OR Dept. of Forestry release – Salem, Ore.—The Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) held a public training session covering new rules regarding streams and roads to help forestland owners prepare for changes to the Forest Practices Act (FPA) that go into effect Jan. 1. “This training explains changes to the Forest Practices Act for owners of large and small forestland tracts. Although there is a focus on stream buffer and road assessment rule changes, the training provides an overview of other rule changes and new programs too,” said Forest Resource Policy, Training, and Enforcement Manager Megan Cogswell. Visit the Forest Practices Act webpage to: view a recorded version of an earlier session of the Streams and Roads training. view a factsheet summarizing key dates and changes called New Forest Practices Rules. Small forestland owners who need assistance or resources can contact ODF’s new Small Forestland Owner Office. “Small forestland owners” are described as owning less than 5,000 acres and harvesting 2,000 million board feet on average per year over a three-year period. There are specific programs available for landowners who qualify, including the Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat (SFISH) and the Forest Conservation Tax Credit. Contact the SFO office at: smallforestlandowneroffice@odf.oregon.gov, or use the ODF “Find a Forester” tool.
