Inspirion Joomla Template

Oregon is currently engaged in a variety of ocean planning and management activities that will affect the future of our ocean ecosystem and economy.  This website will help you learn about these activities and about opportunities to be involved.  Be sure to check the calendar of Upcoming Ocean Events, the Latest Additions of publications and announcements, and the list of Most Popular articles and information about Oregon’s ocean.

Governor Kitzhaber today (1.25.2013) thanked the Oregon Land Conservation and Development Commission for moving forward on a decision to adopt an amendment to Oregon's Territorial Sea Plan. LCDC members approved the amendment, which will allow for future siting of marine renewable energy development projects. 

“Oregon has long been a leader in renewable energy development, and energy issues will have the single greatest impact on Oregon in the coming decade,” said Governor Kitzhaber. “This balanced proposal shows Oregon can thoughtfully support this emerging and promising industry while protecting our coastal communities’ quality of life, our commercial and recreational fisheries, and a coastline that all Oregonians treasure.”  Click Here to view the full press release.

With the LCDC's decision, Oregon's Territorial Sea Plan now guides the siting of wave energy and other forms of marine renewable energy to areas that pose the least conflict with existing ocean uses and natural resources. The Territorial Sea Plan amendment adopted by LCDC identifies four "Renewable Energy Suitability Study Areas" where initial development of wave energy will be encouraged. When specific projects are proposed, developers will have to show that they will meet standards for protecting ecological resources, fishing and other existing uses, and coastal views. Marine renewable energy developers can also seek approval for projects in other areas off Oregon’s coast, but will have to meet more stringent standards.