Are Our Communities Prepared for the Next Flood? A Crucial Webinar and More Local Events You Can’t Miss
As extreme weather events like atmospheric rivers become increasingly common, the question of how we manage floodplains is more critical than ever. But here’s where it gets controversial: should communities adopt stricter floodplain regulations, even if it means limiting development? This debate is at the heart of an upcoming webinar that promises to spark conversation and action.
On Tuesday, December 16, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., the Oregon Shores Conservation Coalition and the Northwest Environmental Defense Center will host a free webinar titled “Beyond the High Water Mark: A Call for Floodplain Management Reform to Ensure Compliance with Federal Law and Bolster Community Resilience to Flooding and Climate Change.” This isn’t just another online event—it’s a deep dive into the legal and environmental challenges Oregon faces in the wake of the landmark case Northwest Environmental Defense Center et al. v. Federal Emergency Management Agency. Register now at https://oregonshores.org/?post_type=event&p=51628&preview=true to secure your spot.
And this is the part most people miss: The webinar will explore why updating floodplain management codes isn’t just about following federal law—it’s about protecting habitats and building communities that can withstand the growing threat of flooding. Led by Mary Stites, Staff Attorney at the Northwest Environmental Defense Center, the discussion will blend legal insights with grassroots perspectives, offering a comprehensive look at the opportunities and challenges ahead. Mary’s background in enforcing the Clean Water Act, protecting endangered species, and preventing harmful industrial activities makes her uniquely qualified to lead this conversation.
But that’s not all—local engagement is heating up with several key events on the horizon. The North Coast Communities for Watershed Protection (NCCWP) Astoria Chapter is holding its monthly meeting on Wednesday, December 17, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Necessary Magic, 333 10th Street in Astoria. Mark your calendars for Tuesday, January 13, when the chapter will discuss talking points for the Oregon Department of Forestry’s Forest Management Plan (FMP) at KALA. Chili and beverages will be available for purchase, and virtual attendance is an option. A week later, on Tuesday, January 20, the ODF will hold an in-person meeting regarding the FMP at the Tillamook ODF offices, where public testimony is welcome.
Controversy alert: The “Save Our Wetlands” case, LUBA No. 2025-069 Nedonna Development v. City of Rockaway Beach, is another hot topic. The Rockaway Beach City Council’s decision to reverse approvals for a 28-lot development in Nedonna Beach has sparked a legal battle, with oral arguments streaming live on YouTube on Tuesday, January 13, at 10:45 a.m. Watch here. This case raises important questions about local control, development rights, and environmental preservation—a debate that’s far from settled.
Shifting gears, Beyond Toxics has launched an innovative tool that’s a game-changer for transparency: the Interactive FERNS Pesticide Application Map. This first-of-its-kind resource uses data from the Forestry Electronic Registry Notification System (FERNS) to map pesticide applications on Oregon forestland from 2014-2024. Whether you’re concerned about specific chemicals, application methods, or dates, this tool has you covered. Explore it at https://www.beyondtoxics.org/work/pesticides-and-communities/pesticide-map/. Missed their recent webinar? Catch the recording on YouTube here.
Finally, NCCWP is calling for action. They’re advocating for an end to logging and pesticide use in community drinking water sources and near residential areas. Safe drinking water and clean air aren’t luxuries—they’re fundamental rights. Join the movement at www.healthywatershed.org or follow them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/NCCWATERSHEDPROTECTION.
Thought-provoking question: As we face the dual challenges of climate change and development, how can we balance economic growth with environmental protection? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep this conversation going!
