Smith will seek more water funding

By Terry Murry on Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories

SALEM – Rep. Greg Smith (R-Heppner) says he’s disappointed that Gov. Tina Kotek’s proposed budget didn’t include addressing drought by expanding water infrastructure, especially in the Columbia Basin.

“We’re not keeping up with the states of Washington, Idaho, or Montana as it relates to drought relief and making sure our farmers have the water they need,” he said.

Smith also said the governor didn’t include funding that would help address nitrates in the soil, which is a serious problem in Morrow and western Umatilla County.

“Water is life out where we live,” he said. “At the end of the day, Portland’s going to want to eat and without us it’s going to be pretty hard to do that.”

Smith plans to raise the issues with Kotek personally.

“Gov. Kotek and I have worked together for a number of years,” he said. “I feel comfortable raising these issues with her.”