Stream Temperatures & Wildfire Outlook on Agenda, June 3

The Oregon Board of Forestry will review rules aimed to keep stream temperatures cool, and a fire season forecast on June 3 in Salem. Later this summer, the Board is scheduled to decide on next steps for setting cold-water standards for Oregon streams. To prepare, Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) staff will present the results of their research outlining outcomes associated with various forest management activities. ODF fire protection staff will also forecast the 2015 wildfire season. Drought and low snowpack this year present challenges following severe 2013 and 2014 fire seasons. OTHER AGENDA HIGHLIGHTS – Subcommittee on alternative forest management plans. The Board subcommittee will provide a progress report on its exploration of ways to improve financial viability and conservation outcomes for the State Forests Division and state forestlands. Forest Protection Districts’ 2016 fiscal budgets and rates. Laying out proposed expenditures for firefighting personnel, equipment and services to protect forestlands from wildfire, staff will present draft budgets to the Board and the State Forester for consideration.