Demand for natural gas has been increasing in Oregon as its population grows and businesses and utilities increase their need for energy. Most natural gas in Oregon currently comes from Canada and the Rocky Mountain states, but those sources are being partially redirected. If current trends continue, Oregon will need new supply to keep up with new demand. Establishing liquid natural gas facilities in Oregon, importing LNG from overseas and building new pipelines have been proposed as solutions to this issue. But is LNG the most cost-effective and sustainable answer?

On July 18, City Club will host two speakers who will discuss what needs to be considered when reviewing the LNG option. Joe Desmond, senior VP of external affairs for NorthernStar Natural Gas, will report on the status of an LNG import terminal proposed for Bradwood, Oregon while explaining how LNG can meet Oregon’s energy needs, do so safely and bring economic benefits to the state. Brent Foster, executive director for Columbia Riverkeeper, will suggest that increasing our reliance on foreign fossil fuel such as LNG will divert investments in renewable energy, increased efficiency and conservation.

Prior to joining NorthernStar, in 2006 Joe Desmond served as Chairman of the California Energy Commission and Under Secretary for Energy Affairs in the California Resources Agency. Besides serving as executive director for Columbia Riverkeeper, a conservation group that works to protect and restore the Columbia River, Brent Foster has worked as an environmental attorney focusing on citizen enforcement of the federal Clean Water Act and related state laws.

The discussion will be moderated by Tony Lystra, reporter for The Daily News in Longview, Washington.

For more information: www.pdxcityclub.org

For schedules on Friday Forums broadcast on OPB visit: www.opb.org