Oregon Governor Takes Bold Action to Enhance Climate Resilience for State Lands and Waters

Oregon is taking a big step to protect its natural lands and waters against climate change. Recently, Governor Tina Kotek signed an executive order aimed at improving climate resilience across the state.

This order, known as Executive Order 25-26, tells state agencies to work together to strengthen climate-friendly strategies. It focuses on vital areas like state-owned forests, grasslands, farmlands, wetlands, and urban open spaces.

The timing is significant. Just a month before, the Pew Charitable Trusts urged Oregon to safeguard these natural areas. Leaders there welcomed the governor’s move, highlighting its importance for the state’s environment.

Karen Lewotsky, a director at the Oregon Environmental Council, emphasized the need for smart water management. “As climate impacts grow each year, we have to ensure access to clean drinking water,” she explained. Her comments reflect the growing concern around water resources as climate change becomes more immediate.

The new order aims to protect 10% more of Oregon’s climate-resilient lands and waters over the next decade. State agencies are tasked with measuring progress toward this goal.

Kotek pointed out that Oregon’s forests and wetlands have a huge role to play. “They can absorb carbon and deliver key benefits to our state,” she noted. The plan will help landowners manage their properties to withstand climate impacts.

In addition to protecting existing lands, the order encourages state agencies to identify areas that are currently resilient to climate change. It also recognizes places that could become more resilient with specific actions like restoration efforts.

Beyond just a plan, the order aims to make it easier for farmers, businesses, and landowners to adopt climate-friendly practices. A coordinated approach will help in tracking progress and improving resources for local communities.

Experts agree that this is a crucial move for Oregon. Andrew Maggi from the Pew Charitable Trusts said it will help keep the state’s natural resources strong for future generations. He also noted that extreme weather events, such as the devastating 2020 Labor Day fires that burned nearly 850,000 acres, show the urgent need for these protections.

Research shows that natural lands play a significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. In fact, the Oregon Climate Action Commission reported a 12% decline in emissions from these areas in 2019. Protecting and restoring these lands could double that reduction.

Additionally, the commission stated that Oregon needs to sequester an extra 5 million metric tons of carbon by 2030. This has the same effect as planting over 82 million tree seedlings over ten years. It’s clear that protecting natural resources can help combat climate change while benefiting local communities.

In conclusion, Oregon’s proactive stance on protecting its natural and working lands is promising. By implementing comprehensive policies, the state is taking essential steps to ensure its environment stays resilient against the ongoing challenges posed by climate change.



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Science & Environment | Land | Water | Land Use | Tina Kotek | Oregon | Climate | Climate Change | Environment