Introduction
Oregon’s forests are not only a source of natural beauty but also a critical resource for carbon storage, biodiversity, and economic stability. The recent communication from the State Forest Coalition Groups to the Oregon Board of Forestry highlights a pivotal moment for the future of our forests. As the state moves forward with the Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) and drafts new Forest Management Plan (FMP) scenarios, this letter offers clear and urgent recommendations to align forest management with climate-smart practices, biodiversity goals, and sustainable timber practices.
The Coalition’s letter urges the Board to ensure that the Climate Change and Carbon Plan, adopted in 2021, becomes a cornerstone of forest management strategies. Let’s break down their key insights and recommendations for the future of Oregon’s forests.
Read our Comments In The Letter Published on Nov. 12th
A Vision for Oregon’s Forests
The State Forest Coalition Groups commend the Board of Forestry for progress in managing state forests to achieve the greatest permanent value for Oregonians. They emphasize the importance of finalizing the Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) for Western Oregon State Forests and integrating meaningful climate-focused practices into future management plans.
These recommendations are not just about protecting the environment—they are about balancing economic and ecological needs while safeguarding Oregon’s forests for future generations.
Key Takeaways from the State Forest Coalition Letter
1. Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP) Progress
The Coalition celebrates the implementation of the HCP, which aligns with federal Endangered Species Act requirements while maintaining timber revenue. The HCP has proven that sustainable forestry practices can coexist with economic goals in the short term. However, long-term challenges will require innovative approaches to diversify revenue sources and reduce reliance on timber harvest.
2. Climate Change and Carbon Plan Implementation
The Climate Plan sets ambitious goals, but its execution has lagged. The Coalition calls on the Board to:
- Prioritize carbon storage and longer logging rotations.
- Protect climate-sensitive habitats and old-growth stands.
- Incorporate carbon pricing into forest management decisions.
- Restore areas affected by pests and climate impacts using appropriate species.
By aligning forest management with these strategies, Oregon can lead in climate-smart forestry while preserving vital ecosystems.
3. Timber Harvest Model Recommendations
The draft Forest Management Plan scenarios include several timber harvest models, but the Coalition highlights concerns about their alignment with climate goals. Specifically, they urge:
- Eliminating unrealistic or high-harvest scenarios like “Run C,” which averages 205 million board feet annually.
- Focusing on carbon storage and ecosystem benefits over maximizing short-term economic returns.
- Retaining all stands over 90 years old to maximize long-term carbon storage.
These recommendations aim to strike a balance between ecological sustainability and economic viability.
Why This Matters
Oregon’s forests are a vital resource for:
- Carbon Storage: Forests act as carbon sinks, essential for combating climate change.
- Biodiversity: Protecting habitats for endangered species preserves the state’s rich ecological heritage.
- Community and Economy: Sustainable forestry supports jobs and revenue for rural communities while ensuring long-term resource availability.
Ignoring the Climate Plan’s directives or over-prioritizing short-term timber revenue risks undermining these critical functions, jeopardizing both the environment and future economic stability.
How You Can Support Sustainable Forest Management
- Stay Informed: Learn more about the Habitat Conservation Plan, the Climate Plan, and the Board of Forestry’s upcoming decisions.
- Engage with Policymakers: Write to the Oregon Board of Forestry to express support for climate-smart forestry practices.
- Support Conservation Groups: Organizations like the Tualatin Riverkeepers, 350PDX, and Cascadia Wildlands are leading the charge for sustainable forestry. Your support amplifies their impact.
- Share the Message: Discuss these issues with your community to raise awareness about the importance of aligning forest management with climate and conservation goals.
A Shared Responsibility for Oregon’s Future
Oregon’s forests are at a crossroads. By integrating the Climate Change and Carbon Plan into the Forest Management Plan and implementing realistic, forward-thinking strategies, we can ensure these lands thrive for generations to come. The State Forest Coalition’s letter is a vital reminder that managing forests for the “greatest permanent value” means valuing their role in sustaining life—human and non-human alike.
Now is the time to act, together, for the future of Oregon’s forests.