Natural Resources
LWVOR Advocacy Positions
Air Quality—All segments of society (government, industry, agriculture and individual citizens) must share responsibility for improved air pollution abatement practices.
Offshore and Coastal Management—Responsible and responsive government management of the public’s coastal and nearshore natural resources shall be based upon:
A complete environmental assessment, cumulative impact analysis, and baseline data specific to Oregon.
Recognition of coastal states and local government’s rights, jurisdictions, and responsibilities to preserve and protect marine and coastal environment and economy.
Energy Conservation—LWVOR supports long-range planning for conservation and wise development of energy sources. The League believes the public should have an opportunity to influence decisions.
Nuclear Energy—The nuclear power program must be managed to protect current and future generations and to maintain an environment beneficial to life.
Forests—All benefits of the forests—ecological, human and economic—are inextricably interconnected
Hard Rock Mining—LWVOR recognizes society's need for key minerals, and also the potential harmful environmental, health, and human impacts that mining for these minerals can produce.
Land Use—Citizen participation, education, communication and ongoing reevaluation are essential elements in the comprehensive planning process. LWVOR supports a system of local government based upon constitutional home rule for metropolitan districts, counties, and cities.
Statewide Planning—LWVOR supports policies that promote both conservation and development of land as a natural resource, in accordance with Oregon’s land use goals.
Parks—A park’s system is an appropriate function of state government
Pesticides and Other Biocides—Pesticides and other biocides should be managed as interrelated parts of life-supporting ecosystems, and their use should be controlled.
Seismic Risks—All levels of government share the responsibility of coordinating, implementing and funding an effective program to mitigate Oregon’s earthquake and tsunami hazards. Priority must be given to mitigation that protects human life and safeguards critical life support systems.
Water Policy – Quality and Quantity—Water is a resource that should be managed for the benefit of the public and as sustainable habitat for all life forms. The League supports comprehensive long-range planning for conservation and management of ground and surface water and the improvement of water quality.
Water Resources of the Columbia River and the Columbia River Task Force—In order to meet the present and future water needs within the Columbia River Basin, comprehensive planning is essential.