SALEM, Ore. — The Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission approved a series of grant recommendations and rule updates during its virtual meeting April 22, including new guidelines governing the use of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), commonly known as drones, in state parks and along the ocean shore.
The rule changes, to be implemented by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department over the coming months, are intended to clarify where drone use will be permitted. Under the updated rules, UAS operations will be allowed only in specifically designated park properties.
Commissioners also took action on several additional rule matters. They adopted temporary rules for public improvement contracting, a move aimed at keeping projects on track through the summer while permanent rules are developed. The commission also approved the opening of rulemaking to consider updates to the Land and Water Conservation Fund grant program.
However, the commission denied a petition seeking to revisit rules on extra vehicle fees for motorhomes. The proposal would have allowed motorhomes to bring a non-towed additional vehicle at no charge. Commissioners determined there remains a need for the current rule and said conditions have not changed enough to justify reopening the issue.
In addition to rulemaking, the commission approved multiple grant awards. Through the Recreation Trails Program, 17 grants totaling more than $2 million were authorized. The federally funded program is administered by OPRD and represents a portion of fuel tax revenue designated for non-highway recreational use.
The commission also approved 10 grants totaling nearly $9 million through the Land and Water Conservation Fund, a federal program supported by revenue from offshore oil and gas leases.
Other actions included confirming appointments to the commission’s Audit and All-Terrain Vehicle committees and approving legislative concepts for consideration during the 2027 legislative session.
Commissioners also received updates on several real estate matters, including potential acquisition of properties at Abiqua Falls, a site near Minam, and an easement in the Blue Mountains tied to the Boardman-to-Hemingway transmission project.
The next commission meeting is scheduled for June 9–10 and will be held virtually. Meeting materials and recordings are available through OPRD’s website and YouTube channel.
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