By Oregonians for Food and Shelter,
Legislative Update
With just over three weeks left until the constitutional sine die, the legislative stall out continued into its 5th week. The situation has attracted national attention, and despite efforts by Governor Kotek to assist negotiations, the impasse continues, making it the longest walkout in state history. Meanwhile, budget writers continue with their work in the hopes of a solution before sine die, or in preparation for a shorter special session this summer.
Grassroots update
On Thursday, Lane Families for Farms and Forests, in partnership with the Lane Chapter of Oregon Small Woodlands Association, hosted a Water Quality tour focused on the McKenzie Watershed. This was an insightful experience that highlighted the extensive work and ongoing collaborations that sustain working lands and protect and improve water quality and drinking water. Attendees visited:
- Giustina Land and Timber: Holiday Farm Fire Recovery in a Domestic Drinking Watershed
- Elk Ridge Tree Farm: Experiments in Post-Fire Restoration Forestry in a Changing Climate at Small Woodland Operation
- McKenzie River Discovery Center
- Goodpasture Farm: Hazelnut Management and Production along the McKenzie River
The attendees represented the research and collaborations in the watershed at all levels, and included representatives from the National Council for Air and Stream Improvement, Natural Resources Conservation Service, Farm Service Agency, Oregon Department of Agriculture, and Oregon Department of Forestry. There was also great representation from local entities collaborating with landowners including Eugene Water & Electric Board, Coast Fork Willamette Watershed Council, Upper Willamette Soil & Water Conservation District, and Rainbow Water District. Special thanks to Lane County Commissioner David Loveall and City of Coburg Planner Megan Winner for attending this event.
Congratulations to Lane Families for Farms and Forest for organizing this wonderful experience for local leaders and those engaged on the ground!
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