Protecting Oregon’s farms and ranches, investing in nature climate solutions
Today is the first day of Oregon’s 2022 legislative short session! For the next 35 days, COLT will be tracking bills and hearings in Salem to represent land trust interests in Oregon. This year, we’re advocating for programs and policies that protect working farms and ranches and deepen Oregon’s investment in natural climate solutions.
Priority 1: Funding the Oregon Agricultural Heritage Program
COLT is partnering with conservation and agricultural groups across Oregon to secure $5 million in funding for the Oregon Agricultural Heritage Program (OAHP). Established in 2017, OAHP provides the structure and funding to keep working lands working, while preserving and enhancing fish and wildlife benefits on these lands. Learn more.
Priority 2: Investing in Natural Climate Solutions
COLT supports SB 1534, the “Natural and Working Lands Bill” that sets a foundation to increase carbon sequestration and resilience on Oregon’s natural and working lands. SB 1534 will enable Oregon’s natural and working lands to be voluntarily managed as resilient and robust carbon sinks while supporting the health of our economy and communities and enhancing social equity and quality of life.
We will keep you updated throughout the session and hope you join us in our efforts to advance and defend policies and programs that support land trust work.
