Bill > SB404

This bill provides a mechanism for counties to acquire state forest lands under specific conditions. The bill defines "forest lands" as lands owned by the state that constitute a state forest, excluding certain common school forest lands. Under the proposed legislation, a county can request the State Board of Forestry to transfer forest lands within its jurisdiction if the county's commissioners determine that such a transfer would provide the greatest permanent value to the county. The conveyance is subject to existing encumbrances, covenants, easements, and lease agreements. The county must cover all transaction and closing costs and can pay the state a consideration based on factors such as the original purchase price, partition costs, title suit expenses, and transaction costs. Once transferred, the lands become county lands and remain subject to existing forestry regulations. The bill requires the Oregon Department of Administrative Services to assist the State Board of Forestry in facilitating these land transfers, and any funds received from the transfer will be deposited into the State Forestry Department Account.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/SB404