Rally to Protect Drinking Water Calls for Community Action in Rockaway Beach, Oregon

Residents of Rockaway Beach, Oregon, are rallying together to address urgent concerns about their local water supply. The North Coast Communities for Watershed Protection (NCCWP) has organized a “Rally to Protect Drinking Water and Foster Community Engagement,” scheduled for Thursday, April 25 at 6:30 pm. This meeting will take place at St. Mary-by-the-Sea Parish Hall, located at 275 S. Pacific St.

The purpose of the Rally? The protection of Jetty Creek, a vital water source for the community, which, like many other watersheds along the Oregon Coast, is suffering from environmental degradation. Industrial forestry practices such as clearcutting as well as pesticide spraying and changes to the seasonal rainfall have exacerbated water shortages during summer months leaving this watershed imperiled.

This grassroots initiative is open to all community members, with those who consume water from Jetty Creek encouraged to attend. NCCWP is advocating for immediate cessation of logging and pesticide spraying in drinking water watersheds, arguing that safe drinking water and clean air are essential public trust resources.

The meeting aims to ignite community engagement and action towards safeguarding drinking water sources. It will also provide an educational platform for residents to learn more about the challenges facing their local watersheds and explore potential solutions. For those unable to attend in person, a Zoom option will be available, ensuring broader community participation.

NCCWP encourages respectful dialogue and a sharing of ideas, underscoring the importance of community involvement in environmental stewardship. Future meetings are planned for the last Thursday of each month, reinforcing the ongoing commitment to these critical environmental issues.

This rally represents a pivotal moment for the Rockaway Beach community as they come together to address and advocate for the long-term health and safety of their natural resources. Residents with questions or those who wish to become more involved can reach out via email at rockawaycitizen.water@gmail.com