Elliott State Research Forest Concept, April 4

As development of a plan to create an Elliott State Research Forest progresses, Oregonians have many ways to stay informed about the planning process. The State Land Board in December directed the Department of State Lands (DSL) to work with Oregon State University (OSU) on a plan to transform the Elliott into a research forest. “The Elliott State Forest is important to many Oregonians, for many different reasons,” says Vicki Walker, DSL Director. “The Elliott’s 80,000-plus acres have great potential for research on a working forest, as well as providing other benefits such as recreation and education.” DSL and OSU signed an agreement in February that outlines the issues needing to be explored and addressed in developing a plan for Land Board consideration in December 2019. The planning process will examine what a world-class research program on the Elliott could look like, what it will take to realize that vision, and how the forest can be managed for that purpose while also protecting benefits such as recreation and conservation and generating revenue to be self-supporting. Overall, any plan needs to meet OSU’s program and financial requirements and also deliver on the Land Board’s vision for the future of the Elliott: that the forest remains publicly owned; the forest is decoupled from the Common School Fund and the fund is compensated for the value of the forest; and habitat conservation planning protects species while also allowing for timber harvest. DSL and OSU are aiming to present a plan to the Land Board in December 2019. Oregonians can stay up-to-date throughout the planning process via the project website, a go-to resource for: Advisory committee information. DSL has formed an Elliott State Research Forest Advisory Committee. The committee, which will represent a variety of perspectives on the forest, will begin meeting this month to provide insight and input on key elements of the plan. Email list signup information. Updates will be provided via the Elliott State Forest mailing list throughout the project. Event information. Public events will be held during the planning process for Oregonians to learn more and to provide input. DSL anticipates holding its first informational open house in May, with others to follow as the process progresses. The project website is on the DSL website at: www.oregon.gov/dsl/Land/Pages/Elliott.aspx