The quest to protect Skyline Forest continues with legislation likely headed to the floor of the Oregon Senate this Thursday.  Late last week, the Senate Rules Committee referred HB 2228 to the full Senate with a recommendation of “Do Pass,” so the Deschutes Land Trust is cautiously optimistic. The bill was a big surprise for the Land Trust, as circumstances this past fall appeared to preclude legislation this session. However, legislative sessions often take unexpected turns and it would appear that this one has taken a very favorable turn for Central Oregon and Skyline Forest. Obviously, the Land Trust is taking every opportunity to let legislators know how important Skyline is to our communities.

Under HB 2228, the current owner of the forest would be able to concentrate and cluster their potential development on a small corner of the forest, instead of subdividing it into 240 acre homesites. The breakthrough came when local land-use watchdog, Central Oregon LandWatch, approached supportive legislators and suggested the idea of allowing the landowner to cluster homes, rather than the large lots allowed under existing law.

If the landowner chooses to take advantage of the opportunity, the Deschutes Land Trust would be able to purchase a total of 64,700 acres: this includes Skyline Forest, forests along the Little Deschutes River, and an additional 1,800 acre conservation easement near the north end of Skyline Forest. All told, the landowner would be able to develop up to 282 homesites on 1,200 acres and the Land Trust would have the opportunity to purchase and protect over 100 square miles of Central Oregon forest for the cost of the timber, rather than for its development value. 

If the Senate approves HB 2228, the bill would go back to the House of Representatives for their concurrence and then onto the Governor. Once signed into law, the Land Trust would need to begin planning for management of the forest and fundraising for its purchase. Given the need for planning, fundraising and the landowner’s need for the real estate market to rebound, the legislation contains a 5 year “sunset” clause, during which the landowner can take advantage of the opportunity. While we’re not there yet, Skyline Forest is closer than ever to permanent protection. With your continued support, we can and will get there!