Oregon officials complete $1.3M dredge removal amid environmental concerns

The House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water convened on April 16, 2025, to discuss significant environmental initiatives, particularly focusing on the removal of hazardous vessels from Oregon's waterways.

The meeting began with a presentation on the recently completed project involving the retired dredge, the Herb Anderson. This vessel, which had been used to clear debris following the Mount Saint Helens eruption, was removed from the Columbia River in December at a cost of approximately $1.3 million. The project was deemed a high priority due to the environmental risks posed by the dredge, which was found to be covered in peeling lead paint and concerning levels of PCBs, classified as some of the most toxic chemicals by the EPA. The successful dismantling and disposal of the dredge were highlighted as a significant achievement for the Department of State Lands (DSL).

Following this, the committee discussed another successful removal effort involving nine sunken boats, which had long been a concern for the local community. The DSL collaborated with the Oregon State Marine Board and the Columbia County Sheriff's Office to address this issue, showcasing the effectiveness of legislative support in facilitating environmental cleanup. The DSL emphasized the importance of proactive measures to prevent future hazardous vessel situations, aiming to support owners in the proper disposal of their boats.

The discussion then shifted to Senate Bill 795, which proposes revisions to current statutes governing the seizure and disposal of abandoned vessels. The bill aims to clarify definitions and streamline the process for handling severely deteriorated boats, categorizing them as marine debris rather than vessels. This change would allow for more efficient disposal and reduce the notification time required before a vessel can be removed. The bill also seeks to address ambiguities regarding the handling of contents within these vessels.

Committee members raised questions about the potential for the state to sell any valuables found within abandoned vessels to offset disposal costs. The DSL confirmed that current statutes allow for this, which could help mitigate financial burdens associated with vessel removal.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue addressing the challenges posed by abandoned and hazardous vessels in Oregon's waterways, with a focus on legislative support and community engagement to foster a cleaner and safer environment.