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Board of Forestry Holds Off Boosting Logging Levels in State ForestsNews & Program Updates
New data shows increased logging will harm salmon habitat
At their November 2008 meeting, the Oregon Board of Forestry decided to hold off on raising logging levels on the Tillamook and Clatsop State Forests. New data presented by the Wild Salmon Center regarding salmon habitat on the Tillamook Forest played a part in their decision. The Wild Salmon Center presented data showing that increased logging in Salmon Anchor Habitat Areas would degrade watersheds and harm wild salmon habitat.
Additionally, new data from the Oregon Department of Forestry shows that the state is already logging at a level 30% higher than is considered sustainable for timber and the environment under the current plan. These data helped delay the Board of Forestry's decision on a proposal by some Oregon counties to raise more revenues by increasing logging on state forests.
"The data show that the state is already overcutting the forest," said Wild Salmon Center President Guido Rahr. "Additionally, our fish survey and mapping data shows increased harm to salmon habitat if logging increases."
Wild Salmon Center will work with partners and coastal communities to find alternate long-term solutions to county revenue needs.