NOAA Plans Job Cuts: What It Means for Workers in Oregon and Washington

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is facing job cuts as part of the ongoing reductions in the federal workforce. This decision will impact research and marine operations at its Marine Operations Center in Newport, Oregon. This center supports NOAA’s Pacific fleet and affects the local community significantly.

There are over 300 federal workers in Lincoln County, but it’s unclear how many are part of NOAA. Paula Miranda, who leads the Port of Newport, confirmed that layoffs have taken place there, but she does not know how extensive they are.

NOAA plays a crucial role in providing weather forecasts and data through the National Weather Service. However, a spokesperson mentioned they wouldn’t comment on personnel matters, stating that the agency remains committed to its mission of public safety through weather warnings and information.

In addition to the Marine Operations Center, NOAA’s National Marine Fisheries Service manages vital fish populations like salmon and steelhead. The impact of the job cuts is not only felt in Newport; it could also extend to NOAA offices across Oregon, including Portland, Roseburg, and La Grande, although current staff numbers there remain uncertain.

NOAA also collaborates with Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center in Newport, which undertakes important research. An analysis suggested that a complete NOAA withdrawal from Newport could lead to a loss of about 620 jobs, including those from businesses that rely on NOAA’s activities.

Robert Cowen, the center’s director, expressed concern over the economic implications of the job cuts and noted that NOAA researchers have specialized skills that impact various industries. He emphasized the importance of sustainable fisheries and the expertise needed for forecasting changes in marine conditions.

Many NOAA employees were taken by surprise by the job losses, with one expressing deep disappointment over the lack of communication regarding who has been affected. This individual pointed out that the firings disrupt not only careers but also personal lives, as employees are cut off from their work accounts immediately after being let go.

State Rep. David Gomberg highlighted the essential nature of NOAA’s work, particularly in monitoring ocean conditions that impact communities across Oregon. He recognized the importance of ongoing research in understanding climate-related challenges, such as ocean warming and wildfires, especially for those living in fire-prone areas.

Nationwide, approximately 880 NOAA employees have lost their positions. Some political leaders argue that these cuts threaten public safety by undermining weather forecasting capabilities, which are crucial for disaster preparedness and response. Concerns about the impact of job cuts extend to maritime commerce and fisheries that support millions of jobs.

The cuts align with recommendations from Project 2025, developed by a conservative think tank. This blueprint suggests privatizing weather forecasts and restructuring NOAA, raising alarms about how such changes could affect public access to vital meteorological information.

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