Monday, March 9, 2026
The American Forest Resource Council (AFRC) has announced strong support for new federal legislation designed to restore active and sustainable management of federal timberlands in western Oregon. The proposal, known as the O&C Renewal Act, was introduced by Cliff Bentz, a member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Oregon.
AFRC says the legislation would reaffirm the original purpose of the Oregon and California Lands Act of 1937 and restore responsible forestry across more than two million acres of public lands.
The organization believes the bill provides a practical path forward. It focuses on forest health, job creation, and rural economic stability.
According to AFRC leadership, the O&C lands were originally designated for sustained yield timber production. The forests were meant to be actively managed. Revenue generated from timber harvests was intended to support surrounding counties.
For decades, that system helped fund schools, public safety, and infrastructure projects across western Oregon.
However, AFRC states that current federal policies have reduced active management on these lands. As a result, timber supply has declined and local economies have been affected.
AFRC President Travis Joseph said the legislation restores clarity around congressional intent. He described the proposal as a balanced approach to forest stewardship.
Joseph noted that the O&C lands are among the most productive timberlands globally. Proper management can deliver both environmental and economic benefits.
The legislation directs the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to update its Resource Management Plans (RMPs) for western Oregon forests.
These plans guide how federal lands are managed for timber production, conservation, and recreation.
AFRC has argued that existing plans limit sustainable forestry. Current policies place about 80 percent of the O&C lands outside sustained yield timber management.
Industry advocates say that restriction has sharply reduced harvest levels.
Forestry experts estimate the forests could produce around 1.2 billion board feet of timber annually under sustainable management practices.
Yet only a fraction of that potential is currently realized.
AFRC highlights the impact of reduced timber production on rural communities across western Oregon.
Lower harvest levels have contributed to mill closures and job losses in several counties. Timber-related revenues have also declined. County budgets have been affected.
Many local governments once relied on timber receipts from federal lands to support essential services.
Schools and infrastructure programs were funded through those revenues. Public safety budgets were also supported.
AFRC says restoring predictable timber supply could help stabilize these communities.
Short sentences matter here. Rural counties need reliable revenue streams. Forestry jobs support families.
The U.S. Department of the Interior recently announced plans to revise the current resource management plans for western Oregon. This move was welcomed by AFRC.
The department’s review signals potential increases in active forest management. Timber supply could rise if revisions are implemented.
Under the O&C Renewal Act, the administration would be required to complete the revision within two years.
The updated plans must follow the sustained yield framework outlined in the 1937 law.
County governments would also participate in the planning process as cooperating agencies.
That inclusion has been strongly supported by AFRC.
AFRC also stresses the connection between active management and forest resilience.
Overcrowded forests can become unhealthy. Fuel loads increase when trees grow too densely.
Wildfire risks rise under those conditions.
Joseph explained that a lack of management does not protect forests. Instead, unmanaged forests may become vulnerable to large-scale fires.
Responsible forestry practices, including thinning and harvesting, can improve forest health.
The legislation would also preserve cooperative wildfire protection agreements with the State of Oregon.
These partnerships have long supported wildfire prevention and response efforts.
AFRC believes the bill also aligns with broader national goals for domestic timber production.
The United States imports significant volumes of wood products each year. Some imports are produced under weaker environmental standards.
Expanding responsible forestry at home could reduce reliance on foreign supply.
Manufacturing jobs could be supported as well.
AFRC views the legislation as an opportunity for bipartisan collaboration. Forest health, rural jobs, and wildfire resilience affect many communities.
AFRC thanked Representative Bentz for introducing the legislation and said it will continue working with policymakers and stakeholders.
The organization plans to engage with Congress, federal agencies, counties, and industry groups during the legislative process.
According to AFRC, sustainable forestry remains the best path forward for western Oregon’s forests and communities.
Active management was intended when the O&C lands were created. AFRC believes the O&C Renewal Act can help restore that vision.
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Tags: AFRC, BLM resource management plans, O&C Renewal Act, Oregon timber industry, western Oregon timberlands, woodworking industry
