A commercial jetboat on the upper Rogue River. Photo: Native Fish Society
In recent years, a central focus of NEDC’s litigation efforts has been protecting Pacific Northwest waters from stormwater pollution at industrial facilities. NEDC routinely brings several Clean Water Act “citizen suits” each year against polluting facilities. Over the last two decades, these efforts have resulted in significant upgrades in stormwater treatment systems across the region, and have reduced pollution in sensitive waterways. And importantly, “Supplemental Environmental Project” (“SEP”) payments from these cases have directed millions of dollars in funding to regional nonprofits to improve water quality and restore degraded habitat.
This year, an NEDC stormwater enforcement action is funding efforts to protect the upper Rogue River—an iconic southern Oregon river known for its wild native fish, whitewater rafting, and rugged scenery. The Native Fish Society is using SEP funds from an NEDC settlement agreement to lead a coalition advocating for restrictions on the use of commercial jet boats in the upper Rogue. These boats lead to bank erosion, increased turbidity, and significant impacts to threatened wild salmon and steelhead—not to mention noise and safety issues for other river users. “Thanks to the support from NEDC we have been able to commit significant staff resources to engaging with volunteers and stakeholders directly impacted by current commercial jetboat use of the upper Rogue River,” said NFS’ Executive Director Mark Sherwood. “It’s our collective effort focused on key decision makers that can safeguard critical habitats for native fish and ensure public safety.” NEDC is thrilled to support this important work through our Clean Water Act litigation.