ORS § 526.600 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.600
526.600 Definitions for ORS 526.600 to 526.675
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 526.600 (Definitions for ORS 526.600 to 526.675) to 526.675 (Oregon Forest Resources Institute Fund) , unless the context requires otherwise:

(1) “Institute” means the Oregon Forest Resources Institute.

(2) “Producer” means a producer of forest products and includes any person, partnership, association, corporation, cooperative or other business entity involved in the growing, harvesting or producing of timber or timber products. “Producer” does not include landowners who meet the requirement of ORS 526.610 (Oregon Forest Resources Institute) (4). [1991 c.949 §2; 1995 c.225 §2; 2003 c.423 §9]

Source: Section 526.600 — Definitions for ORS 526.600 to 526.675 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.798 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.798
527.798 Reporting points of diversion
Status: in_force

(1) As used in this section, “department reporting system” and “water use qualifying for a spray buffer” have the meanings given those terms in ORS 527.786 (Definitions) .

(2) The State Forestry Department shall record in the department reporting system any points of diversion inventoried by the Water Resources Department that are:

(a) For a water use qualifying for a spray buffer; and

(b) Mapped with sufficient precision to allow the State Forestry Department to implement buffers under ORS 527.797 (Limitations on pesticide applications) (2)(c).

(3) The State Forestry Department shall periodically review Water Resources Department inventory information for points of diversion and update State Forestry Department reporting system information as necessary to comply with subsection (2) of this section. [2020 s.s.1 c.16 §20]

Source: Section 527.798 — Reporting points of diversion , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.801 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.801
526.801 Definitions for ORS 526.801 to 526.831 and 526.992
Status: in_force

As used in ORS 526.801 (Definitions for ORS 526.801 to 526.831 and 526.992) to 526.831 (Contract cancellation for timber export violation) and 526.992 (Criminal and civil penalties for timber export violation) :

(1) “Export” means that unprocessed timber is loaded on a vessel or other conveyance with a foreign destination or is present at a facility such as a port or dock with intent to load it on a vessel or other conveyance with a foreign destination.

(2) “Person” means an individual, a partnership, a public or private corporation, an unincorporated association or any other legal entity. “Person” includes any subsidiary subcontractor, parent company or other affiliate. Business entities are considered affiliates when one controls or has the power to control the other or when both are controlled directly or indirectly by a third person.

(3) “Private lands” means lands within the State of Oregon owned by a person. “Private lands” does not include federal lands or nonfederal public lands, or any lands the title to which is:

(a) Held in trust by the United States for the benefit of any Indian tribe or individual.

(b) Held by any Indian tribe or individual subject to a restriction by the United States against alienation.

(4) “Public body” means an agency of the State of Oregon or of any other political subdivision.

(5) “Public lands” means lands owned by the State of Oregon or by any other political subdivision.

(6) “Unprocessed timber” means trees or portions of trees or other roundwood not processed to standards and specifications suitable for end product use. “Unprocessed timber” does not include timber processed into any one of the following:

(a) Lumber or construction timbers, meeting current American Lumber Standards Grades or Pacific Lumber Inspection Bureau Export R or N list grades, sawn on four sides, not intended for remanufacture.

(b) Lumber, construction timbers, or cants for remanufacture, meeting current American Lumber Standards Grades or Pacific Lumber Inspection Bureau Export R or N list clear grades, sawn on four sides, not to exceed 12 inches (nominal) in thickness.

(c) Lumber, construction timbers or cants for remanufacture, that do not meet the grades referred to in paragraph (b) of this subsection and are sawn on four sides, with wane less than one-fourth of any face, not exceeding eight and three-fourths inches in thickness.

(d) Chips, pulp or pulp products.

(e) Veneer or plywood.

(f) Poles, posts or piling cut or treated with preservatives for use as such.

(g) Shakes or shingles.

(h) Aspen or other pulpwood bolts, not exceeding 100 inches in length, exported for processing into pulp.

(i) Pulp logs or cull logs processed at domestic pulp mills, domestic chip plants or other domestic operations for the purpose of conversion of the logs into chips.

(j) Firewood cut in pieces 48 inches or less in length. [1991 c.942 §2]

Source: Section 526.801 — Definitions for ORS 526.801 to 526.831 and 526.992 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.711 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.711
527.711 Private Forest Accord rule package
Status: repealed

(1) The State Board of Forestry shall, as a single rule package following a single, consolidated rulemaking process:

(a) Adopt rules consistent with the requirements of the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, to the extent that requirements in the Private Forest Accord Report do not contravene statutory requirements.

(b) As needed to conform with the rules described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, and only as needed to conform with the rules described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, amend or repeal the rules in effect on March 17, 2022, that implement ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) .

(2) When adopting, amending or repealing rules as described in subsection (1) of this section, the board shall resolve any gaps or ambiguities in the requirements of the Private Forest Accord Report by:

(a) Referring to the intent and structure of the rules implementing ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) that are in effect on March 17, 2022; and

(b) Achieving the outcomes described in the Private Forest Accord Report.

(3) The department shall:

(a) Publish the Private Forest Accord Report.

(b) Ensure that the Private Forest Accord Report remains publicly available on a department website. [2022 c.33 §2]

Note: 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (second note below).

Note: Section 5, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, provides:

Sec. 5. Timeline for applicability of Private Forest Accord rule package. (1) As used in this section:

(a) “Common ownership” has the meaning given that term in section 16 of this 2022 Act [ 527.738 (Riparian prescriptions) ].

(b) “Small forestland” means forestland that has an owner that owns or holds common ownership interest in less than 5,000 acres of forestland in this state.

(2) Rules adopted or amended as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act [ 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ] apply only to an operation for which a notification is filed under ORS 527.670 (Commencement of operations) (6):

(a) On or after January 1, 2024.

(b) Before January 1, 2024, if the operation is not completed on or before December 31, 2023.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, rules adopted or amended as part of the rule package that relate to fish buffers apply to an operation, other than an operation on small forestland, for which a notification is filed on or after July 1, 2023.

(4) If the State Forester determines that a forest activity electronic reporting and notice system operated by the State Forestry Department is not updated with the information necessary to implement the requirements of the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the department on February 7, 2022, in time for operations to reasonably comply with the requirements by January 1, 2024, the deadlines described in subsection (2) of this section for application of rules that do not relate to fish buffers:

(a) May be extended by the State Forester for a period not to exceed one year; and

(b) After an extension described in paragraph (a) of this subsection, may be extended by the State Board of Forestry only if the board finds that the additional extension is necessary. [2022 c.33 §5]

Note: Sections 54 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, provide:

Sec. 54. Statement of legislative intent concerning habitat conservation plan and incidental take permit. (1) The Legislative Assembly intends that the policies described in sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 9, 26 to 29, 40, 41 and 45 to 49 of this 2022 Act shall remain in effect only if:

(a) An incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is issued on or before December 31, 2027;

(b) The State Board of Forestry has not made a finding that the habitat conservation plan imposes more than a de minimis difference in economic or resource impacts, at the level of landscapes, relative to rules adopted or amended as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act [ 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ]; and

(c) The incidental take permit remains in effect.

(2) The legislative intent described in subsection (1) of this section is established by sections 55 to 64 of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.33 §54]

Sec. 55. Petition for finding related to habitat conservation plan. (1) If an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan responsive to the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is issued on or before December 31, 2027, an author of the Private Forest Accord Report may, no later than 14 days after the date the incidental take permit is issued, petition the State Board of Forestry to make a finding as to whether the habitat conservation plan imposes more than a de minimis difference in economic or resource impacts, at the level of landscapes, relative to rules adopted or amended as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act [ 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ].

(2) If the board receives a petition described in subsection (1) of this section, the board shall issue a finding no later than 45 days after the date the petition is received.

(3) If the board finds that the habitat conservation plan imposes more than a de minimis difference:

(a) On or before the 91st day after the date the board makes the finding, the board shall:

(A) Repeal new rules adopted as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(B) Amend rules in effect on or before the effective date of this 2022 Act [March 17, 2022] as needed to conform with repeals described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.

(C) Amend any other rules as needed to conform with repeals described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph.

(b) On or before the 120th day after the board makes the finding, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall amend rules as needed to conform the rules with actions taken by the board under paragraph (a) of this subsection. [2022 c.33 §55]

Sec. 56. Revocation or invalidation of incidental take permit. If, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, the State Board of Forestry does not make a finding or finds that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act does not impose more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act, and the incidental take permit described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act is subsequently revoked or invalidated:

(1) On or before the 180th day after the date that any appeals process related to the revocation or invalidation has been exhausted or foregone, whichever occurs first, the board shall:

(a) Repeal new rules adopted as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act [ 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ].

(b) Amend rules in effect on or before the effective date of this 2022 Act [March 17, 2022] as needed to conform with repeals described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(c) Amend any other rules as needed to conform with repeals described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(2) On or before the 210th day after the date that any appeals process related to the revocation or invalidation has been exhausted or foregone, whichever occurs first, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall amend rules as needed to conform the rules with actions taken by the board under subsection (1) of this section. [2022 c.33 §56]

Sec. 57. Issuance of incidental take permit on or before December 31, 2027. If an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is not issued on or before December 31, 2027:

(1) On or before April 1, 2028, the State Board of Forestry shall:

(a) Repeal new rules adopted as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act [ 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ].

(b) Amend rules in effect on or before the effective date of this 2022 Act [March 17, 2022] as needed to conform with repeals described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(c) Amend any other rules as needed to conform with repeals described in paragraph (a) of this subsection.

(2) On or before May 1, 2028, the State Fish and Wildlife Commission shall amend rules as needed to conform the rules with actions taken by the board under subsection (1) of this section. [2022 c.33 §57]

Sec. 58. Report on issuance of incidental take permit and finding related to habitat conservation plan. On or before February 1, 2028, the State Board of Forestry shall report to a committee or interim committee of the Legislative Assembly related to forestry, in the manner described in ORS 192.245 (Form of report to legislature) , on:

(1) Whether the incidental take permit described in section 11 of this 2022 Act was issued on or before December 31, 2027.

(2) Whether the board has received a petition to make a finding described in section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.33 §58]

Sec. 59. Report on revocation or invalidation of incidental take permit. If an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is issued on or before December 31, 2027, but is subsequently revoked or invalidated, after the date that any appeals process related to the revocation or invalidation has been exhausted or forgone, whichever occurs first, the State Board of Forestry shall:

(1) Promptly report the revocation or invalidation to a committee or interim committee of the Legislative Assembly related to forestry, in the manner described in ORS 192.245 (Form of report to legislature) .

(2) Notify the Office of the Legislative Counsel of the revocation or invalidation as soon as practicable. [2022 c.33 §59]

Sec. 60. Conditional repeals. Sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act are repealed. [2022 c.33 §60]

Sec. 61. Operation of conditional provisions upon finding related to habitat conservation plan. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 62 and 63 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if the State Board of Forestry finds, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act imposes more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act.

(2) If the board finds, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act imposes more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on the 150th day after the date the board makes the finding. [2022 c.33 §61]

Sec. 62. Operation of conditional provisions upon revocation or invalidation of incidental take permit. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 61 and 63 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if:

(a) Pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, the State Board of Forestry does not make a finding or finds that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act does not impose more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act; and

(b) The incidental take permit is subsequently revoked or invalidated.

(2) If the events described in subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section occur, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on the 240th day after the date that any appeals process related to the revocation or invalidation has been exhausted or foregone, whichever occurs first. [2022 c.33 §62]

Sec. 63. Operation of conditional provisions upon failure to issue incidental take permit on or before December 31, 2027. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 61 and 62 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is not issued on or before December 31, 2027.

(2) If an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report is not issued on or before December 31, 2027, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on June 1, 2028. [2022 c.33 §63]

Sec. 64. Repeal of conditionally operative provisions. Sections 59 and 62 of this 2022 Act are repealed on January 2, 2077. [2022 c.33 §64]

Note: 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) and 527.712 (Exemption for practices that comply with federal Endangered Species Act agreements) were added to and made a part of 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) by legislative action but were not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 527.711 — Private Forest Accord rule package , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.614 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.614
530.614 Authorization to issue bonds or other obligations
Status: in_force

(1) To accomplish its purposes, a community forest authority created under ORS 530.606 (Creation of authority) may issue revenue bonds or other revenue obligations payable from the revenues derived from the repayment of loans to nonprofit corporations whose purpose is to own and operate community forestlands. The issuance of revenue bonds or other revenue obligations is governed by the provisions of this section and is not subject to the prior approval of the electors of the municipality that created the authority.

(2) An authority may issue and sell revenue bonds or other revenue obligations payable as to principal and interest only out of the fund or funds established under this section or other assets of the authority that are pledged by the board of directors to secure the revenue bonds or other revenue obligations. The bond resolution:

(a) Must specify the public purposes for which the proceeds of the revenue bonds or other revenue obligations will be expended and declare the estimated cost of carrying out those purposes.

(b) Must contain covenants and provide for the issuance and sale of revenue bonds or other revenue obligations in a form, amount and manner that the directors determine. In declaring the estimated cost, the directors may include the moneys necessary for working capital, reserves, capitalized interest, the payment of financing and legal expenses, the repayment of advances and the start-up costs.

(c) May provide that community forestlands subsequently acquired by a nonprofit corporation shall be deemed betterments or additions to, or extensions of, the community forestlands, whether or not physically connected.

(d) Must provide for the establishment of one or more special funds under the control of the board or a trustee.

(e) Must obligate the authority to deposit and expend the proceeds of the revenue obligations only into and from the fund or funds established under this section and to set aside and pay into the fund or funds a fixed proportion or fixed amount of the revenues derived from the community forestlands or other corporate activities as the board finds in the best interest of the authority and the payment of its obligations.

(3) A revenue bond or other revenue obligation issued against a fund or funds established under this section is a valid claim of the holder only as against the fund or funds, the proportion or amount of the revenues pledged to the fund or funds and the other assets pledged, assigned or encumbered by the authority to secure the revenue bond or other revenue obligation. Each revenue bond or other revenue obligation must state on its face that:

(a) The bond or obligation is payable from a special fund or funds and name the fund or funds and the resolution that established the fund or funds; or

(b) That the bond or obligation is payable from other assets and identify those other assets and the resolution pledging, assigning or encumbering them.

(4) A pledge, assignment or encumbrance of revenues or other moneys or obligations or other assets made by an authority shall be valid and binding from the time that the pledge or assignment is made against a party with a subsequent claim of any kind in tort, contract, or otherwise against the authority, irrespective of whether the party has actual notice of the pledge, assignment or encumbrance. The pledge, assignment or encumbrance must be noted in the board’s minute book or bond transcripts, which shall be constructive notice thereof to all parties, and neither the resolution nor other instrument by which a pledge, assignment or encumbrance is created need be otherwise recorded, nor shall the filing of a financing statement under the Uniform Commercial Code be required to perfect the pledge, assignment or encumbrance. Revenues or other moneys or assets pledged, assigned or encumbered and later received by an authority are subject to the lien of the pledge immediately without physical delivery or further act.

(5) A revenue bond or other revenue obligation issued under the provisions of this section shall bear the date or dates, mature at the time or times, be in denominations and in a form, either coupon or registered or both, carry registration privileges, be made transferable, exchangeable and interchangeable, be payable in the medium, at the place or places, contain the covenants and be subject to the terms of redemption that the board may declare in the bond resolution.

(6) The revenue bonds or other revenue obligations issued by an authority may be sold by the board upon the terms and conditions and at the rate or rates of interest and for the price or prices that the authority deems most advantageous to the authority, with or without public bidding. The authority may make contracts for future sale from time to time of revenue bonds or other revenue obligations by which the contract purchasers are committed to the prices, terms and conditions stated in the contract, and the board may pay the consideration that the board deems proper for the commitments.

(7) The board by resolution may provide for the issuance of funding and refunding revenue bonds or other revenue obligations in order to take up and refund a series, or portion of a series, of outstanding revenue bonds or other revenue obligations at a time determined by the board. Refunding revenue bonds or other revenue obligations may be sold or exchanged at a price that the board determines is in the best interest of the authority.

(8) A revenue bond or other revenue obligation issued pursuant to this section is a legal security that may be used by any insured institution or trust company, as those terms are defined in ORS 706.008 (Additional definitions for Bank Act) , for deposit with the State Treasurer or a county treasurer or city treasurer, as security for deposits in lieu of a surety bond under a law relating to deposits of public moneys and constitutes legal investments for public bodies, trustees and other fiduciaries, banks, savings and loan associations, and insurance companies. All revenue bonds and obligations and all coupons appertaining thereto shall be negotiable instruments within the meaning of and for all purposes of the law of this state. [2005 c.500 §8]

Note: See note under 530.600 (Definitions for ORS 530.600 to 530.628) .

Source: Section 530.614 — Authorization to issue bonds or other obligations; method of issuance , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.602 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.602
530.602 Findings
Status: in_force

To provide the people of the State of Oregon with renewable commercial forest resources that promote community stability and sound conservation practices, the Legislative Assembly finds that it is necessary and desirable to authorize the creation of community forest authorities having the power to finance community forestlands and to authorize those authorities to issue revenue bonds and other obligations for that purpose. [2005 c.500 §2]

Note: See note under 530.600 (Definitions for ORS 530.600 to 530.628) .

Source: Section 530.602 — Findings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.670 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.670
527.670 Commencement of operations
Status: in_force

(1) The State Board of Forestry shall designate the types of operations for which notice shall be required under this section.

(2) The board shall identify by rule the types of operations that require a written plan.

(3) In addition to any other types of operations identified by the board, the board shall adopt rules to require a written plan for the following:

(a) An operation that occurs within 100 feet of a stream determined by the State Forester to be used by fish or for domestic use, unless:

(A) The board, by rule, provides that a written plan is not required because the operation will be conducted according to a general vegetation retention prescription described in administrative rule;

(B) The operation will not directly affect the riparian management area and the State Forester, acting under authority granted by a board rule, waives the written plan requirement; or

(C) The operation will be conducted pursuant to a stewardship agreement entered into under ORS 541.973 (Stewardship agreements) .

(b) An operation that occurs within 100 feet of a resource site that is inventoried under ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) (3) as a significant wetland but is not classified by board rule as an estuary, unless:

(A) The board, by rule, provides that a written plan is not required because the operation will be conducted according to a general vegetation retention prescription described in administrative rule;

(B) The operation will not directly affect the riparian management area and the State Forester, acting under authority granted by a board rule, waives the written plan requirement; or

(C) The operation will be conducted pursuant to a stewardship agreement entered into under ORS 541.973 (Stewardship agreements) .

(c) An operation that occurs within 300 feet of a resource site inventoried under ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) (3), other than a site described in paragraph (b) of this subsection, unless the operation:

(A) Will be conducted pursuant to a stewardship agreement entered into under ORS 541.973 (Stewardship agreements) ; and

(B) Is consistent with the purposes and policies of any relevant Safe Harbor Agreements or Candidate Conservation Agreements entered into between the State of Oregon and agencies of the United States Government, pursuant to the federal Endangered Species Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205, 16 U.S.C. 1531 et seq.) and federal regulations.

(4) The distances set forth in subsection (3) of this section are solely for the purpose of defining an area within which a hearing may be requested under ORS 527.700 (Appeals from orders of State Forester) and not the area to be protected by the board’s rules adopted pursuant to ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) (3)(c).

(5) For the purpose of determining the distances set forth in subsection (3) of this section “site” means the specific resource site and not any additional buffer area.

(6) An operator, timber owner or landowner, before commencing an operation, shall notify the State Forester. The notification shall be on forms provided by the State Forester and shall include the name and address of the operator, timber owner and landowner, the legal description of the operating area, and any other information considered by the State Forester to be necessary for the administration of the rules promulgated by the board pursuant to ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) . Promptly upon receipt of such notice, the State Forester shall provide a copy of the notice to whichever of the operator, timber owner or landowner did not submit the notification. The State Forester shall provide a copy of notices involving chemical applications to persons within 10 miles of the chemical application who hold downstream surface water rights pursuant to ORS chapter 537, if such a person has requested that notification in writing. The board shall adopt rules specifying the information to be contained in the notice. All information filed with the State Forester pertaining to chemical applications shall be public record.

(7) An operator, timber owner or landowner that filed an original notification shall notify the State Forester of any subsequent change in the information contained in the notification.

(8) Within six working days of receipt of a notice or a written plan filed under subsection (6) or (7) of this section, the State Forester shall make a copy of the notice or written plan available to any person who requested of the State Forester in writing that the person be provided with copies of notice and written plan and who has paid any applicable fee established by the State Forester for such service. The State Forester may establish a fee for providing copies of notices and written plans under this subsection not to exceed the actual and reasonable costs. In addition, the State Forester shall provide a copy of the notification to the Department of Revenue and the county assessor for the county in which the operation is located, at times and in a manner determined through written cooperative agreement by the parties involved.

(9) Persons may submit written comments pertaining to the operation to the State Forester within 14 calendar days of the date the notice or written plan was filed with the State Forester under subsection (2), (6) or (7) of this section. Notwithstanding the provisions of this subsection, the State Forester may waive any waiting period for operations not requiring a written plan under subsection (3) of this section, except those operations involving aerial application of chemicals.

(10) If an operator, timber owner or landowner is required to submit a written plan of operations to the State Forester under subsection (3) of this section:

(a) The State Forester shall review a written plan and may provide comments to the person who submitted the written plan;

(b) The State Forester may not provide any comments concerning the written plan earlier than 14 calendar days following the date that the written plan was filed with the State Forester nor later than 21 calendar days following the date that the written plan was filed; and

(c) Provided that notice has been provided as required by subsection (6) of this section, the operation may commence on the date that the State Forester provides comments or, if no comments are provided within the time period established in paragraph (b) of this subsection, at any time after 21 calendar days following the date that the written plan was filed.

(11) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Comments provided by the State Forester, or by the board under ORS 527.700 (Appeals from orders of State Forester) (6), to the person who submitted the written plan are for the sole purpose of providing advice to the operator, timber owner or landowner regarding whether the operation described in the written plan is likely to comply with ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) and rules adopted thereunder. Comments provided by the State Forester or the board do not constitute an approval of the written plan or operation.

(b) If the State Forester or the board does not comment on a written plan, the failure to comment does not mean that an operation carried out in conformance with the written plan complies with ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) or rules adopted thereunder nor does the failure to comment constitute a rejection of the written plan or operation.

(c) If the State Forester or board determines that an enforcement action may be appropriate concerning the compliance of a particular operation with ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) or rules adopted under ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , the State Forester or board shall consider, but are not bound by, comments that the State Forester provided under this section or comments that the board provided under ORS 527.700 (Appeals from orders of State Forester) .

(12) If the operation is required under rules described in subsection (3) of this section to have a written plan and comments have been timely filed under subsection (9) of this section pertaining to the operation requiring a written plan, the State Forester shall:

(a) Provide a copy of the State Forester’s review and comments, if any, to persons who submitted timely written comments under subsection (9) of this section pertaining to the operation; and

(b) Provide to the operator, timber owner and landowner a copy of all timely comments submitted under subsection (9) of this section. [1971 c.316 §9; 1987 c.919 §12; 1991 c.634 §5; 1991 c.919 §11; 1995 s.s. c.3 §39a; 1996 c.9 §3; 1997 c.413 §1; 2003 c.539 §39; 2003 c.740 §3; 2007 c.608 §5; 2011 c.54 §1]

Source: Section 527.670 — Commencement of operations; rules; written plan; effect of plan; notice of chemical application; fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.008 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.008
526.008 State Forestry Department
Status: in_force

The State Forestry Department consists of the State Forester and the deputy, assistants and employees of the forester, acting under direction of the State Board of Forestry. [1961 c.123 §1; 1965 c.253 §2]

Source: Section 526.008 — State Forestry Department , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.255 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.255
526.255 Long range management, marketing and harvest report
Status: in_force

"This report provides data described by ORS 526.255, which requires that the State Forester submit a biennial report to the Governor and to the committees of the Legislative Assembly…" Bibliographic info

The forester shall submit a biennial report to the Governor and to those committees of the Legislative Assembly with responsibility for forestry matters. The report shall contain matters that include, but are not limited to:

(1) The long range management plans based on current resource descriptions and technical assumptions, including sustained yield calculations for the purpose of maintaining economic stability in each management region.

(2) Marketing, reforestation and intensive management programs for the last completed biennium and the current biennium, and projected programs for the ensuing biennium. The marketing report shall include volume and value of new sales, volume and value of timber harvested and timber sales receipts distributed to counties and to the Common School Fund.

(3) The programmed harvest level on federal lands or federal policy changes that would impact that level of harvest on lands in Oregon. [1983 c.759 §15]

Source: Section 526.255 — Long range management, marketing and harvest report , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.780 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.780
527.780 Exemption from liability for trees or debris left on property
Status: in_force

(1) A landowner is not liable in tort for any personal injury, death or property damage that arises out of the leaving of trees and other debris on the property of the landowner under the provisions of ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , under any rules adopted pursuant to ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , or under any other law or rule requiring trees and debris to be left upon property after logging or other activity on the land.

(2) The limitation on liability provided by this section applies to any injury, death or damage arising out of wildfire, erosion, flooding, diversion of waters, damage to public improvements and any other injury, death or damage caused by trees or debris left by the landowner.

(3) The limitation on liability provided by this section does not apply if the injury, death or damage was caused by the intentional tort of the landowner or by the gross negligence of the landowner. As used in this subsection, “gross negligence” means negligence that is materially greater than the mere absence of reasonable care under the circumstances, and that is characterized by indifference to or reckless disregard of the rights of others.

(4) The limitation on liability provided by this section is in addition to any limitation on liability provided under ORS 105.672 (Definitions for ORS 105.672 to 105.696) to 105.696 (Duty of care or liability not created) .

(5) The limitation on liability provided by this section does not apply to any liability established by the provisions of ORS chapter 477. [1999 c.543 §1]

Source: Section 527.780 — Exemption from liability for trees or debris left on property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.785 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.785
527.785 Exemption from liability for large woody debris left on property
Status: in_force

(1) A landowner is not liable in tort for any personal injury, death or property damage that arises out of the leaving of large woody debris on the property of the landowner under the provisions of ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , under any rules adopted pursuant to ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , or under any other law or rule requiring trees and large woody debris to be left upon property after logging or other activity on the land.

(2) The limitation on liability provided by this section applies to any injury, death or damage arising out of wildfire, erosion, flooding, diversion of waters, damage to public improvements and any other injury, death or damage caused by the large woody debris left by the landowner.

(3) The limitation on liability provided by this section does not apply if the injury, death or damage was caused by the intentional tort of the landowner or by the gross negligence of the landowner. As used in this subsection, “gross negligence” means negligence that is materially greater than the mere absence of reasonable care under the circumstances, and that is characterized by indifference to or reckless disregard of the rights of others.

(4) The limitation on liability provided by this section is in addition to any limitation on liability provided under ORS 105.672 (Definitions for ORS 105.672 to 105.696) to 105.696 (Duty of care or liability not created) .

(5) The limitation on liability provided by this section does not apply to any liability established by the provisions of ORS chapter 477. [1999 c.863 §2]

Source: Section 527.785 — Exemption from liability for large woody debris left on property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.400 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.400
526.400 Small Forestland Owner Assistance Office
Status: repealed

(1) The Small Forestland Owner Assistance Office is created within the State Forestry Department.

(2) The office shall:

(a) Support and promote implementation of financial incentives and technical assistance programs for small forestland owners that align with the intent of the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the department on February 7, 2022.

(b) Carry out duties related to the Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat Program, as described in ORS 526.402 (Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat Program) .

(c) To support compliance with a habitat conservation plan that is consistent with the requirements of the Private Forest Accord Report, develop and maintain a database of:

(A) Landowners that the department has determined meet the requirements set forth in ORS 527.738 (Riparian prescriptions) (3).

(B) Forestland in this state that is owned by the landowners.

(C) The types and conditions of the forestland.

(D) The roads and streams located within the forestland.

(d) Serve as the lead coordination and support body within the department for programs, partnerships and educational opportunities not otherwise described in this section that support forestland owners that own or hold common ownership interest in less than 5,000 acres of forestland in this state.

(e) Identify and implement opportunities to leverage the programs, partnerships and educational opportunities to support activities consistent with the habitat conservation plan, including activities that provide for adequate fish passage, remove fish passage barriers, maintain roads or collect data related to the habitat conservation plan.

(f) Engage in any other duties delegated to the office by the State Board of Forestry or the department.

(3) The board may adopt rules as necessary to implement this section. [2022 c.33 §19]

Note: 526.400 (Small Forestland Owner Assistance Office) is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (second note below).

Note: 526.400 (Small Forestland Owner Assistance Office) , 526.402 (Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat Program) , 526.404 (Small Forestland Investment in Stream Habitat Program Fund) and 526.406 (Adopting rules as part of rule package) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 526 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Note: Sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, provide:

Sec. 54. Statement of legislative intent concerning habitat conservation plan and incidental take permit. (1) The Legislative Assembly intends that the policies described in sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 9, 26 to 29, 40, 41 and 45 to 49 of this 2022 Act shall remain in effect only if:

(a) An incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is issued on or before December 31, 2027;

(b) The State Board of Forestry has not made a finding that the habitat conservation plan imposes more than a de minimis difference in economic or resource impacts, at the level of landscapes, relative to rules adopted or amended as part of the rule package described in section 2 of this 2022 Act [ 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ]; and

(c) The incidental take permit remains in effect.

(2) The legislative intent described in subsection (1) of this section is established by sections 55 to 64 of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.33 §54]

Sec. 60. Conditional repeals. Sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act are repealed. [2022 c.33 §60]

Sec. 61. Operation of conditional provisions upon finding related to habitat conservation plan. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 62 and 63 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if the State Board of Forestry finds, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act imposes more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act.

(2) If the board finds, pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act imposes more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on the 150th day after the date the board makes the finding. [2022 c.33 §61]

Sec. 62. Operation of conditional provisions upon revocation or invalidation of incidental take permit. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 61 and 63 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if:

(a) Pursuant to section 55 (1) and (2) of this 2022 Act, the State Board of Forestry does not make a finding or finds that the habitat conservation plan described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act does not impose more than a de minimis difference, as described in section 55 (1) of this 2022 Act; and

(b) The incidental take permit is subsequently revoked or invalidated.

(2) If the events described in subsection (1)(a) and (b) of this section occur, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on the 240th day after the date that any appeals process related to the revocation or invalidation has been exhausted or foregone, whichever occurs first. [2022 c.33 §62]

Sec. 63. Operation of conditional provisions upon failure to issue incidental take permit on or before December 31, 2027. (1) Except as otherwise provided in sections 61 and 62 of this 2022 Act, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative only if an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022, is not issued on or before December 31, 2027.

(2) If an incidental take permit related to an approved habitat conservation plan consistent with the Private Forest Accord Report is not issued on or before December 31, 2027, the repeal of sections 1 to 8, 10 to 25, 30 to 39, 42 to 44 and 50 to 52 of this 2022 Act by section 60 of this 2022 Act and the amendments to ORS 195.308 (Exception to requirement for compensation) , 496.252 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Fund) , 496.254 (Oregon Conservation and Recreation Advisory Committee) , 527.620 (Definitions for ORS 527.610 to 527.770) , 527.630 (Policy) , 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.714 (Types of rules) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) , 527.992 (Civil penalties) , 610.060 (Effect of certain wildlife law provisions on predatory animal control) and 610.105 (Authority to control noxious rodents or predatory animals) by sections 65 to 76 of this 2022 Act become operative on June 1, 2028. [2022 c.33 §63]

Sec. 64. Repeal of conditionally operative provisions. Sections 59 and 62 of this 2022 Act are repealed on January 2, 2077. [2022 c.33 §64]

Source: Section 526.400 — Small Forestland Owner Assistance Office; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.520 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.520
526.520 Urban tree canopy assessment
Status: in_force

(1) The State Forestry Department shall acquire and maintain a statewide urban tree canopy assessment tool.

(2) The assessment tool must provide geospatial mapping that includes:

(a) A visualization of urban tree canopies, viewable at the census tract level;

(b) Community demographic, economic, social and health data;

(c) A comprehensive inventory of tree canopies on public lands;

(d) Rights of way and their associated jurisdictions;

(e) An urban green space assessment that includes an evaluation of vegetation health and a comparison of pervious surfaces to impervious surfaces within the green space; and

(f) An assessment of tree canopy and green space in the urban-rural gradient.

(3) The department may integrate the urban tree canopy assessment tool with data from other agency mapping tools, including the environmental justice mapping tool developed pursuant to ORS 182.555 (Environmental justice mapping tool) .

(4) The department shall make the urban tree canopy assessment tool available on a website maintained by the department, along with guidance for using the tool to promote environmental, social and economic well-being.

(5) Using the urban tree canopy assessment tool, the department shall designate as green infrastructure improvement zones areas of this state that have a high level of poverty density and any of the following:

(a) Low levels of tree canopy cover;

(b) Poor vegetation health;

(c) High risk of pests, disease or other threats to plant life; or

(d) Other needs for revegetation or holistic native plant restoration. [2023 c.442 §28]

Note: 526.520 (Urban tree canopy assessment) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 526 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 526.520 — Urban tree canopy assessment , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.360 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.360
527.360 Costs of eradication
Status: in_force

Upon completion of any work authorized and performed under the provisions of ORS 527.346 (State Forester to assist owners unable to take action against pest) , the State Forester shall prepare a certified statement of the expenses necessarily incurred in performing the work. The state shall assist in the payment of control costs from funds available for that purpose. The balance of the expenses, after deducting the sum of such amounts as may be contributed by the state, the federal government or any other agencies or persons to defray control costs, shall constitute a charge against the forestlands or timber involved and shall be collected in the same manner as forest patrol assessments under the provisions of ORS chapter 477. [Amended by 1967 c.87 §4; 1991 c.686 §8]

Source: Section 527.360 — Costs of eradication; state to contribute; unpaid costs to be charge against timber; collection of charge , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.704 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.704
527.704 Program of inspections
Status: repealed

(1) The State Forester, or a representative of the State Forester, shall conduct a program of inspections of forestland within the operating areas of operations for which notifications are filed pursuant to ORS 527.670 (Commencement of operations) (6), at regular intervals, to assess compliance with ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) and rules and orders adopted or issued thereunder.

(2) The inspection may occur:

(a) On or after the date on which notification is filed pursuant to ORS 527.670 (Commencement of operations) (6), but not more than three years after the date on which the State Forester learns that the operation has been completed.

(b) Only at a reasonable time, absent consent or a warrant.

(3) The person conducting the inspection shall:

(a) Advise the operator, timber owner or landowner that the inspection is being made pursuant to the law and is limited in scope to the operation subject to the relevant notification.

(b) Ensure that the inspection is tailored to assessing compliance with ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) and rules and orders adopted or issued thereunder.

(4) The State Forester may petition the circuit court of this state having jurisdiction over the forestland for a warrant authorizing the State Forester or a representative of the State Forester to inspect the forestland.

(5) The court may issue a warrant if:

(a) The State Forester or a representative of the State Forester has attempted inspection consistent with subsections (1) to (3) of this section and access to all or part of the forestland was actually or constructively denied; or

(b) The State Forester has reasonable cause to believe that a violation of ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) or a rule or order adopted or issued thereunder has occurred. [2022 c.33 §43]

Note: 527.704 (Program of inspections) is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (third note following 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ).

Note: 527.704 (Program of inspections) and 527.706 (Program of photogrammetric mapping) were added to and made a part of 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) by legislative action but were not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 527.704 — Program of inspections , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.050 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.050
530.050 Management of lands acquired
Status: in_force

"The plan would set aside some areas for endangered species and make them off limits for timber harvesting. The compromise isn't sitting well with all sides." Bibliographic info

Under the authority and direction of the State Board of Forestry except as otherwise provided for the sale of forest products, the State Forester shall manage the lands acquired pursuant to ORS 530.010 (State Board of Forestry authorized to acquire lands) to 530.040 (Exchange of forestland or timber) so as to secure the greatest permanent value of those lands to the state, and to that end may:

(1) Protect the lands from fire, disease and insect pests, cooperate with the counties and with persons owning lands within the state in the protection of the lands and enter into all agreements necessary or convenient for the protection of the lands.

(2) Sell forest products from the lands, and execute mining leases and contracts as provided for in ORS 273.551 (Mining and drilling leases on state lands) .

(3) Enter into and administer contracts for the sale of timber from lands owned or managed by the State Board of Forestry and the State Forestry Department.

(4) Enter into and administer contracts for activities necessary or convenient for the sale of timber under subsection (3) of this section, either separately from or in conjunction with contracts for the sale of timber, including but not limited to activities such as timber harvesting and sorting, transporting, gravel pit development or operation, and road construction, maintenance or improvement.

(5) Permit the use of the lands for other purposes, including but not limited to forage and browse for domestic livestock, fish and wildlife environment, landscape effect, protection against floods and erosion, recreation, and protection of water supplies when, in the opinion of the board, the use is not detrimental to the best interest of the state.

(6) Grant easements, permits and licenses over, through and across the lands. The State Forester may require and collect reasonable fees or charges relating to the location and establishment of easements, permits and licenses granted by the state over the lands. The fees and charges collected shall be used exclusively for the expenses of locating and establishing the easements, permits and licenses under this subsection and shall be placed in the State Forestry Department Account.

(7) Require and collect fees or charges for the use of state forest roads. The fees or charges collected shall be used exclusively for purposes of maintenance and improvements of the roads and shall be placed in the State Forestry Department Account.

(8) Reforest the lands and cooperate with the counties, and with persons owning timberlands within the state, in the reforestation, and make all agreements necessary or convenient for the reforestation.

(9) Require such undertakings as in the opinion of the board are necessary or convenient to secure performance of any contract entered into under the terms of this section or ORS 273.551 (Mining and drilling leases on state lands) .

(10) Sell rock, sand, gravel, pumice and other such materials from the lands. The sale may be negotiated without bidding, provided the appraised value of the materials does not exceed $2,500.

(11) Enter into agreements, each for not more than 10 years duration, for the production of minor forest products.

(12) Establish a forestry carbon offset program to market, register, transfer or sell forestry carbon offsets. In establishing the program, the forester may:

(a) Execute any contracts or agreements necessary to create opportunities for the creation of forestry carbon offsets; and

(b) Negotiate prices that are at, or greater than, fair market value for the transfer or sale of forestry carbon offsets.

(13) Establish a forestry renewable woody biomass conversion program to market, register, transfer or sell forestry woody biomass conversion offtakes. In establishing the program, the forester may:

(a) Execute any contracts or agreements necessary to create opportunities for the creation of forestry woody biomass conversion offtakes; and

(b) Negotiate prices that are at, or greater than, fair market value for the transfer or sale of forestry woody biomass conversion offtakes.

(14) Do all things and make all rules, not inconsistent with law, necessary or convenient for the management, protection, utilization and conservation of the lands. [Amended by 1953 c.65 §5; 1955 c.421 §3; 1957 c.228 §1; 1959 c.141 §1; 1963 c.475 §1; 1965 c.128 §1; 1967 c.396 §3; 1983 c.759 §9; 2001 c.752 §8; 2005 c.103 §37; 2015 c.447 §1; 2023 c.442 §31]

Note: Section 30, chapter 442, Oregon Laws 2023, provides:

Sec. 30. Low carbon fuels derived from woody biomass residues. (1) The College of Forestry at Oregon State University, in collaboration with the Department of Environmental Quality and the State Forestry Department, shall conduct research to develop methodologies and data necessary to establish fuel pathways, consistent with the clean fuels program adopted under ORS 468A.265 (Definitions) to 468A.277 (Rules) , for low carbon fuels derived from woody biomass residues from forestry operations. In carrying out the research under this section, the College of Forestry shall:

(a) Coordinate with the Department of Environmental Quality to ensure that the methodologies and data are consistent with the methodologies and data used to determine lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions and carbon intensity under the clean fuels program.

(b) Research any methods to convert biomass feedstocks to low carbon fuels, with particular focus on wood slash piles that would otherwise be burned on lands managed by the State Forester or lands used by the College of Forestry to carry out research.

(2) No later than July 31, 2025, the College of Forestry shall submit its findings in a report, in the manner provided by ORS 192.245 (Form of report to legislature) , to the interim committees of the Legislative Assembly related to natural resources. The report must include, but need not be limited to:

(a) Progress in establishing fuel pathways and carbon intensity values for low carbon fuels derived from woody biomass residues from forestry operations; and

(b) The impact converting woody biomass residues to low carbon fuels has on:

(A) Greenhouse gas and black carbon emissions;

(B) Snowpack in the Cascade Mountains;

(C) Water quality and drought; and

(D) Wildfire.

(3) The College of Forestry may collaborate with the Department of Environmental Quality or any other relevant state agency to prepare the report described in subsection (2) of this section. [2023 c.442 §30]

Source: Section 530.050 — Management of lands acquired; powers of forester; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.115 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.115
530.115 Disposition of certain moneys described in ORS 530.110
Status: in_force

(1) Except as set forth in subsection (2) of this section, moneys described in ORS 530.110 (Distribution of revenues from lands acquired under ORS 530.010 to 530.040) (1)(b) and (2)(c) shall be credited to the county in which the lands are situated and shall be paid quarterly to the county by a warrant drawn as provided by law, pursuant to claim therefor, duly approved by the State Board of Forestry. Payment shall be made on or before the last day of each month following the end of the calendar quarters ending on March 31, June 30, September 30 and December 31. Money received under this subsection by the county shall be applied in the following order:

(a) The county general fund shall be reimbursed for all costs and expenses incurred by the county in the maintenance and supervision of such lands and in any suits by it to quiet its title to lands conveyed to the state; provided that the proceeds so applied shall not be less than 10 percent of the total proceeds received.

(b) Twenty-five percent of the remainder of the money shall be credited and paid into the county school fund created under ORS 328.005 (County school fund) .

(c) The remainder of the money shall be by the county prorated and apportioned to the various taxing districts in which the lands are situated in the proportion that the rate of tax levy in each district as shown by the tax levy filed with the assessor for the last year in process of collection, bears to the total rate of tax levy of all such taxing bodies for such year.

(2) After payment of the principal and interest of each bond issue issued pursuant to ORS 530.210 (Definitions for ORS 530.210 to 530.280) to 530.280 (State Forestry General Obligation Bond Fund) , 20 percent of the moneys derived from forest products created through expenditures of moneys available from such bond issue shall be credited to the General Fund until the state is reimbursed for its costs under the bond issue in that county. However, the governing body of the county in its discretion may authorize a higher percentage of that county’s allocation for any year to be so credited to the General Fund. [1969 c.428 §3; 1969 c.595 §16; 1973 c.436 §2; 1977 c.840 §17]

Source: Section 530.115 — Disposition of certain moneys described in ORS 530.110; disposition of forest product rehabilitation revenues , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.231 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.231
526.231 Findings
Status: in_force

The Legislative Assembly finds and declares that:

(1) Nonindustrial private forests make a vital contribution to Oregon by providing jobs, products, an expanded tax base and other social and economic benefits.

(2) Providing a source of forest tree seedlings to owners of nonindustrial private forests is essential to securing the benefits described in subsection (1) of this section. [2005 c.541 §1]

Note: 526.231 (Findings) , 526.233 (Application of antitrust laws) and 526.237 (Acquisition of forest tree seedlings) were enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but were not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 526 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 526.231 — Findings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.635 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.635
526.635 Officers
Status: in_force

(1) The board of directors annually shall elect a chairperson.

(2) The board of directors shall meet regularly at least once each quarter, and at such other times as called by the chairperson. [1991 c.949 §10]

Source: Section 526.635 — Officers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.733 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.733
527.733 Independent Research and Science Team
Status: repealed

(1) The Independent Research and Science Team is established as an advisory committee to the State Board of Forestry.

(2) The team shall consist of an odd number of at least five voting members. The voting members must:

(a) Have demonstrated subject matter expertise in a relevant field and a graduate-level degree in a relevant natural resources-related field such as forestry, silviculture, ecology, hydrology, wildlife, fisheries or geology.

(b) Include, at all times:

(A) At least one voting member who represents a public institution.

(B) At least one voting member who represents the timber industry.

(C) At least one voting member who represents a nongovernmental organization that promotes conservation of freshwater aquatic habitat.

(3) Team members shall serve for initial terms of four years and may serve an unlimited number of terms.

(4) A team member may be removed by a two-thirds vote of the team or by a majority vote of the board.

(5) If there is a vacancy on the team, or if the team determines that a new scientific or technical discipline must be represented on the team in order for the team to perform its research duties:

(a) The team shall submit a list of candidates to the board.

(b) The board may appoint one or more of the candidates as voting members of the team.

(c) If the board does not select one or more voting members from the list of candidates, the team shall submit a new list of candidates to the board until such time as the board appoints one or more candidates as voting members of the team.

(6) The board shall adopt rules for administering subsection (5) of this section.

(7) The team shall:

(a) Conduct or oversee research requested by the Adaptive Management Program Committee.

(b) Report to the board and the committee on the findings of the research, including findings concerning the magnitude of impacts on species of concern, the urgency of needed action and the degree of scientific confidence or uncertainty behind the findings.

(8) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The team shall strive for full consensus in team decision-making.

(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of this subsection, the team shall make substantial decisions by a vote of at least two-thirds of the team members.

(9) Team members are not eligible for compensation or reimbursement for expenses. If an organization represented by a team member requests a participation grant to compensate for the organizational resources the organization dedicated to supporting the team member’s service on the team, subject to available funding, the board shall award the participation grant in an amount determined by the board.

(10) The board shall adopt rules describing a process for awarding participation grants described in subsection (9) of this section. [2022 c.33 §38]

Note: 527.733 (Independent Research and Science Team) is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (third note following 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ).

Source: Section 527.733 — Independent Research and Science Team; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.005 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.005
526.005 Definitions
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires:

(1) “Biomass” means any organic matter, including woody biomass, agricultural crops, wood wastes and residues, plants, aquatic plants, grasses, residues, fibers, animal wastes, municipal wastes and other waste materials.

(2) “Board” means the State Board of Forestry.

(3) “Certified Burn Manager” means an individual, other than the forester, who is currently certified under a program established pursuant to ORS 526.360 (Assistance with developing lands) (3).

(4) “Department” means the State Forestry Department.

(5) “Forester” means the State Forester or the authorized representative of the forester.

(6) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) “Forestland” means any woodland, brushland, timberland, grazing land or clearing that, during any time of the year, contains enough forest growth, slashing or vegetation to constitute, in the judgment of the forester, a fire hazard, regardless of how the land is zoned or taxed.

(b) As used in this subsection, “clearing” means any grassland, improved area, lake, meadow, mechanically or manually cleared area, road, rocky area, stream or other similar opening that is surrounded by or contiguous to land described in paragraph (a) of this subsection and that has been included in areas classified as forestland under ORS 526.305 (Definitions for ORS 526.305 to 526.370) to 526.370 (Seeding agreements as condition of supervision of burning on forestlands) .

(7) “Forestry carbon offset” means a transferable unit based on a measured amount of carbon storage expressed as a carbon dioxide emission equivalent, or other equivalent standard, and accruing on forestland as live or dead matter in trees, shrubs, forest litter and soil.

(8) “Nonindustrial private forest landowner” means any forest landowner who does not own a forest products manufacturing facility that employs more than six people.

(9) “Nonindustrial private forestland” means any forestland owned by a nonindustrial private forest landowner.

(10) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) “Woody biomass” means material from trees and woody plants, including limbs, tops, needles, leaves and other woody parts, grown in a forest, woodland, farm, rangeland or wildland-urban interface environment that is the by-product of forest management, ecosystem restoration or hazardous fuel reduction treatment.

(b) “Woody biomass” does not mean:

(A) Wood pieces that have been treated with creosote, pentachlorophenol, copper chrome arsenic or other chemical preservatives;

(B) Wood that must be retained under state or federal regulations;

(C) Wood required for large woody debris recruitment; or

(D) Municipal solid waste. [Amended by 1961 c.123 §3; 1965 c.253 §1; 1977 c.893 §14; 1997 c.274 §41; 1999 c.101 §1; 2001 c.752 §6; 2009 c.69 §2; 2011 c.276 §3]

STATE BOARD OF FORESTRY; STATE FORESTER; STATE FORESTRY DEPARTMENT

Source: Section 526.005 — Definitions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.152 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.152
526.152 Disposition of equipment
Status: in_force

(1) Any proceeds from the sale or other disposition of equipment of the equipment pool shall be credited to the State Forestry Department Account for equipment pool purposes.

(2) Should the equipment pool be terminated by the State Board of Forestry, each activity or program shall have an equity in the moneys of the pool and in the cash value of the equipment and personalty of the pool. The equity shall be in proportion to the amount of moneys and value of the equipment and personalty transferred to the pool under ORS 526.144 (Equipment pool) . By this subsection, each activity or program participating in the equipment pool has a continuing and recognized interest in the total value of the pool so long as the equipment pool exists unless otherwise such equity is purchased. [1965 c.253 §25]

Source: Section 526.152 — Disposition of equipment; termination of pool , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.125 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.125
526.125 Tillamook Forest Interpretive Center Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The State Forestry Department may receive and disburse gifts, grants, bequests, endowments and donations of labor and material from public and private sources for the purpose of developing and operating a forest interpretation and education center in the Tillamook State Forest.

(2) The Tillamook Forest Interpretive Center Fund is created in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. All moneys received by the State Forestry Department under subsection (1) of this section shall be paid into the State Treasury and credited to the Tillamook Forest Interpretive Center Fund. All interest earned by the fund shall be credited to the fund.

(3) All moneys in the Tillamook Forest Interpretive Center Fund are continuously appropriated to the State Forestry Department and may be expended only for the purposes specified in the gift or donation, or, if no purpose is specified, only for the purpose of forest interpretation and education. [1999 c.928 §1]

Note: 526.125 (Tillamook Forest Interpretive Center Fund) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 526 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 526.125 — Tillamook Forest Interpretive Center Fund; sources; use of moneys in fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.127 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.127
526.127 Forestry Natural Climate Solutions Fund
Status: in_force

(1) The Forestry Natural Climate Solutions Fund is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the Forestry Natural Climate Solutions Fund shall be credited to the fund. Moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the State Forestry Department to:

(a) Carry out the provisions of ORS 468A.189 (Allocations from Natural and Working Lands Fund) (3); and

(b) For the administrative expenses of the department in implementing ORS 468A.189 (Allocations from Natural and Working Lands Fund) , except that no more than 10 percent of moneys may be used for administrative expenses.

(2) The Forestry Natural Climate Solutions Fund consists of moneys transferred to the fund under ORS 468A.187 (Natural and Working Lands Fund) . [2023 c.442 §65]

Note: 526.127 (Forestry Natural Climate Solutions Fund) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 526 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 526.127 — Forestry Natural Climate Solutions Fund , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.826 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.826
526.826 Barring timber export violators from unprocessed public timber purchases
Status: in_force

A public agency may debar any person who violates any provision of ORS 526.801 (Definitions for ORS 526.801 to 526.831 and 526.992) to 526.831 (Contract cancellation for timber export violation) and 526.992 (Criminal and civil penalties for timber export violation) , or any rule adopted pursuant thereto, from entering into any contract for the purchase of unprocessed timber from public lands for a period of not more than five years. Such person shall also be precluded from taking delivery of public timber purchased by another party for the period of debarment. [1991 c.942 §10]

Source: Section 526.826 — Barring timber export violators from unprocessed public timber purchases , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.710 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.710
526.710 State Forestry Department to assist board
Status: in_force

To assist the State Board of Forestry in carrying out the duties of the Forest Resource Trust, the State Forestry Department shall:

(1) Identify potentially suitable lands, and educate the owners of those lands on Forest Resource Trust programs.

(2) Provide technical and other management assistance to participating landowners.

(3) Monitor compliance with Forest Resource Trust programs by participating landowners.

(4) Encourage involvement of the landowner.

(5) Encourage the use of private contractors, consultants, forestry extension programs, nongovernmental organizations and landowner cooperatives.

(6) Develop project plans in cooperation with landowners that establish clear benchmarks for compliance with terms of the plan.

(7) Release from financial obligation for any portion of the qualified private and local government forestlands included under Forest Resource Trust programs and irretrievably lost to insects, disease, fire, storm, flood or other natural destruction through no fault of the landowner.

(8) Secure provisions for access to the land by the State Forester.

(9) Give consideration to conservation plans or strategies adopted by the State Department of Fish and Wildlife when setting priorities for Forest Resource Trust programs. [1993 c.765 §59; 2007 c.201 §4]

Source: Section 526.710 — State Forestry Department to assist board , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.130 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.130
530.130 Issuance of revenue bonds to acquire lands
Status: in_force

(1) In compliance with the applicable provisions of ORS chapter 286A, the State Board of Forestry may request the State Treasurer to issue the revenue bonds described in ORS 530.140 (Forest development revenue bonds) to acquire any lands as provided in ORS 530.010 (State Board of Forestry authorized to acquire lands) and to sell revenue bonds under ORS 530.140 (Forest development revenue bonds) in the manner the State Treasurer deems advisable. The net proceeds derived from the sale of the revenue bonds, after the payment of bond-related costs, shall be paid into the State Treasury and credited to the State Forestry Department Account to be used exclusively for the purpose of acquiring lands as provided by ORS 530.010 (State Board of Forestry authorized to acquire lands) and 530.025 (Interests in acquired lands) . The State Forestry Department may establish one or more subaccounts, as it determines are desirable for administration of the net proceeds, in the State Forestry Department Account.

(2) Subject to any management plan adopted under ORS 526.905 (Management plans or policies to reduce risk of loss of forest resources) for the lands, the board may make covenants related to the operation, use and sale of, or revenues derived from, lands acquired with proceeds of the revenue bonds that the board determines after consultation with the State Treasurer to be necessary or desirable for repayment of the bonds.

(3) Any lands proposed to be acquired under subsection (1) of this section shall be appraised by the State Board of Forestry and the appraisal shall be approved by the Department of State Lands prior to the acquisition of the lands. [Amended by 1957 c.83 §15; 1959 c.209 §1; 1975 c.614 §17; 1981 c.660 §43; 2007 c.783 §213; 2009 c.831 §13]

Source: Section 530.130 — Issuance of revenue bonds to acquire lands , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.041 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.041
526.041 General duties of State Forester
Status: in_force

The forester, under the general supervision of the State Board of Forestry, shall:

(1) In compliance with ORS chapter 183, promulgate rules consistent with law for the enforcement of the state forest laws relating directly to the protection of forestland and the conservation of forest resources.

(2) Appoint and instruct fire wardens as provided in ORS chapter 477.

(3) Direct the improvement and protection of forestland owned by the State of Oregon.

(4) Collect data relative to forest conditions.

(5) Take action authorized by law to prevent and extinguish forest, brush and grass fires.

(6) Enforce all laws pertaining to forestland and prosecute violations of such laws.

(7) Cooperate with landowners, political subdivisions, private associations and agencies and others in forest protection.

(8) Advise and encourage reforestation.

(9) Publish such information on forestry as the forester determines to be in the public interest.

(10) Enter into contracts and cooperative agreements pertaining to experiments and research in forestry.

(11) Sell, exchange or otherwise dispose of any real property heretofore or hereafter acquired by the board for administrative purposes and no longer needed.

(12) Coordinate any activities of the State Forestry Department related to a watershed enhancement project approved by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board under ORS 541.932 (Watershed enhancement project assistance) with activities of other cooperating state and federal agencies participating in the project.

(13) Prescribe uniform state standards for certification of wildland fire training courses and educational programs.

(14) Serve as the Governor’s authorized representative for the purpose of initiating the fire management assistance declaration process with the Federal Emergency Management Agency and administering Federal Emergency Management Agency fire management assistance grants. [1965 c.253 §10 (enacted in lieu of 526.020); 1969 c.249 §2; 1975 c.605 §27; 1987 c.734 §13; 1993 c.415 §5; 1997 c.413 §5; 2003 c.539 §38; 2011 c.49 §2]

Source: Section 526.041 — General duties of State Forester; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 532.010 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 532 / Section 532.010
532.010 Definitions for ORS 532.010 to 532.140
Status: reserved

For purposes of ORS 532.010 (Definitions for ORS 532.010 to 532.140) to 532.140 (Prohibited acts relating to branding or marking if intended to injure or defraud) , unless the context or subject matter otherwise requires:

(1) “Booming equipment” includes boom sticks.

(2) “Brand” means an identifying mark upon forest products or booming equipment, as provided by rule and regulation of the State Forester; but any brands in use and registered with the Public Utility Commission on October 1, 1951, with the exception of those brands enclosed in the letter “C,” the use of which is particularly reserved for catch brands, may be continued in use, subject to the other provisions of ORS 532.010 (Definitions for ORS 532.010 to 532.140) to 532.140 (Prohibited acts relating to branding or marking if intended to injure or defraud) .

(3) “Catch brand” means a mark of brand used by a person as an identifying mark upon forest products and booming equipment previously owned by another.

(4) “Forest products” means any form, including but not limited to logs, poles and piles, into which a fallen tree may be cut before it undergoes manufacturing, but not including peeler cores.

(5) “Highway” means every street, alley, road, highway and thoroughfare in this state, used by the public or dedicated or appropriated to public use.

(6) “Motor vehicle” means any self-propelled or motor driven vehicle or any train or combination of vehicles used upon any highway in this state in transporting forest products.

(7) “Railroad” means any self-propelled vehicle or any train or combination of vehicles operating wholly on fixed rails or tracks.

(8) “Waters of this state” includes all bodies of fresh and salt water within the jurisdiction of the state capable of being used for the transportation of forest products, and all rivers and lakes and their tributaries, harbors, bays, sloughs and marshes. [Amended by 1961 c.253 §1]

Source: Section 532.010 — Definitions for ORS 532.010 to 532.140 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors532.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.220 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.220
530.220 Oregon Forest Rehabilitation Act
Status: in_force

ORS 530.210 (Definitions for ORS 530.210 to 530.280) to 530.280 (State Forestry General Obligation Bond Fund) shall be known as the Oregon Forest Rehabilitation Act.

Source: Section 530.220 — Oregon Forest Rehabilitation Act , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.655 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.655
526.655 Acceptance of grants, donations and gifts
Status: in_force

The Oregon Forest Resources Institute may accept grants, donations or gifts from any source for expenditures for any purposes consistent with the purposes of ORS 526.600 (Definitions for ORS 526.600 to 526.675) to 526.675 (Oregon Forest Resources Institute Fund) . All funds so received shall be handled as specified in ORS 526.600 (Definitions for ORS 526.600 to 526.675) to 526.675 (Oregon Forest Resources Institute Fund) for other moneys received by the institute. [1991 c.949 §14]

Source: Section 526.655 — Acceptance of grants, donations and gifts , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.650 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.650
527.650 Forest practice committees
Status: in_force

(1) The State Board of Forestry shall establish a forest practice committee for each forest region established pursuant to ORS 527.640 (Forest regions) . Each such committee shall consist of nine members, a majority of whom must reside in the region. Members of each committee shall be qualified by education or experience in natural resource management and not less than two-thirds of the members of each committee shall be private landowners, private timber owners or authorized representatives of such landowners or timber owners who regularly engage in operations.

(2) Members of forest practice committees shall be appointed by the board for three-year terms. If there is a vacancy for any cause, the board shall make an appointment to become immediately effective for the unexpired term. Each such committee shall select a chairperson from among its members. A staff member of the State Forestry Department shall be designated by the State Forester to serve as the secretary, without voting power, for each such committee. [1971 c.316 §7; 2005 c.22 §377]

Source: Section 527.650 — Forest practice committees; members; qualifications; appointment; terms , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.992 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.992
527.992 Civil penalties
Status: in_force

(1) In addition to any other penalty provided by law, any person who fails to comply with any of the following may incur a civil penalty in the amount adopted under ORS 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) :

(a) The requirements of ORS 527.670 (Commencement of operations) , 527.672 (Aerial herbicide applications) , 527.676 (Leaving snags and downed logs in harvest type 2 or 3 units) , 527.740 (Harvest type 3 limitations) , 527.750 (Exceeding harvest type 3 size limitation) , 527.755 (Scenic highways) , 527.788 (Notice to State Forestry Department of proposed pesticide application) or 527.797 (Limitations on pesticide applications) .

(b) The terms or conditions of any order of the State Forester issued in accordance with ORS 527.680 (Violation by operator) .

(c) Any rule or standard of the State Board of Forestry adopted or issued pursuant to ORS 527.706 (Program of photogrammetric mapping) , 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) or 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) .

(d) Any term or condition of a written waiver, or prior approval granted by the State Forester pursuant to the rules adopted under ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) .

(2) Imposition or payment of a civil penalty under this section shall not be a bar to actions alleging trespass under ORS 105.810 (Treble damages for injury to or removal of produce, trees or shrubs) , nor to actions under ORS 161.635 (Fines for misdemeanors) or 161.655 (Fines for corporations) seeking to recover an amount based on the gain resulting from individual or corporate criminal violations. [1987 c.919 §24; 1995 s.s. c.3 §39i; 1996 c.9 §11; 2003 c.740 §6; 2015 c.833 §23; 2022 c.33 §49]

Note: The amendments to 527.992 (Civil penalties) by section 74, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, become operative only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 61 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (third note following 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ). 527.992 (Civil penalties) , as amended by section 74, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

527.992 (Civil penalties) . (1) In addition to any other penalty provided by law, any person who fails to comply with any of the following may incur a civil penalty in the amount adopted under ORS 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) :

(a) The requirements of ORS 527.670 (Commencement of operations) , 527.672 (Aerial herbicide applications) , 527.676 (Leaving snags and downed logs in harvest type 2 or 3 units) , 527.740 (Harvest type 3 limitations) , 527.750 (Exceeding harvest type 3 size limitation) or 527.755 (Scenic highways) .

(b) The terms or conditions of any order of the State Forester issued in accordance with ORS 527.680 (Violation by operator) .

(c) Any rule or standard of the State Board of Forestry adopted or issued pursuant to ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) .

(d) Any term or condition of a written waiver, or prior approval granted by the State Forester pursuant to the rules adopted under ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) .

Source: Section 527.992 — Civil penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.760 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.760
526.760 Priority
Status: in_force

(1) The lien on forest products and accounts receivable created by ORS 526.740 (Lien for moneys payable to trust by forestland owner) is valid and shall have priority over all other liens, security interests and encumbrances on the forest products and accounts receivable covered by the lien even though it does not create a lien on the land on which the forest products are growing, except that ad valorem taxes and duly perfected liens, security interests and encumbrances which were perfected prior to the filing of the notice of lien under ORS 526.745 (Notice of lien) shall have priority over a lien created under ORS 526.740 (Lien for moneys payable to trust by forestland owner) .

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, the lien upon forest products and accounts receivable created by ORS 526.740 (Lien for moneys payable to trust by forestland owner) shall survive the foreclosure of any land sale contract, mortgage, trust deed or other lien or encumbrance upon or security interest in the forest products or the forestland described in the notice of lien filed under ORS 526.745 (Notice of lien) , and shall remain in full force and effect until released, fully satisfied or foreclosed. [1995 c.207 §7]

Source: Section 526.760 — Priority; lien survives land foreclosure proceedings , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 532.100 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 532 / Section 532.100
532.100 Renewal and abandonment of marks or brands
Status: in_force

(1) The State Forester shall, each five-year period after October 1, 1951, notify the owners of all log marks or brands then of record in Oregon to renew them. Upon receipt of the fee provided for in ORS 532.110 (Fees) , the State Forester shall give a renewal certificate, which shall give the holder and owner the exclusive right to continue the use of the brand or mark within Oregon. If any owner of a brand or mark which is on record fails or refuses to pay the renewing fee within three months after notification, such brand shall become forfeited and be no longer carried on the records.

(2) On or after January 1, 1952, no person shall claim or own any log mark or brand which has not been renewed in accordance with the provisions of this section, and any failure to renew the log mark or brand as required by such provisions shall be deemed an abandonment of the same. Any other person shall be at liberty to adopt or use the abandoned mark or brand; but the other person shall not claim or use it until after it has been recorded in the other person’s own name, in the manner provided in ORS 532.010 (Definitions for ORS 532.010 to 532.140) to 532.140 (Prohibited acts relating to branding or marking if intended to injure or defraud) . However, no abandoned or canceled brand may be reissued for a period of one year after such abandonment or cancellation, except to the previous owner or the assignee of the previous owner. In case of a dispute as to the right of any person to the use of such mark or brand, the State Forester shall determine which of the applicants is entitled to its use. [Amended by 1957 c.127 §1]

Source: Section 532.100 — Renewal and abandonment of marks or brands; reissue of abandoned or canceled brand , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors532.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.990 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.990
526.990 Criminal penalty for rule violation
Status: in_force

Violation of any rule promulgated under ORS 526.041 (General duties of State Forester) (1) is, upon conviction, punishable as a misdemeanor. [1969 c.249 §4]

Source: Section 526.990 — Criminal penalty for rule violation , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.131 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.131
526.131 Purchase or acceptance of federal surplus property
Status: in_force

Subject to the allotment provisions of ORS 291.238 (Expenditures without allotment prohibited) , the State Forester and State Board of Forestry hereby are authorized to purchase or accept excess and surplus property from the United States. [Formerly 526.080]

Source: Section 526.131 — Purchase or acceptance of federal surplus property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 532.990 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 532 / Section 532.990
532.990 Penalties
Status: in_force

(1) Violation of any of the provisions of ORS 532.130 (Prohibitions generally) is a Class B misdemeanor.

(2) Violation of any of the provisions of ORS 532.140 (Prohibited acts relating to branding or marking if intended to injure or defraud) is a Class C felony. [Subsection (3) enacted as 1957 c.668 §22; 1983 c.89 §16; 1987 c.320 §238; 1993 c.47 §3; 2011 c.597 §224]

Source: Section 532.990 — Penalties , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors532.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.900 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.900
526.900 Review of state regulations and policies affecting implementation of conservation strategies
Status: in_force

(1) The State Forestry Department and the State Department of Agriculture shall, in consultation with relevant state agencies and other public or private organizations, review state statutes, rules, policies and programs that affect landowner decisions to implement conservation strategies.

(2) The review conducted under subsection (1) of this section shall include:

(a) Establishing a statewide strategy for the implementation and coordination of incentives, regulatory disincentives, expedited permit processes and related taxes.

(b) The development of a stewardship agreement program for rural lands that establishes a baseline management standard for landowners and a voluntary higher standard that provides natural resource benefits and regulatory certainty for landowners. [2001 c.708 §17]

Note: 526.900 (Review of state regulations and policies affecting implementation of conservation strategies) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 526 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Source: Section 526.900 — Review of state regulations and policies affecting implementation of conservation strategies , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.905 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.905
526.905 Management plans or policies to reduce risk of loss of forest resources
Status: repealed

(1) Pursuant to its authority to improve the efficient and effective use of state resources, the Oregon Department of Administrative Services shall coordinate with the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, the State Parks and Recreation Department, the State Forestry Department, the Department of State Lands and any other state agency that has oversight responsibilities for state forestlands to adopt forest management plans or policies that:

(a) Establish forest health programs and management strategies designed to reduce the risk of catastrophic loss of forest resources from disease and insect infestation.

(b) Establish goals and strategies for managing forest fuel accumulation in order to reduce the risk of catastrophic fires in areas historically subject to frequent, periodic fires.

(2) To the extent that a state agency with oversight responsibilities for state forestlands has, as of January 1, 2004, policies, approved forest management plans or other strategies designed to address forest health and forest fuels management, those policies, plans and strategies may be incorporated into the plans and policies developed by the Oregon Department of Administrative Services.

(3) The Oregon Department of Administrative Services may develop forest fuel reduction and forest health restoration projects that may be implemented by state agencies. Such projects may include procedures for:

(a) Identifying forests that are at high risk of loss due to fuel accumulation, disease or insect infestation.

(b) Cooperating with local governments to identify locations where the urban-forest interface poses the greatest risk of contributing to damage or loss during a fire.

(c) Establishing priority areas for the projects due to natural, economic or scenic values. [2003 c.424 §1]

Note: 526.905 (Management plans or policies to reduce risk of loss of forest resources) was enacted into law by the Legislative Assembly but was not added to or made a part of ORS chapter 526 or any series therein by legislative action. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.

Note: Sections 14 to 17, chapter 611, Oregon Laws 2023, provide:

:BF8.(Prescribed Fire Liability Pilot Program)

Sec. 14. (1) As used in this section:

(a) “Cultural burn” means the intentional application of fire to land by an Indian tribe or cultural fire practitioner to achieve cultural goals or objectives identified by a tribal ordinance, traditional tribal custom or law of an Indian tribe, such as subsistence, ceremonial activities, biodiversity or other benefits.

(b) “Cultural fire practitioner” means a person associated with an Indian tribe with experience in burning to meet cultural goals or objectives, including subsistence, ceremonial activities, biodiversity or other benefits.

(c) “Indian tribe” means a federally recognized Indian tribe in Oregon.

(2) The State Forestry Department shall establish a Prescribed Fire Liability Pilot Program and administer the program.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, the Department of Consumer and Business Services shall administer reimbursements for claims under the program.

(4) The program must be administered to:

(a) Increase the pace and scale of the use of prescribed fire and cultural burning.

(b) Reduce barriers for conducting prescribed fires and cultural burning.

(c) Support coverage for losses from prescribed fires and cultural burning by nonpublic entities such as cultural fire practitioners, private landowners, nongovernmental entities, Certified Burn Managers as defined in ORS 526.005 (Definitions) , companies, contractors and operators.

(d) Support nonpublic entities, such as cultural fire practitioners, private landowners, nongovernmental entities, Certified Burn Managers, companies, contractors and operators, that are alleged to have caused damages resulting from prescribed fires or cultural burning.

(5) Under the program, the Department of Consumer and Business Services may reimburse claims related to:

(a) A prescribed fire conducted or supervised by the State Forester, a forest protective association or a rangeland protection association, pursuant to ORS 477.315 (Definitions for ORS 477.315 to 477.325) to 477.325 (Budget for rangeland protection) .

(b) A prescribed fire in a forest protection district, as described in ORS 477.205 (Definitions for ORS 477.205 to 477.281) to 477.281 (Limitation on obligation of landowner for fire protection) , that is conducted or supervised by a Certified Burn Manager pursuant to ORS 526.360 (Assistance with developing lands) .

(c) A cultural burn conducted or supervised by a cultural fire practitioner.

(6) The Department of Consumer and Business Services may only reimburse a claim for recoverable damages, as described in ORS 477.089 (Recovery for property damage) (2), or for actual costs, as described in ORS 477.068 (Liability for cost of abatement) , subject to the provisions of ORS 477.120 (Liability of owner or operator) , if:

(a) The State Forester, a forest protective association, a rangeland protection association or a Certified Burn Manager reviewed and approved a burn plan before the prescribed fire or cultural burning;

(b) Any necessary permit was obtained before the prescribed fire or cultural burning was conducted;

(c) The prescribed fire or cultural burning complied with any requirements under a burn plan or permit;

(d) The claim was submitted to the Department of Consumer and Business Services not more than 60 days after an incident report was completed or as specified by rule by the State Forestry Department; and

(e) The State Forestry Department has certified that the claim satisfies the requirements of paragraphs (a) to (d) of this subsection.

(7) The limitations imposed by ORS 30.271 (Limitations on liability of state for personal injury and death) apply to claims under this section for losses arising from a prescribed fire or cultural burn.

(8) The State Forestry Department:

(a) Shall consult with other relevant state agencies, cultural fire practitioners, the State Forester, forest protective associations, rangeland protection associations and Certified Burn Managers to establish guidelines for the program.

(b) Shall adopt the guidelines by rule.

(c) Shall make the guidelines publicly available on a department website.

(d) Notwithstanding subsection (3) of this section, shall adopt rules to determine how claims under the program will be accepted and processed.

(e) Shall adopt by rule a definition of the term “prescribed fire” for purposes of implementing this section.

(f) Shall adopt rules establishing requirements for incident reports for prescribed fires and cultural burning.

(g) May adopt rules imposing requirements for eligibility for reimbursement of a claim under this section that are in addition to eligibility requirements described in subsection (6) of this section.

(9) A person who interacts with an Indian tribe or cultural fire practitioner pursuant to this section shall respect tribal sovereignty, customs and culture.

(10) Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the state’s liability for all claims under this section and the guidelines developed by the State Forestry Department pursuant to subsection (8) of this section, shall be limited as described in this section and to the amount in the Prescribed Fire Claims Fund established by section 15 of this 2023 Act.

(11) The provisions of ORS 183.310 (Definitions for chapter) to 183.497 (Awarding costs and attorney fees when finding for petitioner) do not apply to rules adopted under this section.

(12) This section does not undermine or diminish the exercise of tribal sovereignty. [2023 c.611 §14]

Sec. 15. (1) There is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund, the Prescribed Fire Claims Fund. Interest earned by the fund shall be credited to the fund. All moneys in the fund are continuously appropriated to the Department of Consumer and Business Services for the program described in section 14 of this 2023 Act.

(2) The fund shall consist of all moneys credited to the fund, including moneys appropriated or transferred to the fund by the Legislative Assembly.

(3) If the department authorizes the Oregon Insurance Guaranty Association to administer the program, the department shall distribute moneys in the fund to the association as necessary for the program. [2023 c.611 §15]

Sec. 16. (1) Sections 14 and 15 of this 2023 Act are repealed on January 2, 2028.

(2) Forty-five days before the date specified in subsection (1) of this section, the Department of Consumer and Business Services and the State Forestry Department shall determine the number of claims certified by the State Forestry Department pursuant to section 14 (6)(e) of this 2023 Act that have not been processed.

(3) Any moneys in the Prescribed Fire Claims Fund that are unexpended and unobligated on the date of the repeal of sections 14 and 15 of this 2023 Act by subsection (1) of this section shall revert to the General Fund.

(4) The Department of Consumer and Business Services shall determine the amount of unexpended and unobligated moneys described in subsection (3) of this section, based on the amount remaining in the fund and the number of claims described in subsection (2) of this section. [2023 c.611 §16]

Sec. 17. (1) On or before April 1, 2028, in consultation with the Department of Consumer and Business Services, the State Forestry Department shall report to the Governor and to a committee or interim committee of the Legislative Assembly related to natural resources, in the manner prescribed in ORS 192.245 (Form of report to legislature) , on the performance of the Prescribed Fire Liability Pilot Program described in section 14 of this 2023 Act.

(2) The report must include:

(a) The number of claims that were processed after the program was established and before the date of the report.

(b) The total costs of claims paid.

(c) A reference to an incident report for each claim processed or paid after the program was established and before the date of the report.

(d) Recommendations for revising the program and improving administration of the program if sections 14 and 15 of this 2023 Act are not repealed on January 2, 2028, pursuant to section 16 of this 2023 Act. [2023 c.611 §17]

Source: Section 526.905 — Management plans or policies to reduce risk of loss of forest resources , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.450 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.450
530.450 Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest
Status: in_force

Any lands in the national forests on February 25, 1913, selected by, and patented to, the State of Oregon, for the purpose of establishing a state forest, hereby are withdrawn from sale except as provided in ORS 530.510 (Exchanges of land) . The state forest shall be known as the Elliott State Forest. [1957 c.240 §1]

Note: The amendments to 530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) by section 25, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, become operative on January 1, 2024, only if certain conditions are met on or before December 31, 2023. See section 31, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, as amended by section 1, chapter 225, Oregon Laws 2023 (third note following 530.520 (Use of receipts) ). 530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) , as amended by section 25, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) . Any lands in the national forests on February 25, 1913, selected by, and patented to, the State of Oregon, for the purpose of establishing a state forest, hereby are withdrawn from sale except as provided in section 14, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022. The state forest formerly known as the Elliott State Forest shall be known as the Elliott State Research Forest and managed as described in sections 1 to 21, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022.

Note: Section 24, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, becomes operative on January 1, 2024, only if certain conditions are met on or before December 31, 2023. See section 31, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, as amended by section 1, chapter 225, Oregon Laws 2023 (third note following 530.520 (Use of receipts) ). Section 24, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, provides:

Sec. 24. ORS 530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) is added to and made a part of sections 1 to 21 of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.89 §24]

Source: Section 530.450 — Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.770 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.770
526.770 Notice of forest products harvest
Status: in_force

(1) No harvest or removal of forest products on forestland covered by a contract between the forest landowner and the Forest Resource Trust shall occur without the landowner or the timber owner first notifying the State Forester in writing, on forms prepared by the State Forester, of intent to harvest or remove forest products. Notice shall be made in the same manner as notice provided under ORS 527.670 (Commencement of operations) (6).

(2) The notification shall specify where and when the harvest or removal of forest products will take place, the nature of the harvest or removal of forest products and where and to whom the forest products will be sold or delivered and shall include maps or other information as required by the State Forester. Upon receipt of notification pursuant to subsection (1) of this section, the State Forester shall notify the landowner, and any person to whom the forest products will be sold or delivered, of the repayment obligation specified in any contract between the forest landowner and the State Forester. The landowner shall make payment to the State Forester. Such payment shall be deposited in the Forest Resource Trust Fund. If payment is not made within 60 days of harvest or removal of forest products, the lien shall be delinquent and may be foreclosed in the manner described in ORS 526.755 (Foreclosure) . [1995 c.207 §9]

Source: Section 526.770 — Notice of forest products harvest; contents; forest products purchasers , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.341 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.341
527.341 Forestland owners to implement strategies to carry out resource management objectives
Status: in_force

Every owner of forestlands or timber shall implement prevention and suppression strategies to meet their own forest resource management objectives. [1991 c.686 §5]

Source: Section 527.341 — Forestland owners to implement strategies to carry out resource management objectives , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.090 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.090
526.090 Acceptance and use of moneys under Agricultural Act of 1956 (soil bank and reforestation provisions)
Status: in_force

The forester, under the supervision and direction of the State Board of Forestry, may receive moneys from the federal government in connection with cooperative work and programs set out in the Agricultural Act of 1956, as amended (Public Law 84-540, 70 Stat. 188), particularly the provisions of Title I (7 U.S.C. 1801 to 1837) and Title IV (16 U.S.C. 568e to 568g), and Acts amendatory thereof and supplemental or complementary thereto. [1957 c.83 §4; 1965 c.253 §14]

Source: Section 526.090 — Acceptance and use of moneys under Agricultural Act of 1956 (soil bank and reforestation provisions) , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.046 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.046
526.046 State Forester to cooperate with other agencies and persons
Status: in_force

(1) Under the direction of the State Board of Forestry, the forester:

(a) Shall, upon request, and whenever the forester deems that it is in the public interest, assist and cooperate with any federal or state department or any institution, political subdivision or person owning or controlling forestland within this state, in the preparation of plans for their protection, management, replacement or extension. Unless otherwise provided by law, the parties obtaining such assistance shall pay the necessary costs of travel, subsistence and other field expenses incurred by the forester or the assistants of the forester in the preparation and execution of these plans.

(b) May enter into contracts with the applicants under which the forester will supervise the execution of the plans. However, the costs of carrying out the plans shall be paid by the applicants.

(2) In carrying out this section the forester may require the applicant to deposit in one or more installments the moneys needed to cover the cost of preparing and executing the plans. These deposits shall be placed in the State Treasury, credited to the State Forestry Department Account and used exclusively for the purposes of this section. [Formerly 526.030]

Source: Section 526.046 — State Forester to cooperate with other agencies and persons; contracts for supervision; costs , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.732 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.732
527.732 Adaptive Management Program Committee
Status: repealed

(1) The Adaptive Management Program Committee is established as an advisory committee to the State Board of Forestry.

(2) The committee shall consist of 10 voting members and up to three nonvoting members.

(3) The board shall select a voting member from among two candidates recommended by each of the following 10 entities:

(a) The Oregon Forest and Industries Council.

(b) The Coalition of Oregon Land Trusts.

(c) The Associated Oregon Loggers.

(d) A conservation organization collectively selected by Beyond Toxics, Cascadia Wildlands, Klamath Siskiyou Wildlands Center, Oregon League of Conservation Voters, Oregon Stream Protection Coalition, Oregon Wild, Portland Audubon and Umpqua Watersheds, which were parties to the Private Forest Accord Report dated February 2, 2022, and published by the State Forestry Department on February 7, 2022.

(e) The Oregon Small Woodlands Association.

(f) The Commission on Indian Services.

(g) A recreational or commercial angling organization collectively selected by Northwest Guides and Anglers Association, Pacific Coast Federation of Fishermen’s Associations, Trout Unlimited and Wild Salmon Center, which were parties to the Private Forest Accord Report.

(h) The Association of Oregon Counties.

(i) The State Department of Fish and Wildlife.

(j) The Department of Environmental Quality.

(4) If an entity described in subsection (3) of this section ceases to exist, the board shall determine a successor entity that represents the same interests.

(5) The board shall:

(a) Select one representative of the State Forestry Department to serve as a nonvoting member.

(b) Invite one representative of the National Marine Fisheries Service and one representative of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service to serve on the committee as nonvoting members.

(6) The voting members and the nonvoting member described in subsection (5)(a) of this section shall serve for terms of four years and may serve an unlimited number of terms.

(7) The committee shall:

(a) Guide the adaptive management process.

(b) Set the research agenda of the Independent Research and Science Team established in ORS 527.733 (Independent Research and Science Team) and recommend to the board the team’s budget.

(c) Assess the scientific findings in a report prepared by the team and prepare a report that identifies alternative actions, including no action, to address resource issues identified in the team’s report.

(d) Submit the committee’s reports to the board.

(e) Assist the board in the ongoing process of identifying and modifying resource objectives.

(f) Review reports related to compliance monitoring and enforcement.

(g) Submit recommendations to the board concerning rule adjustment, guidance or training.

(h) Strive for full consensus in committee decision-making.

(8) Notwithstanding subsection (7)(h) of this section, the committee shall make substantial decisions by a vote of at least seven voting members.

(9) Committee members are not eligible for compensation or reimbursement for expenses. If an organization represented by a committee member requests a participation grant to compensate for the organizational resources the organization dedicated to supporting the committee member’s service on the committee, subject to available funding, the board shall award the participation grant in an amount determined by the board.

(10) The board shall adopt rules describing a process for awarding participation grants described in subsection (9) of this section. [2022 c.33 §36]

Note: 527.732 (Adaptive Management Program Committee) is repealed only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 60 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (third note following 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ).

Note: Section 37, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, provides:

Sec. 37. (1) The State Board of Forestry shall appoint the first voting members of the Adaptive Management Program Committee on or before November 30, 2022.

(2) Notwithstanding section 36 (6) of this 2022 Act [ 527.732 (Adaptive Management Program Committee) (6)], of the voting members of the committee first appointed by the board:

(a) Two shall serve for terms ending one year after the date of appointment.

(b) Two shall serve for terms ending two years after the date of appointment.

(c) Three shall serve for terms ending three years after the date of appointment.

(3) The board shall appoint the first voting members of the Independent Research and Science Team from a list of candidates provided by the committee. [2022 c.33 §37]

Source: Section 527.732 — Adaptive Management Program Committee; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.350 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.350
526.350 Policy in administering forest and fire laws
Status: in_force

(1) All forest laws relating to forestland classified pursuant to ORS 526.328 (Hearing) or 526.340 (Classification by State Forester) , and all rules promulgated under such laws, shall be so administered as best to promote the primary use for which that land is classified. Any contract by the State Board of Forestry or the State Forester with any forest protective association or agency for the care of any such forestland shall provide that the care shall be in accord with the provisions of this section relating to that land.

(2) It shall be the policy of the board and the forester as to all forestland classified in:

(a) Class 1, to give primary consideration to timber production and reforestation, in preference to grazing or agricultural uses, not excluding, however, recreation needs or scenic values.

(b) Class 2, to give equal consideration and value to timber production and the development or maintenance of grazing, either as a temporary use for the interim between logging and reforestation or as a permanent or semipermanent joint use.

(c) Class 3, to give primary consideration to the development of grazing or agriculture, in preference to timber production.

(3) The forester, on forestland classified pursuant to ORS 526.328 (Hearing) or 526.340 (Classification by State Forester) , shall administer the forest laws of this state in accordance with the policy stated in this section as it applies to the land involved. [Amended by 1965 c.253 §41]

Source: Section 526.350 — Policy in administering forest and fire laws; contracts for care of forestland , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.480 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.480
530.480 Legal descriptions of lands
Status: reserved

As the Common School Forest Lands are determined as required by ORS 530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) to 530.520 (Use of receipts) , such lands shall be described by legal subdivision. The State Land Board and the State Board of Forestry, respectively in their regular meetings, shall by separate board resolutions designate and set aside such lands as a part of the Common School Forest Lands; lands in the Elliott State Forest, as determined by ORS 530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) , shall be similarly described and reserved. A copy of each board resolution certified by the Director of the Department of State Lands or the State Forester, respectively, together with the description of the lands involved, shall be filed with the Secretary of State, who shall keep such copies and descriptions in conjunction with the auditing records of the State Forestry Department Account. [1957 c.240 §4; 1969 c.594 §58]

Note: The amendments to 530.480 (Legal descriptions of lands) by section 26, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, become operative on January 1, 2024, only if certain conditions are met on or before December 31, 2023. See section 31, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, as amended by section 1, chapter 225, Oregon Laws 2023 (third note following 530.520 (Use of receipts) ). 530.480 (Legal descriptions of lands) , as amended by section 26, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

530.480 (Legal descriptions of lands) . As the Common School Forest Lands are determined as required by ORS 530.460 (Lands suited for growing forest products to be designated Common School Forest Lands and withdrawn from sale) to 530.520 (Use of receipts) , such lands shall be described by legal subdivision. The State Land Board and the State Board of Forestry, respectively in their regular meetings, shall by separate board resolutions designate and set aside such lands as a part of the Common School Forest Lands. A copy of each board resolution certified by the Director of the Department of State Lands or the State Forester, respectively, together with the description of the lands involved, shall be filed with the Secretary of State, who shall keep such copies and descriptions in conjunction with the auditing records of the State Forestry Department Account.

Source: Section 530.480 — Legal descriptions of lands; resolutions of State Land Board and State Board of Forestry , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.630 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.630
527.630 Policy
Status: in_force

(1) Forests make a vital contribution to Oregon by providing jobs, products, tax base and other social and economic benefits, by helping to maintain forest tree species, soil, air and water resources and by providing a habitat for wildlife and aquatic life. Therefore, it is declared to be the public policy of the State of Oregon to encourage economically efficient forest practices that ensure the continuous growing and harvesting of forest tree species and the maintenance of forestland for such purposes as the leading use on privately owned land, consistent with sound management of soil, air, water, fish and wildlife resources and scenic resources within visually sensitive corridors as provided in ORS 527.755 (Scenic highways) and to ensure the continuous benefits of those resources for future generations of Oregonians.

(2) It is recognized that operations on forestland are already subject to other laws and to regulations of other agencies which deal primarily with consequences of such operations rather than the manner in which operations are conducted. It is further recognized that it is essential to avoid uncertainty and confusion in enforcement and implementation of such laws and regulations and in planning and carrying out operations on forestlands.

(3) To encourage forest practices implementing the policy of ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) and 527.992 (Civil penalties) , it is declared to be in the public interest to vest in the State Board of Forestry exclusive authority to develop and enforce statewide and regional rules pursuant to ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) and to coordinate with other state agencies and local governments which are concerned with the forest environment.

(4) It is recognized that ensuring compliance with, and enforcing, ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) and rules and orders adopted or issued thereunder is essential to protect Oregon’s natural resources. It is further recognized that onsite inspections are necessary to further the policy of ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) and 527.992 (Civil penalties) .

(5) It is recognized that enforcement of the policy of ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) and 527.992 (Civil penalties) is necessary to support the integrity of the policy and give the public confidence that standards for forest practices are being followed. It is further recognized that an effective enforcement program must include:

(a) Adequate training and education of enforcement officers, operators, timber owners and landowners.

(b) Clear technical guidance.

(c) Implementation expectations that are transparent and easily understood by operators, timber owners and landowners.

(6) It is declared to be the policy of the State of Oregon that the program for implementing enforcement under ORS 527.680 (Violation by operator) , 527.683 (Notice of violation) , 527.685 (Civil penalty considerations) , 527.690 (Failure to comply with order to reforest or repair damage) and 527.700 (Appeals from orders of State Forester) be adequately funded, and that the board:

(a) Use inspections and enforcement as tools to deter future violations and to educate and train operators, timber owners and landowners.

(b) In exercising enforcement discretion, including discretion to impose penalties, prioritize addressing significant violations, other consequential violations and the actions of repeat violators.

(7) The board may adopt and enforce rules addressing scenic considerations only in accordance with ORS 527.755 (Scenic highways) .

(8) The board shall adopt and enforce forest practice rules to reduce the risk of serious bodily injury or death from a rapidly moving landslide only in accordance with ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) (10). As used in this subsection, “rapidly moving landslide” has the meaning given in ORS 195.250 (Definitions for ORS 195.250 to 195.260) .

(9) The State of Oregon should provide a stable regulatory environment to encourage investment in private forestlands. [1971 c.316 §4; 1987 c.919 §10; 1991 c.634 §4; 1991 c. 919 §10; 1995 s.s. c.3 §39L; 1996 c.9 §14; 1999 c.1103 §11; 2003 c.740 §9; 2022 c.33 §41]

Note: The amendments to 527.630 (Policy) by section 69, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, become operative only if certain conditions are met. See sections 54 and 61 to 64, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022 (third note following 527.711 (Private Forest Accord rule package) ). 527.630 (Policy) , as amended by section 69, chapter 33, Oregon Laws 2022, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

527.630 (Policy) . (1) Forests make a vital contribution to Oregon by providing jobs, products, tax base and other social and economic benefits, by helping to maintain forest tree species, soil, air and water resources and by providing a habitat for wildlife and aquatic life. Therefore, it is declared to be the public policy of the State of Oregon to encourage economically efficient forest practices that ensure the continuous growing and harvesting of forest tree species and the maintenance of forestland for such purposes as the leading use on privately owned land, consistent with sound management of soil, air, water, fish and wildlife resources and scenic resources within visually sensitive corridors as provided in ORS 527.755 (Scenic highways) and to ensure the continuous benefits of those resources for future generations of Oregonians.

(2) It is recognized that operations on forestland are already subject to other laws and to regulations of other agencies which deal primarily with consequences of such operations rather than the manner in which operations are conducted. It is further recognized that it is essential to avoid uncertainty and confusion in enforcement and implementation of such laws and regulations and in planning and carrying out operations on forestlands.

(3) To encourage forest practices implementing the policy of ORS 527.610 (Short title) to 527.770 (Good faith compliance with best management practices not violation of water quality standards) , 527.990 (Criminal penalties) and 527.992 (Civil penalties) , it is declared to be in the public interest to vest in the State Board of Forestry exclusive authority to develop and enforce statewide and regional rules pursuant to ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) and to coordinate with other state agencies and local governments which are concerned with the forest environment.

(4) The board may adopt and enforce rules addressing scenic considerations only in accordance with ORS 527.755 (Scenic highways) .

(5) The board shall adopt and enforce forest practice rules to reduce the risk of serious bodily injury or death from a rapidly moving landslide only in accordance with ORS 527.710 (Duties and powers of board) (10). As used in this subsection, “rapidly moving landslide” has the meaning given in ORS 195.250 (Definitions for ORS 195.250 to 195.260) .

(6) The State of Oregon should provide a stable regulatory environment to encourage investment in private forestlands.

Source: Section 527.630 — Policy; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.745 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.745
526.745 Notice of lien
Status: in_force

(1) The State Forester may file a notice of lien under ORS 526.740 (Lien for moneys payable to trust by forestland owner) anytime after the contract is executed.

(2) The State Forester shall file the notice of lien with the recording officer of the county or counties where the forestland is located. The notice shall be in writing verified by the State Forester and shall contain:

(a) The name of each owner of the forestland identified in the contract;

(b) A legal description of the forestland identified in the contract in conformance with ORS 93.600 (Description of real property for purposes of recordation) ;

(c) A description of the forest products to be covered by the lien;

(d) A statement that the lien includes a lien on accounts receivable from the sale of any forest products covered by the lien and that the lien on forest products and accounts receivable shall have priority as of the date of filing of the notice of lien under this section; and

(e) A statement of the amount of funds to be paid under the contract.

(3) Within 10 days after the State Forester files the notice of lien under this section, the State Forester shall send a copy of the notice to each of the following persons whose interest in the forestland referred to in subsection (2)(a) of this section is of record as of the date the State Forester files the notice of lien with the county recording officer:

(a) Each seller on a land sale contract covering all or any part of the forestland referred to in subsection (2)(a) of this section;

(b) Each mortgagee upon a mortgage covering all or part of the forestland referred to in subsection (2)(a) of this section; and

(c) Each beneficiary of a trust deed covering all or part of the forestland referred to in subsection (2)(a) of this section. [1995 c.207 §4]

Source: Section 526.745 — Notice of lien; filing , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 532.120 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 532 / Section 532.120
532.120 Disposition of fees
Status: in_force

All fees collected by the State Forester under ORS 532.010 (Definitions for ORS 532.010 to 532.140) to 532.140 (Prohibited acts relating to branding or marking if intended to injure or defraud) shall be paid into the State Treasury, credited to the State Forestry Department Account and available for expenses associated with ORS 532.010 (Definitions for ORS 532.010 to 532.140) to 532.140 (Prohibited acts relating to branding or marking if intended to injure or defraud) . [Amended by 1957 c.459 §5; 1961 c.253 §3; 1967 c.34 §6; 1989 c.767 §2]

Source: Section 532.120 — Disposition of fees , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors532.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.299 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.299
526.299 Organizer responsibility for compliance with permit terms and conditions
Status: in_force

An organizer may not recklessly allow a person to violate the terms and conditions of a large commercial event permit held by the organizer. As used in this section, “recklessly” has the meaning given that term in ORS 161.085 (Definitions with respect to culpability) . [2015 c.713 §6]

Note: See note under 526.287 (Definitions for ORS 526.287 to 526.299 and 526.991) .

Source: Section 526.299 — Organizer responsibility for compliance with permit terms and conditions , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 526.164 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 526 / Section 526.164
526.164 Exchange of property
Status: in_force

The State Board of Forestry may convey to any person all or parts of the real property described in ORS 526.166 (Acquisition of real property by purchase, agreement or donation) or 526.168 (Acquisition of real property by eminent domain) , in exchange for other property, real or personal, which, in the judgment of the board, is of equal or superior value for public use. [Formerly 526.174]

Source: Section 526.164 — Exchange of property , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors526.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.055 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.055
530.055 Leasing lands acquired
Status: in_force

Except as limited in this section but subject to separate sale of forest products under ORS 530.059 (Procedure for sales of forest products) , lands acquired under ORS 530.010 (State Board of Forestry authorized to acquire lands) to 530.040 (Exchange of forestland or timber) may be leased by the State Forester to any person when approved by the State Board of Forestry and for purposes deemed by the board to be more in the public interest than the purposes for which the land was acquired. [1965 c.128 §3]

Source: Section 530.055 — Leasing lands acquired , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 530.520 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 530 / Section 530.520
530.520 Use of receipts
Status: in_force

(1) Excepting receipts from the easements and leases designated in ORS 530.490 (Management, control and protection of Common School Forest Lands and Elliott State Forest) (3), all receipts from the Elliott State Forest and the Common School Forest Lands shall be paid into the Common School Fund and are continuously appropriated to the Department of State Lands for the purposes for which other moneys in the Common School Fund may be used and to reimburse the Common School Forest Revolving Fund as provided in subsection (2) of this section.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The Common School Forest Revolving Fund, in an amount not exceeding $300,000, is established as a fund, separate and distinct from the General Fund, in the State Treasury. Interest earned by the fund shall be credited to the fund. The revolving fund is continuously appropriated to the State Forester for the payment of administrative expenses incurred by the State Forester in the management, control and protection of the Elliott State Forest and the Common School Forest Lands and in processing the sale of forest products and the disposal of privileges under ORS 530.500 (Authority of State Forester in management, protection, utilization and conservation of lands and waters) . The revolving fund shall be reimbursed at least once each month by submission to the Department of State Lands of a claim for payment approved by the State Forester and payment of the claim to the revolving fund out of the Common School Fund, that payment representing a portion of receipts paid into the Common School Fund under subsection (1) of this section.

(b) As used in paragraph (a) of this subsection, “administrative expenses” means a classification of expenses incurred by the State Forester in performing functions referred to in paragraph (a) of this subsection as a whole, rather than expenses incurred in performing any specific function that is a part of the whole; and it means expenditures recognized as operating costs of a current or past period, including refund of overpayments in the sale of forest products, and capital expenditures for buildings, furniture, fixtures or equipment.

(3) After the end of each six-month period the State Forester shall submit to the Department of State Lands a statement of capital asset account balances as of the end of that period for buildings, furniture, fixtures and equipment held by the State Forester in performing functions referred to in subsection (2)(a) of this section and in which the Common School Fund has a vested interest, showing the amount of that interest. [1957 c.240 §7; 1967 c.421 §203; 1975 c.614 §19; 1977 c.167 §1; 1989 c.966 §59]

Note: The amendments to 530.520 (Use of receipts) by section 29, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, become operative on January 1, 2024, only if certain conditions are met on or before December 31, 2023. See section 31, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, as amended by section 1, chapter 225, Oregon Laws 2023 (third note below). 530.520 (Use of receipts) , as amended by section 29, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, is set forth for the user’s convenience.

530.520 (Use of receipts) . (1) Excepting receipts from the easements and leases designated in ORS 530.490 (Management, control and protection of Common School Forest Lands and Elliott State Forest) (3), all receipts from the Common School Forest Lands shall be paid into the Common School Fund and are continuously appropriated to the Department of State Lands for the purposes for which other moneys in the Common School Fund may be used and to reimburse the Common School Forest Revolving Fund as provided in subsection (2) of this section.

(2) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) The Common School Forest Revolving Fund, in an amount not exceeding $300,000, is established as a fund, separate and distinct from the General Fund, in the State Treasury. Interest earned by the fund shall be credited to the fund. The revolving fund is continuously appropriated to the State Forester for the payment of administrative expenses incurred by the State Forester in the management, control and protection of the Common School Forest Lands and in processing the sale of forest products and the disposal of privileges under ORS 530.500 (Authority of State Forester in management, protection, utilization and conservation of lands and waters) . The revolving fund shall be reimbursed at least once each month by submission to the Department of State Lands of a claim for payment approved by the State Forester and payment of the claim to the revolving fund out of the Common School Fund, that payment representing a portion of receipts paid into the Common School Fund under subsection (1) of this section.

(b) As used in paragraph (a) of this subsection, “administrative expenses” means a classification of expenses incurred by the State Forester in performing functions referred to in paragraph (a) of this subsection as a whole, rather than expenses incurred in performing any specific function that is a part of the whole; and it means expenditures recognized as operating costs of a current or past period, including refund of overpayments in the sale of forest products, and capital expenditures for buildings, furniture, fixtures or equipment.

(3) After the end of each six-month period the State Forester shall submit to the Department of State Lands a statement of capital asset account balances as of the end of that period for buildings, furniture, fixtures and equipment held by the State Forester in performing functions referred to in subsection (2)(a) of this section and in which the Common School Fund has a vested interest, showing the amount of that interest.

Note: Sections 1 to 21, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, provide:

Sec. 1. Definitions. As used in sections 1 to 21 of this 2022 Act, “forest management plan” means a forest management plan that:

(1) Furthers the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(2) Includes a cover map, basic forest stand description data, treatment opportunities, management objectives and a schedule for implementing the forest management plan. [2022 c.89 §1]

Sec. 2. Management of Elliott State Research Forest. (1) The Elliott State Research Forest shall consist of lands determined by a resolution of the State Land Board, as modified by any subsequent expansion or exchange of lands authorized by section 14 of this 2022 Act.

(2) The mission of establishing the Elliott State Research Forest is to create an enduring, publicly owned, world-class research forest that:

(a) Advances and supports forest health, climate resilience, carbon sequestration, biodiversity, recovery of imperiled species, water quality and quantity, recreational opportunities and local economies.

(b) Is managed to promote collaboration, partnerships, inclusive public processes and equity, consistent with:

(A) Sections 1 to 21 of this 2022 Act;

(B) The applicable habitat conservation plan approved pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205, 16 U.S.C. 1531 to 1544);

(C) A forest management plan approved by the State Land Board; and

(D) The applicable version of Oregon State University’s Elliott State Research Forest Proposal described in section 4 of this 2022 Act.

(3) The management policies for the forest are to:

(a) Further the mission described in subsection (2) of this section.

(b) Support scientific inquiry by Oregon State University or the entity contracted to implement forest management operations as described in section 7 (1)(a) of this 2022 Act.

(c) Allow public access for recreational and educational purposes that is compatible with scientific and conservation purposes and the mission and management policies described in this section.

(d) Advance long-term, operational-scale research, in partnership with the university, on issues including forest management practices, ecosystem function, biodiversity, habitat conservation, water quality and quantity, carbon sequestration, rural livelihoods and the resilience of forests to the impacts of climate change.

(e) Support rural economies through active forest management, timber harvest, recreation and research.

(f) Promote opportunities at all education levels to interact with the forest and advance public understanding of the ecological, economic and social benefits of healthy forest ecosystems.

(g) Seek active partnerships with tribal governments to:

(A) Research and demonstrate traditional and contemporary tribal cultural practices and ecological knowledge related to forest management.

(B) Provide opportunities for tribal governments and tribal members to harvest traditional forest products and engage in traditional tribal cultural practices related to the forest.

(C) Consult on potential impacts on natural, cultural and traditional resources in the forest.

(h) Maintain a financially self-sufficient forest management entity capable of operating and overseeing the forest and necessary infrastructure.

(i) Prioritize collaborative partnerships that recognize both the local and statewide values the forest provides.

(j) Maintain a high level of public accountability and transparency in forest management decisions and operations.

(k) Advance equity and inclusion in all aspects of forest management and operations.

(4) The Elliott State Research Forest Authority shall administer the forest. [2022 c.89 §2]

Sec. 3. Notwithstanding the operative date specified in section 31 (1)(a) of this 2022 Act [January 1, 2024], the State Land Board shall first determine the lands constituting the Elliott State Research Forest by resolution, as described in section 2 (1) of this 2022 Act, before the operative date specified in section 31 (1)(a) of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.89 §3]

Sec. 4. Oregon State University Elliott State Research Forest Proposal. (1) The Legislative Assembly finds and declares that Oregon State University’s Elliott State Research Forest Proposal was accepted by the State Land Board in December 2020 and amended in April 2021.

(2) The university:

(a) May, after receiving input and approval from the State Land Board and approval from the board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority, further amend the proposal described in subsection (1) of this section.

(b) Shall make the current version of the proposal publicly available on a university website. [2022 c.89 §4]

Sec. 5. Elliott State Research Forest Authority; board of directors. (1) For the purpose of providing for the administration of the Elliott State Research Forest in a manner consistent with the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act, there is created the Elliott State Research Forest Authority, as a state agency independent from the Department of State Lands.

(2) The authority shall be governed by a board of directors consisting of seven or nine voting members and the Dean of the College of Forestry at Oregon State University, who shall be a nonvoting member.

(3) The State Land Board shall:

(a) Appoint the voting members for terms of four years and for not more than two consecutive terms.

(b) Fill any vacancy among the voting members by appointing a voting member to serve the remainder of the unexpired term.

(c) Consult with, and consider input from, the university and the existing board of directors when determining whom to appoint to the board of directors.

(d) Endeavor to appoint members who have a full complement of relevant experience or expertise in subjects related to the mission and management policies and operations of the forest and demonstrated interest in the success of the mission and management policies of the forest.

(4) Members of the board of directors are not entitled to compensation but may receive their actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties. [2022 c.89 §5]

Sec. 6. (1) On or before September 1, 2023, the Director of the Department of State Lands, the Elliott State Research Forest Advisory Committee formed by the Department of State Lands and Oregon State University shall develop a list of candidates for appointment as the first voting members of the board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority.

(2) As soon as practicable after the operative date specified in section 31 (1)(a) of this 2022 Act [January 1, 2024], the State Land Board shall appoint the first voting members of the board of directors from the list of candidates described in subsection (1) of this section.

(3) Notwithstanding section 5 (3)(a) of this 2022 Act:

(a) Of the voting members first appointed by the State Land Board under subsection (2) of this section:

(A) Two shall serve for a term ending one year after the date of the appointment.

(B) Two shall serve for a term ending two years after the date of the appointment.

(C) Two shall serve for a term ending three years after the date of the appointment.

(b) A voting member serving a term described in this subsection may be appointed to serve two additional consecutive terms. [2022 c.89 §6]

Sec. 7. Powers and duties of board of directors. (1) The board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority shall:

(a) Contract with Oregon State University for implementation of forest management operations consistent with the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act and a biennial operations plan, unless implementation of forest management operations is provided for as otherwise agreed to by the State Land Board, the board of directors and the university.

(b) Ensure that the mission and management policies for the Elliott State Research Forest described in section 2 of this 2022 Act are effectively implemented.

(c) Oversee the operational and fiscal integrity of the authority.

(d) Select an executive director of the authority, for which position the board of directors and the university shall work collaboratively to recruit and nominate candidates in a selection process led by the university.

(e) Oversee the activities of, and determine the delegation of responsibilities to, the executive director.

(f) Determine the scope of biennial operations plans.

(g) Provide input, guidance and direction to the executive director concerning implementation of operations and research programs, consistent with the mission and management policies for the forest described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(h) Promote transparency and public participation in decision-making by:

(A) Notwithstanding the timeframe for public notice required by ORS 192.640 (Public notice required) (1), and subject to the provisions of ORS 192.660 (Executive sessions permitted on certain matters) , providing public notice as described in ORS 192.640 (Public notice required) (1) of the time, location and agendas for a regular meeting of the board of directors at least seven days before the meeting.

(B) Providing at least 24 hours’ notice before a special meeting as described in ORS 192.640 (Public notice required) (3).

(C) Ensuring that any written materials being considered by the board of directors at a regular meeting are available to the public at least seven days before the meeting.

(D) Providing opportunities for public comment on agenda items requiring action by the board of directors before the board of directors acts on the agenda items.

(E) Ensuring that copies of written public comments are distributed to members of the board of directors before the board of directors acts.

(F) Providing to the State Land Board and the public, 45 days before the board of directors approves or denies a biennial operations plan, written materials related to the biennial operations plan that contain operational details and guidance sufficient to ensure compliance with relevant management direction described in the applicable forest management plan and habitat conservation plan.

(i) After considering public comments described in paragraph (h) of this subsection, approve or deny:

(A) Annual budgets.

(B) Biennial operations reports.

(C) Biennial operations plans. A biennial operations plan must be consistent with an applicable forest management plan.

(D) Recreation plans. A recreation plan must be consistent with an applicable forest management plan and the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(E) Education plans. An education plan must be consistent with an applicable forest management plan and the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(F) A forest management plan applicable to lands in the forest, and any subsequent amendments to the forest management plan, after receiving input and approval from the State Land Board. The forest management plan or amendments must be consistent with the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act and the applicable version of the university’s Elliott State Research Forest Proposal described in section 4 of this 2022 Act.

(G) Any sale of carbon credits or entry into easements or other encumbrances of lands in the forest.

(H) Any expansion or exchange of lands in the forest, after receiving input and approval from the State Land Board.

(I) Any amendments to a habitat conservation plan related to the forest, after receiving input and approval from the State Land Board. The amendments must be consistent with the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(J) Any proposed amendments to the university’s Elliott State Research Forest Proposal described in section 4 of this 2022 Act. The amendments must be consistent with the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(K) Any other submission to federal or state agencies that relates to the forest.

(L) Any funding requests made to federal or state agencies or the Legislative Assembly, including any request for issuance of revenue bonds described in section 17 of this 2022 Act or certificates of participation financing described in section 23 of this 2022 Act, or any request related to state-funded debt service.

(j) Submit to the State Land Board biennial programmatic reviews of authority operations that address:

(A) Functions of the authority relating to the mission and management policies for the forest, including the fiscal integrity of the authority and the status of forest operations, research initiatives, tribal partnerships, ties with local and regional economies and ongoing implementation of conservation, recreation and education programs.

(B) Compliance with federal and state regulatory requirements and any policy directives from the executive branch.

(k) Conduct at least six business meetings per year for which public participation is facilitated consistent with paragraph (h) of this subsection.

(L) Promote transparency around decisions concerning the forest, including forums to provide input.

(m) Form advisory bodies or subcommittees as the board of directors deems necessary and appropriate.

(2) As part of a funding request described in subsection (1)(i)(L) of this section, the board of directors may request funding for state-funded debt service. Any moneys requested pursuant to this subsection and appropriated by the Legislative Assembly to pay debt service for state bonds must be held by the State Treasurer pursuant to an agreement entered into by the State Treasurer and the board of directors.

(3) The board of directors constitutes the governing body of the authority for purposes of the public meetings laws set forth in ORS 192.610 (Definitions for ORS 192.610 to 192.705) to 192.690 (Exceptions to ORS 192.610 to 192.705) [series became 192.610 (Definitions for ORS 192.610 to 192.705) to 192.705 (Filing written grievance) ]. [2022 c.89 §7]

Sec. 8. (1) In the six calendar years following the operative date established in section 31 (1)(a) of this 2022 Act [January 1, 2024], the board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority shall submit written annual operations reports to the State Land Board.

(2) The State Land Board shall review the reports. [2022 c.89 §8]

Sec. 9. State Land Board oversight. The State Land Board shall:

(1) Provide policy guidance to the board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority at the request of the board of directors or Oregon State University and as deemed necessary and appropriate by the State Land Board.

(2) Review, at scheduled meetings of the board, biennial programmatic reviews submitted by the board of directors.

(3) Provide input on, and approve or deny:

(a) A forest management plan related to the Elliott State Research Forest and any subsequent amendments to the forest management plan.

(b) Any amendments to the habitat conservation plan proposed by the board of directors, prior to submittal to federal or state regulatory agencies.

(c) Any proposed amendments to the university’s Elliott State Research Forest Proposal described in section 4 of this 2022 Act.

(d) Any expansion of lands in the forest, or exchange of lands in the forest or timber on the lands, proposed by the board of directors, subject to the requirements of section 14 of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.89 §9]

Sec. 10. Duties of executive director of Elliott State Research Forest Authority. The executive director of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority reports to the board of directors of the authority and shall:

(1) Serve for a term of four years, subject to removal at the discretion of the board of directors.

(2) Receive such salary as is fixed by the board of directors. In addition to the salary, subject to applicable laws regulating travel and other expenses, the executive director shall be reimbursed for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred in the performance of official duties.

(3) Manage day-to-day operations of the Elliott State Research Forest consistent with the mission and management policies for the forest described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(4) Oversee implementation of approved biennial operations plans.

(5) Collaborate with Oregon State University or the entity contracted to implement forest management operations as described in section 7 (1)(a) of this 2022 Act to ensure that forest operations and research further the mission and management policies for the forest described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(6) Hire and supervise authority staff and contractors.

(7) Prepare and submit to the board of directors all documents and plans requiring approval by the board of directors, including the documents and plans described in section 7 (1)(i) of this 2022 Act.

(8) Oversee budget execution, regulatory compliance, contracts or agreements for services or the sale of resources and administration of facilities associated with the authority, if the oversight is delegated to the executive director by the board of directors.

(9) Manage relations with the executive and legislative branches and interested stakeholders and communities.

(10) Work with advisory committees or subcommittees formed by the board of directors.

(11) Ensure that decision-making related to the forest is open and transparent, consistent with state law.

(12) Restrict or prohibit public access to all or a part of the forest for reasonable purposes, subject to direction from the board of directors. [2022 c.89 §10]

Sec. 11. Powers of Elliott State Research Forest Authority. (1) Through the board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority, the authority may:

(a) Enter into and administer contracts and agreements, and take other actions, as needed to perform functions related to carrying out the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act and the duties described in this section and section 7 of this 2022 Act.

(b) Oversee management of the Elliott State Research Forest that maintains, protects and improves the functioning condition of the forest and furthers the mission and management policies for the forest described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(c) Participate in available ecosystem services or forestry carbon programs and markets, or enter into easements, consistent with the management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(d) Accept and expend proceeds derived from management of the forest, including proceeds derived from marketing, registering and transfer or sale of forest carbon, ecosystem services, forest products or easements, to:

(A) Support financial obligations of the authority.

(B) Conduct research or undertake other program activities located in the forest.

(C) Create financial reserves to ensure the long-term financial integrity and stability of the authority as a self-supporting entity.

(e) Hold and ensure compliance with permits, certifications and permissions from federal, state and local entities, including a habitat conservation plan and related incidental take permit.

(f) Work and partner with federal, state, tribal, local or private owners of lands surrounding the forest concerning land management, research and consolidation.

(g) Raise funds and advance cross-sector partnerships that further the mission and management policies for the forest described in section 2 of this 2022 Act and support programs related to the forest.

(2) Any contract or agreement entered into by the authority, any forest management activities conducted by the authority either directly or by contract and all other actions taken by the authority must be consistent with the applicable approved biennial operations plan.

(3) The public records laws set forth in ORS 192.311 (Definitions for ORS 192.311 to 192.478) to 192.478 (Exemption for Judicial Department) apply to the authority and the board of directors of the authority. [2022 c.89 §11]

Sec. 12. Expenses of directors, officers and employees. Directors, officers and employees of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority may receive their actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred in the performance of their official duties. [2022 c.89 §12]

Sec. 13. Judicial review of actions of Elliott State Research Forest Authority. (1) As used in this section, “materially” means of such a nature as to have influence or effect.

(2) The requirements of ORS 183.310 (Definitions for chapter) to 183.497 (Awarding costs and attorney fees when finding for petitioner) do not apply to actions of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority or the board of directors of the authority, including the adoption or approval of a document that describes or establishes how the Elliott State Research Forest is managed, such as:

(a) A forest management plan;

(b) A biennial operations report;

(c) A biennial operations plan;

(d) A habitat conservation plan;

(e) Oregon State University’s Elliott State Research Forest Proposal described in section 4 of this 2022 Act;

(f) A recreation plan; or

(g) An education plan.

(3) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, an action of the authority or the board of directors, except for the actions enumerated in subsection (2) of this section, that principally concerns a person’s individual rights may be subject to judicial review as provided in ORS 183.484 (Jurisdiction for review of orders other than contested cases) .

(4) Notwithstanding subsection (2) of this section, the following actions by the authority or the board of directors are subject to judicial review as described in ORS 183.484 (Jurisdiction for review of orders other than contested cases) , 183.486 (Form and scope of decision of reviewing court) , 183.490 (Agency may be compelled to act) , 183.497 (Awarding costs and attorney fees when finding for petitioner) and 183.500 (Appeals) :

(a) Approval of a forest management plan or amendments to a forest management plan that are materially inconsistent with:

(A) The mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act;

(B) The applicable version of the university’s Elliott State Research Forest Proposal described in section 4 of this 2022 Act; or

(C) Any applicable habitat conservation plan.

(b) Approval of a biennial operations plan, recreation plan or education plan that is materially inconsistent with the applicable forest management plan.

(c) Approval of amendments to a habitat conservation plan related to the forest that are materially inconsistent with the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(d) Entry into a contract for undertaking forest operations, or any other action related to undertaking forest operations, that is materially inconsistent with the applicable biennial operations plan. [2022 c.89 §13]

Sec. 14. Expansion or exchange of lands. (1) The board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority may propose to the State Land Board, and the State Land Board may approve, an expansion of lands in the Elliott State Research Forest, or an exchange of lands in the forest or timber on the lands, that furthers the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(2) Lands in the forest may be exchanged:

(a) Only if the exchange consolidates the forest.

(b) Only for lands of approximately equal aggregate value or a combination of lands and monetary consideration of approximately equal aggregate value.

(3) Timber on lands in the forest may be exchanged only for lands of approximately equal aggregate value.

(4) The authority shall consummate by legal conveyance an expansion or exchange described in this section.

(5) Lands acquired by expansion or exchange shall be part of the forest.

(6) After an expansion or exchange, the State Land Board shall establish by resolution the lands constituting the forest. [2022 c.89 §14]

Sec. 15. Elliott State Research Forest Account. (1) The Elliott State Research Forest Account is established in the State Treasury, separate and distinct from the General Fund. Interest earned by the account shall be credited to the account.

(2) The account shall consist of all moneys deposited in the account or otherwise transferred to the account. Moneys in the account may be invested as provided in ORS 293.701 (Definitions for ORS 293.701 to 293.857) to 293.857 (Separate accounts for each local government) . Moneys in the account are continuously appropriated to the Elliott State Research Forest Authority for carrying out sections 1 to 21 of this 2022 Act, under the supervision and direction of the State Land Board.

(3) Moneys generated from owning or operating the Elliott State Research Forest, including from any sale of forest products, carbon or ecosystem services or credits or easement, and any other revenues related to the forest, shall be deposited in the account.

(4) The authority may receive gifts, grants, bequests, endowments and donations of moneys, labor or materials from public and private sources for the purpose of contributing to the management and enhancement of the Elliott State Research Forest, including activities such as recreation, education, interpretation, research and monitoring, cultural resources management and habitat improvement.

(5) The authority may apply for, accept and utilize grants from any source, including federal, state or local governments or a private entity, to further the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(6) The authority shall deposit moneys received under subsection (4) or (5) of this section in the account. The authority may expend moneys, materials or labor received under subsection (4) or (5) of this section only for purposes specified in the gift, grant, bequest, endowment or donation. If no purpose is specified, the authority may use the moneys, materials or labor for the management and enhancement of the forest, consistent with the mission and management policies described in section 2 of this 2022 Act.

(7) The authority shall keep a record of all moneys deposited in the account or otherwise transferred to the account. The record shall indicate the sources of moneys and the individual activity or program against which each withdrawal from the account is charged. [2022 c.89 §15]

Sec. 16. Revenue bonding. (1) As used in this section, “bond-related cost” means:

(a) The costs and expenses of issuing, administering and maintaining bonds and the applicable bond program, including paying or redeeming bonds, paying amounts due in connection with credit enhancements or any instruments authorized by ORS 286A.120 (Credit enhancement devices) and paying the administrative costs and expenses of the State Treasurer and the Oregon Department of Administrative Services, including costs of consultants or advisors retained by the State Treasurer or the department for the bonds or applicable program.

(b) The costs of funding any bond reserves.

(c) Capitalized interest, if any, for bonds.

(d) Rebates or penalties due to the United States in connection with bonds.

(e) Any other costs or expenses that the State Treasurer or the director of the department determines are necessary or desirable in connection with issuing bonds or maintaining the applicable bond program.

(2) In compliance with the applicable provisions of ORS chapter 286A, the board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority may request the State Treasurer to issue the revenue bonds described in section 17 of this 2022 Act for capital costs related to owning, operating or administering the Elliott State Research Forest and to sell revenue bonds under section 17 of this 2022 Act in the manner the State Treasurer deems advisable.

(3) The net proceeds derived from the sale of the revenue bonds, after the payment of principal and of the interest and premium, if any, on outstanding revenue bonds, and of any other bond-related costs, shall be paid into the State Treasury and credited to the Elliott State Research Forest Account to be used exclusively for purposes related to owning, operating or administering the forest.

(4) The board of directors may establish one or more subaccounts, as it determines are desirable for administration of the net proceeds, in the Elliott State Research Forest Account. [2022 c.89 §16]

Sec. 17. Elliott State Research Forest development revenue bonds. (1) The board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority may request the State Treasurer to sell revenue bonds of the State of Oregon, to be known as Elliott State Research Forest development revenue bonds, in an amount authorized under ORS 286A.035 (Bond budget authorization) .

(2) The bonds shall not constitute a general obligation of the state, nor be a lien on any lands in the Elliott State Research Forest.

(3) Revenue bonds issued under this section may be secured only by moneys in the Elliott State Research Forest Account established by section 15 of this 2022 Act.

(4) The bonds shall bear interest at a rate to be determined by the State Treasurer. [2022 c.89 §17]

Sec. 18. Refunding revenue bonds. Revenue bonds issued under section 17 of this 2022 Act may be refunded as provided under ORS chapter 286A. [2022 c.89 §18]

Sec. 19. Revenue declaration or indenture authorizing issuance of bonds. (1) Before revenue bonds are issued under section 17 of this 2022 Act, the board of directors of the Elliott State Research Forest Authority must prepare a revenue declaration or indenture authorizing issuance of the bonds. The revenue declaration or indenture must be signed by a designated representative of the board of directors and approved by the State Treasurer or a person designated by the State Treasurer.

(2) A revenue declaration or indenture prepared under this section may do any of the following:

(a) Pledge any part or all of the moneys described in section 17 of this 2022 Act for purposes of the bonds to be issued.

(b) Limit the purpose for which the proceeds of the sale may be applied by the authority.

(c) Make pledges concerning the proceeds of the sale or moneys described in section 17 of this 2022 Act as necessary to secure payment of bonds of the authority.

(d) Limit or establish terms upon which additional bonds or refunding bonds may be issued under section 17 of this 2022 Act.

(e) Provide for procedures, if any, by which the terms of contracts with bondholders may be amended or rescinded, for the percentage of the bondholders that must consent to amendment or rescission of the contract and for the manner of bondholder consent to any amendment or rescission of the contract.

(f) Establish a trustee and vest the trustee with property, rights, powers and duties in trust as the State Treasurer determines is appropriate.

(g) Provide for other matters affecting the issuance of bonds.

(h) Provide for a debt service reserve pursuant to ORS 286A.025 (Issuance and sale of bonds) (6).

(i) Provide for certain covenants pursuant to ORS 286A.025 (Issuance and sale of bonds) (4)(c) and 286A.102 (Lien of a pledge) (10). [2022 c.89 §19]

Sec. 20. Revenue bond reserve accounts. (1) The Elliott State Research Forest Authority may establish one or more separate reserve accounts within, or separate and distinct from, the Elliott State Research Forest Account in connection with the issuance of revenue bonds issued under section 17 of this 2022 Act.

(2) Moneys held in any account established under this section may be subject to the provisions of any revenue declaration or indenture prepared under section 19 of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.89 §20]

Sec. 21. Requirements for revenue bonds; State Treasurer determinations. (1) A revenue bond issued under section 17 of this 2022 Act:

(a) Must contain on its face a statement that the ad valorem taxing power of the State of Oregon is not pledged to the payment of the principal or the interest on the bond.

(b) Shall be issued as provided in ORS chapter 286A.

(c) Must mature on or before a date determined by calculation of the expected economic life of the improvements, assets and projects financed with the proceeds of the bond.

(2) The State Treasurer shall determine, after consultation with the Elliott State Research Forest Authority, all aspects relating to the sale of bonds under section 17 of this 2022 Act that are not otherwise specifically provided in this section and sections 17, 18, 19 and 20 of this 2022 Act. [2022 c.89 §21]

Note: Sections 31 and 32, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, provide:

Sec. 31. (1)(a) Sections 1, 2, 4, 5, 7 to 21 and 24, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, and the amendments to ORS 30.949 (Action for hindering, impairment or obstruction of forest practice on state forestland) , 283.085 (Definitions for ORS 283.085 to 283.092) , 530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) , 530.480 (Legal descriptions of lands) , 530.490 (Management, control and protection of Common School Forest Lands and Elliott State Forest) , 530.510 (Exchanges of land) and 530.520 (Use of receipts) by sections 23 and 25 to 30, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, become operative on January 1, 2024.

(b) Sections 3 and 6, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, become operative upon completion of all of the events described in subsection (2) of this section.

(2) Notwithstanding subsection (1) of this section, sections 1 to 21 and 24, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, and the amendments to ORS 30.949 (Action for hindering, impairment or obstruction of forest practice on state forestland) , 283.085 (Definitions for ORS 283.085 to 283.092) , 530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) , 530.480 (Legal descriptions of lands) , 530.490 (Management, control and protection of Common School Forest Lands and Elliott State Forest) , 530.510 (Exchanges of land) and 530.520 (Use of receipts) by sections 23 and 25 to 30, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, do not become operative unless, on or before December 31, 2023:

(a) The State Land Board ensures that financial obligations to the Common School Fund related to the Elliott State Forest are satisfied;

(b) The State Land Board votes to decouple the Elliott State Forest from the Common School Fund and authorizes actions necessary to transfer the forest to management described in sections 1 to 21, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022;

(c) The Department of State Lands submits a habitat conservation plan for the Elliott State Forest to the National Marine Fisheries Service and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service pursuant to the Endangered Species Act of 1973 (P.L. 93-205, 16 U.S.C. 1531 to 1544) and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service initiates preparation of a final environmental impact statement pursuant to the National Environmental Policy Act (42 U.S.C. 4321 et seq.);

(d) The Department of State Lands:

(A) Contracts for third-party expertise to provide input informing the department’s review of a plan submitted by Oregon State University addressing the financial viability of forest operations and management that are consistent with the mission and management policies described in section 2, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022; and

(B) After considering the input described in subparagraph (A) of this paragraph, concludes that the plan demonstrates financial viability;

(e) The State Land Board approves a forest management plan, as described in section 1, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, for the Elliott State Research Forest; and

(f) The Board of Trustees of Oregon State University authorizes the university to participate in management of the Elliott State Research Forest.

(3) The State Forester may take any action upon completion of all of the events described in subsection (2) of this section and before the operative date specified in subsection (1)(a) of this section that the State Land Board, the State Board of Forestry, the State Forestry Department or the State Forester deems necessary to prepare for the establishment of the Elliott State Research Forest as described in sections 1 to 21 and 24, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, and the amendments to ORS 30.949 (Action for hindering, impairment or obstruction of forest practice on state forestland) , 283.085 (Definitions for ORS 283.085 to 283.092) , 530.450 (Withdrawal from sale of Elliott State Forest) , 530.480 (Legal descriptions of lands) , 530.490 (Management, control and protection of Common School Forest Lands and Elliott State Forest) , 530.510 (Exchanges of land) and 530.520 (Use of receipts) by sections 23 and 25 to 30, chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022. [2022 c.89 §31; 2023 c.225 §1]

Sec. 32. The State Land Board shall report by February 15, 2024, to an interim or regular committee of the Legislative Assembly related to forests, in the manner described in ORS 192.245 (Form of report to legislature) , on whether all of the events described in section 31 (2), chapter 89, Oregon Laws 2022, occurred on or before December 31, 2023. [2022 c.89 §32; 2023 c.225 §2]

Source: Section 530.520 — Use of receipts; manner of paying administrative expenses , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors530.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.310 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.310
527.310 Definitions for ORS 527.310 to 527.370
Status: in_force

As used in and for the purposes of ORS 527.310 (Definitions for ORS 527.310 to 527.370) to 527.370 (Disposition of receipts) :

(1) “Control” means reduction of resource losses or pest occurrences to an acceptable level by direct and immediate application of effective prevention, suppression or eradication strategies, or any combination thereof.

(2) “Eradication” means the implementation of strategies through host or pest destruction or removal, or by the use of pesticides, to contain or completely eliminate exotic pests in a specific area, or both.

(3) “Exotic” means any pest that has been accidentally or deliberately introduced into an area where it does not naturally occur.

(4) “Forestland” means any nonfederal land which has enough timber or forest growths, standing or down, to constitute, in the judgment of the State Board of Forestry, forest pests of a nature to be harmful, detrimental and injurious to the management objectives for the site.

(5) “Integrated pest management” means a coordinated decision-making process that utilizes the most appropriate of all reasonably available means, tactics or strategies blended together to minimize the impact of forest pests in an environmentally and economically sound manner to meet site specific management objectives.

(6) “Native” means any pest that is indigenous or naturally occurring in a particular area.

(7) “Owner” means any person owning nonfederal forestlands or timber as shown on the latest records of the tax collector of the county in which the forestlands or timber is situated. Where timber is owned entirely separate and apart from the land whereon it grows or is situated, “owner” means any person owning such timber as shown on the latest records of the tax collector of the county in which the timber is situated.

(8) “Pest” means any forest insect or disease which causes or may cause damage that prevents or interferes with management objectives in a specific area.

(9) “Pesticide” has the meaning given that term in ORS 634.006 (Definitions) .

(10) “Prevention” means the implementation of strategies designed to minimize the impact of a pest before an outbreak occurs, including but not limited to, release or enhancement of natural enemies and silvicultural activities to increase tree vigor or otherwise reduce tree susceptibility to pest damage. “Prevention” requires the incorporation of integrated pest management into overall forest resource management in order to create ecological conditions unfavorable for the reproduction or survival of pest organisms.

(11) “Strategies” may include, but are not limited to, physical and biological methods and application of pesticides.

(12) “Suppression” means the implementation of intervention strategies designed to reduce native pest populations to acceptable levels necessary to meet forest resource management objectives in a specified area. [Amended by 1967 c.87 §1; 1991 c.686 §1]

Source: Section 527.310 — Definitions for ORS 527.310 to 527.370 , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).
ORS § 527.765 — OR Code / Title 44 / Chapter 527 / Section 527.765
527.765 Best management practices to maintain water quality
Status: in_force

(1) The State Board of Forestry shall establish best management practices and other rules applying to forest practices as necessary to insure that to the maximum extent practicable nonpoint source discharges of pollutants resulting from forest operations on forestlands do not impair the achievement and maintenance of water quality standards established by the Environmental Quality Commission for the waters of the state. Such best management practices shall consist of forest practices rules adopted to prevent or reduce pollution of waters of the state. Factors to be considered by the board in establishing best management practices shall include, where applicable, but not be limited to:

(a) Beneficial uses of waters potentially impacted;

(b) The effects of past forest practices on beneficial uses of water;

(c) Appropriate practices employed by other forest managers;

(d) Technical, economic and institutional feasibility; and

(e) Natural variations in geomorphology and hydrology.

(2) The board shall consult with the Environmental Quality Commission in adoption and review of best management practices and other rules to address nonpoint source discharges of pollutants resulting from forest operations on forestlands.

(3) Intentionally left blank —Ed.

(a) Notwithstanding ORS 183.310 (Definitions for chapter) (8), upon written petition for rulemaking under ORS 183.390 (Petitions requesting adoption of rules) of any interested person or agency, the board shall review the best management practices adopted pursuant to this section. In addition to all other requirements of law, the petition must allege with reasonable specificity that nonpoint source discharges of pollutants resulting from forest operations being conducted in accordance with the best management practices are a significant contributor to violations of such standards.

(b) Except as provided in paragraph (c) of this subsection, if the board determines that forest operations being conducted in accordance with the best management practices are neither significantly responsible for particular water quality standards not being met nor are a significant contributor to violations of such standards, the board shall issue an order dismissing the petition.

(c) If the petition for review of best management practices is made by the Environmental Quality Commission, the board shall not terminate the review without the concurrence of the commission, unless the board commences rulemaking in accordance with paragraph (e) of this subsection.

(d) If a petition for review is dismissed, upon conclusion of the review, the board shall issue an order that includes findings regarding specific allegations in the petition and shall state the board’s reasons for any conclusions to the contrary.

(e) If, pursuant to review, the board determines that best management practices should be reviewed, the board shall commence rulemaking proceedings for that purpose. Rules specifying the revised best management practices must be adopted not later than two years from the filing date of the petition for review unless the board, with concurrence of the Environmental Quality Commission, finds that special circumstances require additional time.

(f) Notwithstanding the time limitation established in paragraph (e) of this subsection, at the request of the Environmental Quality Commission, the board shall take action as quickly as practicable to prevent significant damage to beneficial uses identified by the commission while the board is revising its best management practices and rules as provided for in this section. [1991 c.919 §20; 2003 c.75 §95; 2003 c.749 §11]

Source: Section 527.765 — Best management practices to maintain water quality; rules , https://www.­oregonlegislature.­gov/bills_laws/ors/ors527.­html (accessed May 26, 2025).