50 years of Community Engagement
The start of Oregon’s land use planning system
In the 1960s, Oregonians were increasingly troubled by the loss of farmland and forests across the state. Unbridled growth meant that urban development was sprawling across Oregon at a rapid pace. Oregon was not alone - this was a time when suburban development was quickly becoming commonplace across the United States. This type of sprawling development increased dependence on vehicles, increased commute times, placed strain on public resources and services, and eroded the agricultural land base and natural habitats that surrounded cities and towns.
Oregonians saw what was happening and were concerned about the direction the state was headed. With broad public input from residents across the state, Oregon established nineteen state and regional planning goals. These include protection of natural resources, preservation of agricultural land, and conservation of forestlands. This landmark statewide land use system was based on a simple concept: urban uses and development belong inside cities and towns, so rural lands can be preserved for farms, forests, and open space.
Community Engagement at the core of land use
The very first goal, Goal 1: Citizen Involvement, established broad rights for public participation in land use decisions. This requirement for community engagement sets Oregon apart from other states. Each city and county must have opportunities for widespread community engagement at all phases of the planning process. That means we get to determine how our landscapes and cities look and feel.
Much of LandWatch’s work relies on the collective action of informed and engaged Central Oregonians. We’ve seen the tangible impact Goal 1 has had in our region and communities. It’s why we see a clear line where the cities of Bend and Redmond end, and farmland begins. It’s why access to a local trail or two is always close by. It’s the reason why Oregon is protecting farmland better than surrounding states. It all adds up to an abundance of opportunity to grow, play, and thrive here in Central Oregon.
Celebrating 50 years
Join us Thursday, June 8th, as we celebrate our Abundant Oregon at a special event.
Featuring special guest speaker Robert Liberty, an expert in land use planning and sustainability, and Aimee Okotie-Oyekan, an interdisciplinary environmentalist and land use planner.
Enjoy live music from Joel Chadd and his band, goods and bites from regional producers, local makers, artists, and the opportunity to connect with the diverse community of folks who benefit directly from Oregon’s unique approach to land use.
We’ll reflect on 50 years gone by and discover how our land use planning system empowers us to face the current challenges of our time – from addressing the climate crisis to wildfire safety, water security, wildlife habitat and more.
Everyone is welcome - just be sure to register!