Constructive O&C Lands Management Plan Unveiled by Sen. Wyden

Press Releases and Statements November 26, 2013 Read time:

Projects: U.S. Public Lands

Statement of Nicole Cordan, U.S. public lands officer, The Pew Charitable Trusts

Washington—“The O&C lands management plan proposed by Senator Ron Wyden of Oregon is a constructive path forward that works to balance conservation gains with timber harvesting. We appreciate the importance that Sen. Wyden, chairman of the Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, has placed on safeguarding ancient forests, clean water, and wild places. We commend his proposal to designate the new Wild Rogue and Devil's Staircase Wilderness areas, to protect nearly 200 miles of wild and scenic rivers, and to safeguard some of this nation's oldest and grandest forests from logging and commercial development.

“Sen. Wyden has shown strong leadership in seeking a way to move past partisan gridlock and come to a consensus on management of these important lands. The Pew Charitable Trusts believes that his approach has real merit. We understand that he will be seeking reaction from the community and that there will be changes to the proposal as it moves forward. Aspects of the plan need clarification and refinement. We look forward to working with the senator and his staff to strengthen the proposal as it moves through the legislative process.”

Rainie Falls Trail. Rogue River, Ore.