To the Editor:

We were deeply honored when the Oregon Board of Forestry chose to hold a meeting in Enterprise, offering rural Oregonians a chance to interact with the board responsible for crucial forest policy decisions. Unfortunately, only four out of seven board members attended in person, missing out on the intended local perspective and forest tour.

Engagement opportunities like these are crucial for rural Oregonians, who often feel unheard by policymakers in Salem. During a previous meeting in Corvallis, all seven board members had the opportunity to listen to over 100 people who testified in person, expressing their concerns about the board’s decisions. Chair Jim Kelly acknowledged the importance of public access and input, vowing to visit rural areas and hear from rural Oregonians more than ever before.

We wholeheartedly commend this leadership and commitment, recognizing the efforts required to coordinate a meaningful event with a comprehensive forest tour.

We urge the three absent board members to understand the crucial message that emerged from the April tour. Serving on a public board demands time and personal sacrifices, as we, as representatives, understand from our own experiences traveling between rural Oregon and the Willamette Valley to ensure our constituents’ voices are heard.

In conclusion, the Oregon Board of Forestry’s decision to hold a meeting in Enterprise provided a valuable platform for rural Oregonians to engage with policymakers directly. Effective forest policy requires a genuine understanding of the needs and concerns of those directly impacted, and in-person engagement is a vital component of achieving this goal.

Sen. Lynn Findley

Senate District 30

Sen. Bill Hansell

Senate District 29

Rep. Mark Owens

House District 60

Rep. Bobby Levy

House District 58