The Elliott State Forest is Oregon’s first state protected forest located on the Oregon Coast Range near Coos Bay. A two and a half hour car ride from Eugene immerses one in the old growth rainforest. The Elliott is a popular hiking spot as well as a hunting and fishing destination. Federally endangered species such as the Coho Salmon, Northern Spotted Owl, and the Marbled Murrelet. Additionally, as one of the most temperate rainforests in the state, forests such as these are important for carbon sequestration.
Although in violation of state law, the state is looking to sell more than 82,500 acres for the Common School Fund for $220.8 million to timber companies. On December 13, the state land board will meet to officially decide the fate of the Elliott. Education and the funding of schools is important, but alternative funding must be explored. Not only is this sale a violation of state law, but the question we should be asking is with our current knowledge of climate change, why are we reversing our conservation practices?
Spaces such as these are not only recreational sanctuaries, but are environmental necessities protecting our planet.
Here’s how you can get involved:
Call: Governor Kate Brown: 503-378-4582, State Treasurer Ted Wheeler: 503-378-4329, Secretary of State Jeanne Atkins: 503-986-1523 and tell them you want the Elliott to remain in public lands.
Sign The Petition:
For more information about the Elliott: http://www.savetheelliott.com