Morrow County's Umatilla Chemical Depot Storymap
Information related to the 2023 Transfer of Umatilla Chemical Depot lands to the Columbia Development Authority (CDA)
Introduction:
Welcome to a Umatilla Army Chemical Depot Story Map, a compelling journey through the history, closure, and the visionary redevelopment plan of a site that has played a pivotal role in the nation's defense. Explore the rich tapestry of this depot's evolution, from its World War II origins to its subsequent mission as a chemical weapons storage facility. Learn how it transitioned from safeguarding 12% of the nation's chemical weapons stockpile to its closure and transformation, setting the stage for an inspiring future. In this interactive narrative, we will unravel the fascinating timeline of the Umatilla Army Chemical Depot, examining the challenges it faced during the closure process and the ambitious plans that now shape its destiny. Discover how this once-secretive facility is being reinvented, with a portion slated for military training, another for industrial purposes, and a portion preserved as a thriving wildlife refuge. Join us on this digital odyssey, where history meets renewal, and where the legacy of the Umatilla Army Chemical Depot continues to unfold.
History/Background
1941
The Umatilla Chemical Depot, established in 1941 in preparation for World War II, had a primary mission of storing and maintaining a diverse range of military supplies, spanning from blankets to ammunition. First munitions shipment was received October 27th, 1941.
1944
An explosion occurred during the loading of 500-lb. bombs within an igloo storage facility. At the time of the explosion, there were 264 such bombs present in the facility, highlighting the scale of the operation. Regrettably, the explosion resulted in the tragic loss of six civilian workers, including five men and one woman, underscoring the human toll of the incident. The force of the blast was substantial, with reports of the explosion being heard up to 30 miles away. Additionally, it had the capacity to shatter windows as far as 20 miles from the epicenter, emphasizing the magnitude of the event. Remarkably, the exact cause of the explosion was never conclusively determined. However, the structural design of the igloo played a crucial role in containing the blast. The facility featured steel-reinforced concrete walls, with varying thickness from several feet at the base to one foot at the top, all covered by two feet of earth. This design effectively directed the force of the explosion upwards rather than outwards, limiting damage to the affected igloo and leaving surrounding igloos undamaged. This incident demonstrated the importance of robust construction and safety measures in such high-risk environments.
1962
In 1962, the depot assumed the responsibility of storing chemical weapons, and at its peak, it held 12% of the nation's chemical weapons stockpile.
1990
Between 1990 and 1994, the facility underwent a significant reorganization in anticipation of its eventual closure. During this period, all conventional ammunition and supplies were systematically transported to other military installations.
2004
The demilitarization operations at the Umatilla Chemical Depot Facility (UMCDF) commenced in 2004..
2010
On January 29, 2010, a gathering of the Umatilla Army Depot Reuse Authority convened at the Port of Morrow in Boardman, Oregon, to offer their ultimate input and cast their votes in favor of endorsing the UMCD Redevelopment Plan and HUD Application, a comprehensive effort that had been in progress since January 2009. In a unanimous decision, the assembly officially embraced the UMCD Redevelopment Plan and HUD Application, solidifying the culmination of the diligent work and expertise contributed by the Umatilla Army Depot Reuse Authority (UMADRA) in crafting the most optimal land reuse strategy.
2011
The demilitarization operations at UMCDF reached their successful conclusion in 2011. This marked the end of a significant effort dedicated to eliminating hazardous materials and chemical agents that posed a threat to the facility's surroundings and the environment.
2013
The process of dismantling the chemical disposal facility commenced in August 2013, with the initial expectation that the base would be ready for state and private usage by early 2015. However, the timeline for this transition experienced multiple delays, primarily attributed to challenges encountered during the cleanup phase. These delays were first extended by the Columbia Development Authority to 2016, then to 2017, and ultimately stretching into 2018. Following the planned decommissioning and the transfer of the land in 2018, the Oregon Military Department has outlined its intentions to repurpose a portion of the base for use as a training facility. Simultaneously, the remaining land will be designated for industrial purposes and also transformed into a wildlife refuge.
2022
On September 29, 2022, an official ceremony was held to rename the former Umatilla Chemical Depot in honor of Major General (ret.) Raymond F. Rees. The event featured the unveiling of a newly constructed archway bearing his name, a symbol of the recognition and appreciation for his significant contributions and service.
2023
In spring 2023, the transfer of the land from the Army to the Columbia Development Authority was successfully completed.
Resources
On March 3rd, 2023, the Columbia Development Authority (CDA) assumed ownership of a vast 9,511-acre property, of which approximately 4,000 acres have been designated for a blend of flexible heavy and light industry zoning. One distinct advantage of this property is its low susceptibility to natural hazards. Situated in a cool, arid desert climate, the land features flat terrain with non-expansive soils, minimizing the risk of flooding. Moreover, the absence of sensitive wetlands enhances the security and suitability of these parcels for a wide array of industrial applications. In summary, the CDA's acquisition and zoning decisions present a compelling opportunity for businesses seeking to establish or expand their industrial operations in Umatilla County, Oregon. With ample space, existing infrastructure, robust utility support, and a favorable environmental profile, this property stands as a promising choice for fostering economic development and industrial growth in the region.
Agency Links
Files
Interactive Tract Maps
Click on a map below to open. To return to the Story Map click on the two converging arrows in the upper right corner.
OMD Tract Map
CDA Zoning
Disclaimer: This ESRI Storymap is created and managed by Morrow County. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented in this Storymap, errors and omissions may occur. Morrow County is committed to providing accurate and up-to-date information, and we appreciate your assistance in identifying any discrepancies or issues.
If you come across any errors, inaccuracies, or have any feedback related to this Storymap, please contact Stephen Wrecsics at swrecsics@co.morrow.or.us or 541.922.4624.
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