Global Warming Is Reducing Summertime Water Supply in Oregon

Media Contacts
Rikki Seguin

Environment Oregon

PORTLAND — On Tuesday, the U.S. Global Change Research Program published the third National Climate Assessment. The report found that nationally, average U.S. temperature has increased 1.5 degrees since 1895. The study goes on to say that global warming is reducing summertime water supply in Oregon.

Environment Oregon conservation advocate Rikki Seguin issued the following statement in response:

“We already know global warming threatens our future. This report shows how it is harming our communities now.

“This report makes clear what farmers, first responders, and flood insurers have already seen firsthand: Global warming is increasing the likelihood of extreme weather events, contributing to sea level rise, and increasing drought in many regions.

“In June, the Environmental Protection Agency is expected to propose limits on carbon pollution from existing power plants. This is a huge deal – power plants are the largest source of carbon pollution in the county, but face no federal limits on carbon as they do for soot, smog, and other dangerous air pollution.

“This isn’t the only action we need to solve the climate crises. But it’s a big step, and taking one step at a time is the only way to move forward.”