department.

Once they begin, the sites will operate around the clock until further notice. All bulk water distribution locations are pull-through. Residents must bring their own containers. There is a 5 gallon limit per vehicle.