A May 7 open house will offer a look at the history of the Elliott State Forest – and what’s ahead as the State of Oregon and Oregon State University begin exploring the Elliott’s potential as a research forest. The event is an opportunity to learn about the forest and its history, what led to exploration of a potential research forest, and the upcoming planning process. Representatives from the Oregon Department of State Lands and the Oregon State University College of Forestry will be on hand to provide information and answer questions. Elliott State Forest Open House – Tuesday, May 7, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m., Oregon Department of State Lands Atrium, 775 Summer St. NE, Salem. The open house is the first of multiple public events that will be held as the planning process continues. Stay up-to-date by signing up for the project mailing list at: https://www.oregon.gov/dsl/Land/Pages/Elliott.aspx Background: Exploring an Elliott State Research Forest – The State Land Board in December directed the Oregon Department of State Lands (DSL) to work with Oregon State University (OSU) on a plan to transform the Elliott into a research forest. 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. 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.
