HB 2298

Abstract

Directs State Department of Fish and Wildlife to adopt by rule and administer program for authorizing voluntary projects for stream restoration and habitat improvement through construction of environmental restoration weirs. Exempts authorized projects from removal-fill permit. Exempts authorized projects from fish passage requirements in certain circumstances. Authorizes department to require fish passage as part of authorized project in certain circumstances. Authorizes department to require modification of environmental restoration weirs if found to adversely impact transportation infrastructure or planned transportation infrastructure. Authorizes department to require third-party monitoring of authorized projects. Provides that certain riparian work as part of authorized project is not subject to riparian management requirements under Oregon Forest Practices Act. Requires department to adopt rules establishing program in time for rules to become operative no later than one year after effective date of Act. Requires department to submit, no later than December 31, 2027, report to interim committees related to environment and natural resources of Legislative Assembly on extent and impact of program. Requires department to submit, no later than September 15, 2032, report to interim committees related to environment and natural resources of Legislative Assembly on assessments of conditions of qualifying streams affected by authorized voluntary projects and make recommendations for legislation. Declares emergency, effective on passage.