Oregon — The Bureau of Land Management is inviting public comment on proposed updates to resource management plans covering 2.5 million acres of timberlands in western Oregon.
A notice is scheduled to be published in the Federal Register opening a public comment period that runs through March 23. The agency said the effort reflects the Trump administration’s focus on increasing domestic timber production and reducing reliance on foreign imports.
“Bringing timber production back to historic levels is essential for reviving local economies and reducing the threat of catastrophic wildfires,” said Acting BLM Director Bill Groffy. “President Trump has made it clear — enhanced domestic timber production is vital for our national security, economic prosperity, and effective wildfire management.”
The proposed updates apply to lands managed under the Oregon and California Revested Lands Sustained Yield Management Act of 1937, which directs the agency to manage western Oregon timberlands for sustained yield forestry while supporting local communities.
According to BLM, revenue generated from timber harvests on these lands is shared between the U.S. Treasury and 18 western Oregon counties. Those funds help support schools, libraries, public safety and infrastructure projects.
The agency estimates that annual timber sales in western Oregon support approximately 2,000 local jobs and contribute more than $1 billion to local economies.
Additional information about the proposal is available through the BLM National NEPA Register, where comments can be submitted online. Written comments may also be emailed to BLM_OR_Revision_Scoping@blm.gov or mailed to the agency’s Portland office.
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The Timber in the current areas that have been protected in the past, need continuation of protection. The trees are worth much more standing than the temporary satisfaction of monetary gain. As Oregon continues to explode population growth, it is even more important to protect these areas for wildlife too. We must not sell Oregon short. Please find other ways to improve the economy. Please leave our natural resources in place. Thank you for this opportunity.