Dear Colonel Caswell,
I am writing to express my support for the proposed NXTClean Fuels facility at Port Westward
in Columbia County, Oregon. This $3 billion private investment represents a significant
opportunity for rural Oregon, both economically and environmentally, and has undergone
rigorous review and permitting at the state and county levels.
NXTClean Fuels has worked closely with state agencies and local communities to ensure the
project meets, and in many cases exceeds, Oregon’s environmental protection standards. The
facility has received a Removal-Fill Permit from the Oregon Department of State Lands and a
401 Water Quality Certification from the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. It also
underwent a comprehensive Cleaner Air Oregon review, which confirmed that local communities
will not be adversely impacted by construction or operation. Public engagement has been robust,
and the company has demonstrated a strong commitment to transparency and responsiveness.
The project is expected to generate over 3,000 union construction jobs and 240 permanent
positions, with thousands more indirect jobs across the region. It will also contribute more than
$45 million annually in tax revenue to the State of Oregon and Columbia County, and over $5.5
million in fees to the Port of Columbia County. These are meaningful impacts for our rural
communities.
From an environmental standpoint, NXTClean Fuels will produce Renewable Diesel and
Sustainable Aviation Fuel, displacing up to 750 million gallons of fossil fuels annually and
reducing over 7 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions. The facility’s ultra-low carbon
intensity fuels, derived from recycled organic feedstocks, align with Oregon’s climate goals and
offer immediate air quality benefits.
Additionally, the company has committed to restoring over 470 acres of adjacent land into
vibrant wetlands. This will be one of the largest private restoration efforts along the Columbia
River. The initiative will enhance habitat, improve water quality, and provide flood mitigation
benefits.
Given the extensive state-level vetting and the broad coalition of support from labor
organizations, environmental leaders, local governments, and business groups, I respectfully urge
the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to give full and timely consideration to this project. Oregon
stands ready to support the federal review process and collaborate to ensure that this project
moves forward responsibly and efficiently.
Thank you for your attention to this important matter.
Sincerely,
Governor Tina Kotek
254 STATE CAPITOL, SALEM OR 97301-4047 (503) 378-4582 FAX (503) 378-8970
WWW.GOVERNOR.OREGON.GOV
