Timber Recession Impacts ForestryWhile the timber industry suffers from the worst recession in a generation, public agencies are not immune from financial difficulties. The Department of Forestry is suffering the effects of reduced timber sale revenue. State Forester Marvin Brown sent an email last week announcing 40 layoffs in the state forests program. The budget the legislature approves will most likely result in layoffs to the private forests and fire programs.
Timber industry and forest landowner advocates have been communicating the importance of the ODF's fire protection and forest practices enforcement programs. Both programs are jointly funded by forest landowners, timber purchasers and Oregon's General Fund. The legislature's budget for the ODF will also determine forestland fire assessments and the Forest Products Harvest Tax.
Climate Change Legislation Still AliveOregon's two investor-owned utilities, Portland General Electric and PacifiCorp drafted legislation in response following discussions with Governor Kulongoski. Last week business, industry, labor, homebuilders and utility representatives held several hours of meetings to hammer out an acceptable legislative proposal to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and encourage energy efficiency.
Meanwhile, the Governor has played a wildcard in the climate change arena by abruptly replacing Department of Energy Director Michael Grainey with Mark Long, another agency leader. Grainey had good working relationships with industry and legislators. He was pragmatic when it came to renewable energy investments and carbon emission reduction strategies.
For the report on OSWA legislation, click on:
OSWA Bill TrackerLogin: OSWA; Password: session09
For more legislative information, click on:
Conkling Fiskum & McCormick Insider Online.
