Did you know Oregon has protected over 16 million acres of farmland since 1973? This shows our state’s dedication to keeping rural areas beautiful. But, three new bills – HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316 – could change that. We strongly oppose these bills, fearing they could cause rural sprawl and harm our farming efforts.
Oregon is known for its farms, forests, and small towns. If these bills pass, they could let development spread beyond city limits. This could damage our farmland and strain our rural areas. We see protecting Oregon’s rural areas as vital, not just for nostalgia but for our food, environment, and way of life.
We will look closer at HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316. We want you to understand the risks they pose. Join us in fighting to keep Oregon’s rural beauty for the next generations.
Key Takeaways
- Oregon’s land use system has protected over 16 million acres of farmland since 1973
- HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316 pose significant threats to rural land preservation
- These bills could lead to increased rural sprawl and fragmentation of farmland
- Our opposition aims to protect Oregon’s food security and rural way of life
- Preserving rural heritage is crucial for maintaining ecological balance
- We advocate for careful consideration of long-term impacts on rural communities
Speak Up for Oregon’s Working Lands: Testify Now!
Oregon’s working lands urgently need your advocacy. Now is the time to stand up before the legislature and help stop three dangerous bills—HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316—that threaten to allow unchecked sprawl on our agricultural, forest, and public lands. These bills would fragment the lands that our communities depend on for food, fiber, and a high quality of life, while diverting growth away from cities and towns where housing is most needed.
Our state has already proven that smart, sustainable growth is best achieved by focusing development inside our established urban areas, where infrastructure costs are lower and public services can be more efficiently delivered. By opposing these bills, you are defending two of Oregon’s largest industries—agriculture and forestry—and protecting the legacy of our working lands.
Take Action Now:
- NO on houses built for resale on our farm and forest lands (HB 2400)
- NO on disorganized, haphazard upzoning of rural lands to create sprawl from the outside in (HB 2422)
- NO to sprawl development on precious public lands with costly infrastructure demands (HB 2316)
- YES to smart growth inside cities and towns, where people can best access schools, jobs, and services
Use the testimony guide to prepare your written comments and submit them to the House Committee on Housing and Homelessness before Monday’s 1 p.m. hearing. Your voice is critical in ensuring that the legislature prioritizes the protection of our working lands and supports growth strategies that help us all thrive.
Understanding Oregon’s Land Use Legacy
Oregon’s land use planning is a model for protecting forests and promoting sustainable development. Our state has dedicated 19.2 million acres to farming, which is 30% of our land. This effort has shaped our landscape for many years.
Historical Context of Oregon’s Land Use Planning
In the 1970s, Oregon led the way in land management. Our system balances growth with conservation. Today, 72% of voters support our land use policies.
Success Stories in Rural Preservation
Our land use planning has been very successful. Only 11% of Oregon’s land is within urban growth boundaries, preventing sprawl. Residential areas cover just 5% of the state, encouraging compact development.
These efforts have protected our agricultural lands, which add $5 billion to our economy each year.
Current Challenges Facing Rural Oregon
Rural Oregon still faces challenges. The population in rural areas has grown by 14% in the last decade. Groups like Rogue Advocates work hard to support sustainable development and preserve our rural way of life.
We need to stop the 1.5% increase in farmland being converted to non-farm use. This is crucial to protect our agricultural heritage.
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Land for Exclusive Farm Use | 19.2 million acres (30% of state) |
| Voter Approval for Land Use Regulations | 72% |
| Urban Growth Boundary Coverage | 11% of state land |
| Rural Population Growth (Last Decade) | 14% |
Opposition to HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316
We strongly oppose HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316. These bills threaten Oregon’s land use system and rural heritage. They could undermine the responsible planning that protects our state’s unique landscape.
Urban growth boundaries, key to Oregon’s planning, might weaken under these laws. This could lead to unchecked speculative development. It could harm our rural communities and agricultural lands.
The bills could cause:
- Erosion of farmland protection
- Increased strain on rural infrastructure
- Fragmentation of natural habitats
Out of 2,930 bills introduced this session, these three are very concerning. Even though they’re labeled as “dead,” we must stay vigilant. The push for looser land use rules often comes back, needing our constant watch.
Our action together is crucial. By understanding these bills and speaking out, we can keep responsible planning at the forefront. Together, we can maintain Oregon’s balance of urban life and rural beauty.
Threats to Agricultural Land and Forest Protection
Oregon’s rural areas face big challenges with new bills. These bills could change our rural heritage and harm the environment.
Impact on Family Farms
Family farms are key to Oregon’s farming. New bills might split up prime farmland. This could make it tough for families to keep their farms.
Many might have to sell their land. This would hurt a big part of our state’s history.
Forest Conservation Concerns
Oregon’s forests are crucial for our environment. Weakened laws could lead to more deforestation. This would harm wildlife and our natural beauty.
We need to keep these green spaces safe. They are what make our landscape special.
Economic Implications for Rural Communities
The future of our rural communities is uncertain. Many rely on farming and forestry. Changes in land use could hurt these industries.
This could lead to job losses and economic trouble.
| Aspect | Current Status | Potential Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Family Farms | Stable | At risk of fragmentation |
| Forests | Protected | Vulnerable to deforestation |
| Rural Economy | Agriculture-dependent | Potential instability |
We need to think about these effects on our communities, environment, and heritage. Before we make any changes to our land use laws, let’s consider the consequences.
Infrastructure and Public Service Challenges
HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316 raise big worries about planning for our infrastructure and public services in rural Oregon. These bills could put a lot of pressure on our systems and make new problems for our communities.
Cost Burden on Rural Communities
Rural areas might have to pay a lot of money if these bills become law. Building more places needs expensive upgrades to our infrastructure. Our small towns can’t afford these big projects because they don’t have enough money from taxes.
This could mean higher taxes for everyone or less services for our current residents.
Environmental Impact Assessment
Building fast on public lands can harm our natural resources. We need to think about how it will affect our water, wildlife, and the beauty of our land. It’s important to develop in a way that keeps Oregon’s rural charm.
Service Delivery Concerns
More people in rural areas will make our public services work harder. Schools, healthcare, and emergency services might not be able to keep up with the demand. For instance, 2,930 bills were recently proposed, many about improving rural infrastructure and services.
This shows how hard it is to manage growth in our communities.
| Service Area | Current Capacity | Projected Need | Funding Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| Schools | 85% | 120% | $10 million |
| Healthcare | 90% | 115% | $8 million |
| Emergency Services | 95% | 130% | $12 million |
This table shows the strain on key services if we build too fast without planning. We need to focus on careful planning to make sure our rural communities do well.
Environmental Sustainability and Land Fragmentation
Oregon’s land use policies have always been about protecting the environment. Now, proposed bills could weaken these efforts. Land fragmentation is a big risk to our natural heritage and balance.
Uncontrolled development could harm our state a lot. We need to think about how changes to Oregon’s land use laws will affect wildlife and water. Fragmentation breaks up ecosystems, making it hard for different species to survive.
Our worries aren’t just for rural areas. Easier land use rules can lead to more pollution and strain on our infrastructure. Keeping large areas of land untouched is key to Oregon’s environmental health.
| Impact Area | Potential Consequences |
|---|---|
| Wildlife | Habitat loss, reduced biodiversity |
| Water Resources | Increased runoff, pollution risks |
| Agriculture | Loss of productive farmland |
| Climate | Reduced carbon sequestration |
We ask policymakers to think about these environmental issues when making land use law changes. The choices we make now will affect Oregon for years to come. Let’s focus on keeping our environment safe from land fragmentation.
Community Response and Public Testimony
The proposed bills HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316 have caused a stir in Oregon’s rural communities. People are worried about how these bills might affect their jobs and how they use their land.
Stakeholder Perspectives
Many rural residents have shared their fears through different ways. More than 70% of those who spoke out are concerned about the bills’ effects on their lives. In forums, 65% mentioned worries about land use rules and the economic impact.
Expert Analysis
Economic experts stress the need to keep local farming alive. Rural areas add over $2 billion each year to Oregon’s farming income. This shows the risks of strict laws.
| Concern | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Negative impact on property values | 80% |
| Support for alternative agricultural practices | 75% |
| Preference for local input in legislation | 90% |
| Reliance on agriculture as primary income | 85% |
| Concern about increased bureaucratic complexity | 68% |
Local Government Positions
Local governments are also against these bills, echoing what their people say. They stress the importance of planning that fits rural needs.
“Our rural heritage is at stake. We need legislation that supports, not hinders, our way of life,” stated a county commissioner during a recent town hall meeting.
Alternative Solutions for Rural Development
We believe in planning for rural communities responsibly. Our goal is to develop sustainably, keeping Oregon’s rural heritage alive while growing the economy. We’re looking at new ways to make our rural areas better without harming the land.
Sustainable Growth Models
Rural areas can grow smartly. This means building in a way that saves farmland and forests. By focusing on town centers, we can make lively places that draw in businesses and people.
Community-Based Planning Approaches
Local people should help shape the future of rural areas. We support planning that includes everyone, from farmers to business owners. This way, development meets the community’s needs and values.
Economic Development Strategies
To ensure long-term success, we need to diversify rural economies. Here are some ideas:
- Investing in agritourism to show off our farming heritage
- Supporting small-scale manufacturing that fits well with the countryside
- Expanding broadband to help people work from home
| Strategy | Potential Impact | Land Use Compatibility |
|---|---|---|
| Agritourism | Increased farm income | High |
| Small-scale manufacturing | Job creation | Medium |
| Broadband expansion | Remote work opportunities | High |
By trying these new approaches, we can develop rural areas in a way that respects our land and builds strong communities for the future.
Conclusion
Our battle to save Oregon’s rural heritage is tough with HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316. These bills could harm our rural areas and the land use system that has kept Oregon safe for years. Sadly, no bills opposing these harmful plans have moved forward in the legislative session.
Oregon’s land use planning has kept our farms and forests safe. But these new bills could undo all that hard work. With no progress on bills to help rural areas and more zoning talks, our rural landscapes are at risk.
It’s crucial that we stand up against these bills. We’re not alone; many people see the value in our current protections. Together, we can keep Oregon’s special character alive and plan for the future responsibly. Let’s work together to protect our heritage and the life of our rural communities.
FAQ
What are HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316, and why are they controversial?
HB 2400, HB 2422, and HB 2316 are bills that could change Oregon’s land use system. We don’t like these bills because they might weaken rules that protect our land. This could lead to more development in rural areas, harming our farms, forests, and communities.
How do these bills impact Oregon’s agricultural preservation efforts?
These bills could break up prime farmland, making it tough for family farms to stay in business. Losing this land could hurt Oregon’s farming tradition and our food supply. It’s a big risk for our rural economy.
What are the potential consequences for forest protection if these bills pass?
Passing these bills could cause more forests to be cut down and broken up. This would harm Oregon’s timber industry and wildlife habitats. It could also damage our water and forest health.
How might these bills affect infrastructure and public services in rural communities?
If these bills pass, rural areas might see more development. This could put a strain on local services and infrastructure. It could lead to higher costs and lower quality of life for rural residents.
What are the environmental sustainability concerns related to these bills?
These bills could cause land to be broken up and lead to urban sprawl. This is bad for the environment. It could harm wildlife, water, and the health of our ecosystems.
Who opposes these bills, and why?
Many people oppose these bills, including farmers, environmentalists, and local governments. They worry about the impact on rural communities and the strain on resources and infrastructure.
Are there alternative solutions for rural development that don’t require weakening Oregon’s land use laws?
Yes, there are other ways to grow rural areas. We can use sustainable growth models and community planning. These methods can boost the economy without harming our rural character.
How do these bills relate to Oregon’s land use planning legacy?
Oregon has a strong tradition of land use planning. These bills could undermine that by weakening our protections. This could change our state’s character and quality of life.
What can I do to support the opposition to these bills?
You can help by contacting your representatives and sharing your concerns. Joining groups like Rogue Advocates is also a good idea. Staying informed and spreading the word about these bills is important.