Bill > HB3143

This bill establishes the Landowners Living with Beavers Grant Program to help Oregon residents coexist with beavers on private land. The program will create a new subaccount within the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund, which will receive $1.5 million from the General Fund for its initial funding. The State Department of Fish and Wildlife, in consultation with the Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee, will administer block grants of up to $50,000 to eligible applicants like watershed councils, soil and water conservation districts, and nonprofit organizations. These grants will support beaver coexistence projects that help landowners mitigate beaver-related challenges, including providing tree protection tools, flood prevention devices, culvert and infrastructure protection systems, crop protection strategies, landowner education, and training. The program aims to help landowners quickly and efficiently manage beaver interactions by offering technical assistance and funding for practical solutions. Additionally, the department and advisory committee are required to submit a joint report to the legislative environment committees by September 15, 2027, detailing the program's expenditures, status, and outcomes. The bill will take effect 91 days after the 2025 legislative session adjourns.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3143