Bill > HB3455

This bill establishes a process for counties to acquire state forest lands under specific conditions. The bill allows county commissioners to request the State Board of Forestry transfer forest lands to their county if they determine the transfer would provide the greatest permanent value to the county. The lands would be conveyed subject to existing encumbrances, covenants, easements, and lease agreements. The county must pay all transaction and closing costs related to the transfer, and would be required to pay the state a consideration amount based on the original purchase price, any partitioning costs, title suit expenses, and transaction costs. The bill defines "forest lands" as lands that constitute a state forest, but explicitly excludes Common School Forest Lands. Upon transfer, the lands would become county lands, and any funds received by the state from the transfer would be deposited in the State Forestry Department Account. The Oregon Department of Administrative Services is tasked with assisting the State Board of Forestry in completing these land transfers.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://olis.oregonlegislature.gov/liz/2025R1/Measures/Overview/HB3455