Don’t Leave Oregon’s Rural Communities Behind

The Oregon Department of Forestry is in the process of developing a management plan for state forests — a decision that directly affects jobs, small businesses and county budgets across western Oregon.

Oregon’s economy is already struggling, and our rural communities are being hit hardest. County governments are cutting services; local businesses are tightening their belts and families are doing more with less.

State forests can sustain themselves and provide stable revenue through responsible timber harvests. Over half of state forests have already been set aside for wildlife habitat, far exceeding the expectations for environmental and social outcomes.

Tell the Department to focus on economic outcomes on the remaining acres:

Support working forests
Protect rural jobs and communities
Oppose unnecessary restrictions
Ensure ODF self-sufficiency
Restore balance

Your voice matters. Send your message today!

Dear [Lawmaker],

Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the Western State Forest Management Plan.

I urge the Department to advance a management plan that supports working forests and rural communities. Please do not give in to anti-forestry activists’ insatiable demands for more restrictions.

Over half of state forests have already been set aside for wildlife habitat and the Department’s own modeling demonstrates those acres will over-deliver on environmental outcomes. Enough is enough.

Now is the time to focus on economic outcomes that will not compromise conservation goals already in place. Timber-dependent communities and families rely on these forests for stable employment and economic vitality.

Counties, taxing districts and schools depend on revenue from state forests for their budgets. Reductions in timber harvests not only jeopardize their ability to provide crucial services to their communities but also jeopardize the Department’s self-sufficiency. ODF must generate revenue to sustain operations without burdening taxpayers.

For the sake of balanced management, fiscal responsibility and the long-term vitality of Oregon’s forests and communities, please advance a forest management plan that focuses on economic outcomes.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,
______

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