Bill > SB147

This bill transforms the Elliott State Forest into the Elliott State Research Forest, managed by the State Land Board with a dedicated purpose of maintaining a world-class research forest. The bill establishes an Elliott State Research Forest Account in the State Treasury, which will receive revenues from forest products, carbon credits, ecosystem services, and potential gifts or grants. The State Land Board is prohibited from selling forest lands but may approve land expansions or exchanges that further the forest's research purposes, with strict requirements that such exchanges must consolidate the forest and involve lands of approximately equal value. The bill transfers management responsibilities from the State Board of Forestry to the State Land Board and removes previous legal restrictions on the forest's management. Key provisions include allowing the Department of State Lands to adopt rules, enter into agreements, and convene advisory committees, as well as providing flexibility for research, education, recreation, and habitat improvement activities. The bill aims to preserve the forest's ecological and scientific value while creating a sustainable model for forest management and research.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB147