Google Data Center in the Dalles. Photo: Tony Webster

There's a bill in Congress (HR 655) that would give away part of Mt Hood National Forest so Big Tech data centers can take more water, and we need your help to stop it!

HR 655 would transfer 150 acres of the National Forest to the city of the The Dalles, allowing the city to expand a reservoir and pull more water out of the Dog River without USFS oversight. Why? To feed the skyrocketing water demands of Google data centers in The Dalles, which already use one third of the city's water supply. This bill sets a dangerous precedent; not only for Mt Hood National Forest but also for public lands everywhere. If passed, HR 655 would allow The Dalles to sidestep robutst environmental reviews that would otherwise be required on federal public lands. 

If HR 655 passes, it would negatively impact Mt. Hood's water supply, wildlife, and forests. Help us stop it. On July 15th, this bill had a hearing with the Senate Subcommittee on Public Lands, Forests, and Mining. According to the Committee website, we have two weeks following a hearing to comment. 

The  public comment period for this bill ends Wednesday, July 29th. We NEED YOU to submit written testimony opposing HR 655. Our allies at Bark have made it easy; simply click on the button below to add your name and edits to a pre-written letter template.