Oregon DEQ rejects NEXT Renewable’s water quality permit for second time

In Oregon, on September 6, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) denied NEXT Renewables LLC’s (NEXT) application for a Clean Water Act section 401 water quality permit. NEXT sought the permit as part of a plan to build a so-called “renewable” diesel refinery near Clatskanie, OR. 

DEQ denied the permit because NEXT was unable to answer basic questions about the proposed diesel refinery and its effects on water quality. This is actually the second time DEQ has denied NEXT’s water quality permit application. DEQ denied NEXT’s first application in September 2021, also citing NEXT’s failure to provide important details about the proposed refinery and its potential water pollution. 

DEQ denied the NEXT’s application “without prejudice,” meaning NEXT could apply a third time. That process could take another year to complete. 

Oregon’s Land Use Board of Appeals will soon determine whether NEXT can build a 400-car railyard in a sensitive wetland and agricultural area. A decision is expected on or before October 7, 2022.