EJ

The fruit that leaves the Columbia Gorge carries more than sweetness. It carries the pressure of long days, thin margins, wildfire smoke, heat, housing stress, family separation, and the quiet fear that one missed paycheck or one injury can unravel a household. The Columbia River Gorge is often described through its beauty. Cliffs, orchards, wind, water, salmon, cherries, pears, apples, vineyards, and small towns all share the same narrow corridor. But a place can be beautifu

The Columbia Gorge region faces a critical moment. As industries evolve and environmental concerns grow, the communities of Klickitat and Skamania counties in Washington, along with Wasco and Hood River counties in Oregon, need a clear path forward. This path must balance economic change with fairness, respect for civil and workers rights, and attention to mental well-being. The framework of a Just Transition offers exactly that—a way to support local people while protecting

Generosity is the spark that ignites lasting change in communities. In the Columbia Gorge, a region known for its natural beauty and close-knit towns, volunteers are at the heart of this transformation. Their dedication not only addresses immediate needs but also inspires others to contribute, creating a ripple effect of goodwill and progress. I want to share how this spirit of giving is reshaping the Columbia Gorge and what it means for nonprofits, health agencies, funders,

The Columbia River Gorge is a place of stunning natural beauty, attracting visitors from across the country. Yet beneath its scenic vistas lies a growing conflict known as the "Paradise Paradox." This paradox describes how the very qualities that make the Gorge a paradise also fuel gentrification and an expanding recreation-industrial complex that threatens the region’s character and long-term sustainability. Despite clear signs of strain, many stakeholders continue to overlo

The Columbia Gorge is facing a crisis that technology alone cannot fix. As climate change accelerates, this unique region is experiencing shifts that threaten its ecosystems, wildlife, and communities. While many look to technology as a quick fix, the reality is more complex. The Gorge’s natural systems depend on balanced resources that are finite, and no amount of data centers or high-tech solutions can replace the careful stewardship these lands need. I want to share why re

Hazel M. Johnson, often called the Mother of the Environmental Justice Movement, dedicated her life to fighting environmental racism and advocating for communities disproportionately affected by pollution and industrial hazards. If she were to speak about environmental justice in the Columbia Gorge today, her message would likely focus on the intersection of environmental protection, community health, and equity. The Columbia Gorge, a region known for its natural beauty and c

Healthy Environment Alliance of Utah (385) 202-5199 (c) (801) 355-5055 (o) Carmen@healutah.org

I’m originally from Uruguay and came to the U.S. for college. This summer, I had the opportunity to work at the U.S. Department of Energy...