GERT Visits to Communities Prove Productive. Team Unites Directors from Five State Agencies

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1 Spring 2004 GERT Visits to Communities Prove Productive Team Unites Directors from Five State Agencies My travels around the state during the past year with other state agency directors who form the Governor s Economic Revitalization Team (GERT) have been very productive. The GERT unites agency directors from the Departments of Land Conservation and Development, Transportation, Environmental Quality, Housing and Community Services, Economic and Community Development, Agriculture, Consumer and Business Services, and State Lands to solve community economic development problems and generate jobs for Oregonians. Together, we ve traveled to Corvallis, Albany, Medford, Douglas County, Columbia County, Bend, Lebanon, Redmond and Prineville. In August, we ll head to Burns for a meeting with the Southeast Rural Alliance. I have found these trips to be invaluable because there s nothing like kicking the dirt, viewing the site and talking with local community leaders about what needs to be done and how to do it. One of Governor Kulongoski s highest priority is to increase the amount of industrial lands available for development. In May, the GERT approved 11 sites that were certified as industrial lands. These certified sites revolutionize how we can help businesses here create jobs and improve the supply of developable land. Construction must be able to proceed within less than six months on a certified site. Voluminous, exacting data and documents were assembled with the help of several state agencies, including DSL, as well as private sector and other local partners. Such information is similar to a business firm s rigorous due diligence when looking to expand or build a facility. You can check out OregonProspector.com to learn more about economic development opportunities throughout Oregon and a list of certified sites as well as other potential sites. In addition to my trips with the GERT, this year I have met with community leaders and educators and held public meetings in Lakeview, Burns, Washington County, Clackamas County, Lincoln City, Astoria, Wilsonville, Coos Bay, Bend, Portland, and Medford. I m looking forward to traveling around our great state and meeting with many of you in the months ahead.

2 Agency Submits Nine Legislative Concepts Comments Requested Prior to Final Filing Deadline DSL staff will develop nine legislative concepts into final form by early December and is seeking comment to aid in the process. DSL staff will provide updates on the legislative concept process at Land Board meetings through December. For more information, visit the DSL web site at Submit written comments on ANY concept to: Jeannette Holman, Assistant Director and Legislative Liaison (503) ext. 227 Following are concepts listed by program: South Slough Reserve 1. Add tribal member to South Slough Reserve Management Commission 2. Authorize DSL to impose fees for activities at South Slough to offset costs to the Common School Fund. Removal-Fill Program 3. Increase fees for the program, revise the fee structure to a more equitable schedule and authorize a new fee for the review and concurrence of wetland determination or delineation reports not accompanied by a permit application. Currently fees pay for less than percent of the program costs. 4. Grant final approval for DSL to assume administration of Section 404 of the federal Clean Water Act to eliminate duplicative state and federal permit requirements. 5. More closely align state exemptions with those allowed under federal law. Define circumstances when off-site wetland mitigation may be allowed without first considering on-site mitigation. Common School Fund Asset Management 6. Make several minor changes to correct inaccuracies.

3 Oregon Natural Heritage Program 7. Consider further transfer of functions to the OSU Natural Resources Institute or consider other options. Trust Property Program 8. Require landlords and mortuaries to notify DSL of the death of a person with no know heirs or will and make other minor changes. 9. Allow notice of assessment of a service change to be sent by first class mail rather than certified mail. Oregon Hosts Western States Land Conference School Fund Beneficiaries Hold Concurrent Sessions Oregon will host the semi-annual gathering of the Western States Land Commissioners Association July along with a concurrent conference for school supporters from Western states. DSL staff members are in charge of conference content and logistics for the WSLCA conference. The school supporter s sessions are coordinated by the Utah-based Citizens Land Alliance Supporting Schools (CLASS). Delegates from each group attend some joint sessions and activities. Both organizations have members from 23 Western states. The WSLCA theme reflects the dual focus of the conference: Balancing Public and Fiduciary Trust Responsibilities. Session topics will focus on tribal and state relations, ocean issues, legal issues and submerged and submersible lands. The CLASS conference, entitled From Dirt to Dough to Dividends, will feature speakers discussing the importance of beneficiary involvement in trust land and trust fund issues. While the registration deadline has passed, Gail Lowry or call (503) ext. 224 for more information. The 23 member states of WSLCA together manage 447 million acres of land, mineral right properties, and land beneath navigable waterways. Their activities support funding for public schools in each state.

4 The purpose of CLASS is to cultivate a network of educators and to share creative solutions to the management, investment and use of school land trust funds. Highlights of State Land Board Meetings February Meeting Update of Asset Management Plan Launched Land Board Receives Briefing on DSL s Process Originally adopted in 1995, DSL s Asset Management Plan was designed to improve the performance and efficiency of the Common School Fund s real estate assets. During their February meeting, the Land Board gave the go ahead for needed updates to the plan. The updates are scheduled to be formally adopted by the Land Board in February 2005 with proposals provided in late 2004 for public review. In other business, the Land Board: Received a presentation by Newport high school students on ocean issues. Heard reports on customer service and an agency sustainability plan. Initiated rulemaking to rescind administrative rules governing hydroelectric projects and amend rules governing special uses of state-owned land to include hydroelectric facilities. Adopted the Oregon Natural Heritage Plan. Approved permanent easements for highway improvement in the Upper Klamath Lake region. Approved DSL staff to appear before the Legislative Emergency Board. April Meeting Board Briefed on Common School Fund Performance Distribution Jumps to $53.5 million At the April Land Board meeting, the State Treasurer s Office reported that recovery of the stock market boosted the value of the Common School Fund from $665 million to $805 million during As a result, during the budget period, the total distribution to schools will be $53.5 million. The higher distributions will begin with the December 2004 allocation of $20.1 million. An identical amount will be sent in June Counties receive funds based on county population ages 4-20 for allocation to K-12 public schools. In other business, the Land Board:

5 Approved a request by Columbia County to change a limited-term easement to a permanent easement for the Westport Slough Bridge. Heard an update on streamlining of the state-federal Removal-Fill Permit Program. Adopted rules for unclaimed property and estates programs. Received a presentation regarding the U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy. Heard a status report on planning efforts to set future direction for the 86,000-acre Elliott State Forest near Coos Bay. Approved a request by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality to acquire a permanent easement for the first Portland Harbor superfund clean-up project on property known as the McCormick and Baxter site. Approved legislative concepts for further development for the 2005 legislative session. Adopted amendments to administrative rules governing freshwater wetland mitigation banks stemming from 2003 legislation. Authorized initiation of rulemaking to amend the rules governing the use of state-owned property. Heard a status report on a navigability study of the John Day River. Received a Secretary of State Audit Division report on state-owned rangeland. June Meeting Board: Forest and Rangeland Not for Sale To clarify their position on a cost-benefit study of selling or retaining the Elliott State Forest and a Secretary of State Audits Division recommendation regarding rangelands, the State Land Board issued statements at the June 8 meeting. The statements clarify that the Land Board does not intend to sell the Elliott State Forest nor does it plan to sell large tracts of currently leased rangelands. Land Board members have been receiving many questions on these two subjects, said DSL Director Ann Hanus. The intent of the statements was to leave no doubt about the future direction of the Land Board on these two important issues, Hanus said. Land Board Statement on Rangelands In March of this year, the Audits Division of the Secretary of State s office conducted an audit of State-owned rangelands. One of the recommendations contained in the audit report was for the State to evaluate each parcel of land for sale or exchange, and determine how best to maximize long-term revenue. We want to make clear that we have no intention of selling large tracts of currently leased rangelands. In accordance with the Land Board s Asset Management Plan, we will give priority to selling unleased smaller, isolated tracts of rangeland and a lower priority to selling a few small isolated leased tracts that are difficult to manage and make good business sense to sell. To assist in determining how best to maximize long-term revenue consistent with our fiduciary

6 duties to the Common School Fund, DSL is forming a grazing fee advisory committee. This committee will review the audit report findings about grazing fees, analyze whether current fees reflect a fair market value rate, and will make recommendations to Director Hanus regarding the fee formula and rates. Director Hanus will report the findings of the committee to the Land Board. The Department of State Lands staff has prepared a question and answer sheet about the audit that will provide more detailed information about the audit recommendations. Land Board Statement on the Elliott State Forest The Elliott State Forest has been and will continue to be a major asset for the Common School Fund. It yields a steady flow of new money into the Fund to help ensure a high-quality education for students throughout Oregon. The Land Board has no intention of selling the Elliott State Forest because of its importance to the Common School Fund portfolio. Recognizing the Land Board's fiduciary responsibility as trustees to the Common School Fund, the Land Board will proceed with a cost-benefit analysis on the value of the Elliott State Forest. This study will provide information important for determining a benchmark to meet the Land Board s fiduciary responsibility in the development of the Asset Management Plan. At the December 2003 meeting, the Land Board authorized the Department of State Lands and the Department of Forestry to complete a cost-benefit study of the Common School forestlands within the Elliott State Forest. The study will analyze the legal, financial and practical implications of selling the Elliott as well as provide strategic information useful for the development of the revised Elliott State Forest management plan, the Habitat Conservation Plan, and the Land Board's Asset Management Plan. In addition, the study will investigate any nonmarket costs and benefits of public ownership of the Elliott State Forest. The Department of State Lands and the Department of Forestry will contract with a qualified party to conduct the analysis. The analysis results will show the value of the Elliott State Forest in today's market place, recognizing the federal and state Endangered Species Act, and other state and federal law encumbrances. Board Requests Outreach on Rogue River Navigability Decision Expected at October Meeting Action regarding a navigability study of the upper Rogue River was postponed until the Land Board s next meeting, October 12, in order to provide time for DSL staff to supply more background information to local property owners and interested parties. Since the original request was submitted in 1997, Land Board members felt this step would be important for public understanding of why this action is being proposed after such a long time lag. In other business, the Land Board: Received preliminary findings on a navigability study of the John Day River. The Land Board will hold its December 14 meeting in Condon to allow public comment on the issue. Granted approval to submit the DSL proposed budget request. Recognized recipients of the newly created State Land Board Awards. Read statements clarifying the Land Board s resolve not to sell the Elliott State Forest or large tracts of currently leased rangeland.

7 Approved a permanent easement request by the Oregon Department of Transportation for realignment of a segment of Oregon Highway 20 in Malheur County. Approved amendments to administrative rules restricting public use of state lands, including overnight camping, open fires during periods of wildfire danger and the use of motor vehicles. Approved over-ride of a reversionary clause on land purchased by the Oregon Youth Authority in 1996 restricting OYA from selling the land to the Oregon Military Department or using it for other public needs. Initiated a review process of 10 isolated tracts of land in Wheeler, Malheur, Wallowa and Jackson counties in preparation for possible sale later this year. Granted approval to seek approval from the Legislative Emergency Board to apply for a federal grant from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to support DSL s streamlining efforts. Land Board Presents First Land Board Awards Five Recipients Honored at June 8 Land Board Meeting State Land Board members recognized recipients of a newly created State Land Board Awards program during the June 8 Land Board meeting in Salem. The new program was created late last year to promote and recognize responsible, sustainable stewardship of natural resources in three categories. Recipients of the Stream and Wetland Project awards also were honored June 9 at the Capitol Building in Salem. This event entitled Oregonians Working for Healthy Watersheds recognized grassroots accomplishments contributing to the goals of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds. Governor Kulongoski, Senate President Peter Courtney and House Speaker Karen Minnis spoke at the event, which honored award winners from six Oregon state natural resource agencies. The Land Board awards and recipients include: Property Lessee of 2003 Two recipients BC Excavation and Sand Sales, Rainier Craig Smith Craig Smith leases 60 acres of Columbia River shore near Rainier to store and process dredged sand. Smith maintains public access through this leasehold to adjacent Columbia River beaches. He has donated equipment and operator time to improve the area. Projects have included assisting with a large cleanup sponsored by the Friends of Dibblee Point, grading the public beach

8 access road, and blocking dirt roads that lead to dump sites and that encourage destructive offroad vehicle use. An emergency need for sand led Smith to first contact DSL about six years ago. Upon learning that the area at Dibblee Point was available for lease, he applied and was awarded a lease in Smith processes the sand for cement and asphalt production as well as masonry sand. Some is sold for use on golf courses. Sand processing now accounts for about 40 percent of the business for his firm, which also does site preparation for rural residences and commercial and industrial developments. He said DSL staff has been good to work with. He advised other lease holders to communicate regularly with DSL staff and establish a close working relationship. Craig Smith, right, works with the Rainier Chief of Police during a volunteer cleanup of Dibblee Point. Windsor Rock Products, Keizer Bill McCall, President and General Manager Bill McCall has operated Windsor Rock Products since 1995 Windsor Rock Products of Keizer leases a parcel of land adjacent to the Willamette River for an aggregate processing plant and associated buildings. Since assuming the lease in 1995, Windsor Rock has actively marketed the site's products, increasing royalties to the Common School Fund from $1,500 per month to $12,000. The firm has used innovative restoration methods in managing the property. They invested $140,000 plus staff time to clean up the site and improve facilities. McCall said he launched this company as part of a family-owned business after spending 15 years as a highway construction contractor. The venture was inspired by a desire to work closer to home and to manage his own business. McCall said part of the success formula for the business has been to respect the value of being a good steward of the resource and being a good neighbor. Five months after assuming the lease, the 1996 flood struck. It was a good learning

9 experience, he said. We found that some of our operation needs to be portable and that we can withstand such flooding if we pay attention to the river dynamics, McCall said. He is interested in reclamation of the site for fish and wildlife habitat after mining ceases and has purchased land adjacent to the property. We have a long-term commitment to the area, he added. He demonstrates commitment to the industry by serving as board chair of the Oregon Concrete and Aggregate Producers Association. Royalties from Windsor Rock average $12,000 monthly for the Common School Fund Stream Project 2003 Washington County DLUT Operations Division Ted Reese, P.E., Project Engineer Janet Oatney, Project Coordinator Ted Reese, PE, and Janet Oatney check progress of the Murtaugh Creek project that restored 7.5 miles of fish habitat The Murtaugh Creek Fish Passage Project restores about 7.5 miles of prime fish habitat. It also features an Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife-sponsored barrier removal project to be accomplished at a later date. The county's project replaced an existing culvert that was a fish barrier. The stream channel was reconstructed to match the existing, pristine stream habitat. Project managers used the fish removal process as a training opportunity for ODOT, ODFW and county staff. The project included considerable local resident and other agency involvement. The

10 site was mitigation for the Oregon Department of Transportation s Highway 26 Sylvan to Camelot project. Janet Oatney has worked for Washington Co. 17 years and Ted Reese has been employed by the county 4.5 years. They have a combined experience of eight years working on 25 individual county fish passage culverts and stream crossing projects. Oatney said a key to success of such projects is to develop a multidisciplinary team. Key staff must know the geology and hydrology of the entire stream, not just the project site, she added. Reese and Oatney believe the project showcases industry s progress in environmentally friendly transportation projects. Wetland Project 2003 Two Recipients Mud Slough Wetland Mitigation Bank Rickreal Owners Mark and Debbie Knaupp

11 Debbie and Mark Knaupp s wetland mitigation bank has diversified their farming operation. Bank owners Mark and Debbie Knaupp have taken degraded wetlands that have been drained for agricultural purposes over the past 60 years and returned them to a native Willamette Valley wet prairie and marsh ecosystem in less than eight years. For the second consecutive year, the 56-acre bank surpassed all of its performance standards. The owners have developed partnerships with public and non-profit agencies and given numerous tours. They plan a significant expansion of the bank this year. Both raised on farms, the Knaupps have acquired five separate contiguous properties in the past 20 years. They entered some of the property into the Wetland Reserve Program in 1996 and developed a wetland mitigation bank in They said these uses better suited the wetland soil types on some of their land than conventional farming. The restored wetlands also lure increasing numbers of Canada geese from their nearby grass seed fields, reducing crop damage. The new uses also diversify their finances with mitigation bank credit sales and returns from recreational activity on wetland reserve property. After spending years managing invasive plants and adapting to the natural direction some of the sites have taken, the Knaupps are happy with the results. We enjoy the wildlife species that call the wetland home and the projects gave our children the experience of being good stewards and giving back something enjoyable to our community, they said. The mitigation bank has converted degraded wetlands and returned them to a native Willamette Valley wet prairie and marsh ecosystem in less

12 than eight years. Sodhouse Farms, Burns vicinity adjacent to Malheur National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters. Partner owners: Jett Blackburn, Burns, and William Ellis and Neil Goldsmith, Bend Principal Sodhouse Farm collaborators are, from left: Andy Root (contractor) and partner landowners Jett Blackburn, Neil Goldsmith, and William Ellis This project enhances wetlands and hydrologically reconnects formerly farmed lands to Malheur Lake. The project restores 265 acres of wetlands and enhances 170 acres of prior converted wetlands. Exotic and nuisance vegetation control was used as well as innovative carp control. The partner owners worked with the Natural Resources Conservation Service to coordinate the Wetland Reserve Program project. Blackburn said that over the four-year period of the project, he learned the importance of building good working relationships with other agencies and adjacent landowners. He also stressed the importance of hiring highly experienced contractors to do the work. The partners hired Andy s Custom Work of Burns because the firm had prior experience with this type of project, Blackburn said. The partners retained 100 acres of private land that also is being restored. They hope to open it to the public for tours next year. It will extend more than a mile into the refuge and should provide prime bird-watching opportunities, he added. Wildlife soon took up residence following release of water into the

13 restored wetlands adjoining Malheur Lake Land Board Presents First Land Board Awards Property Lessee of 2003 Two recipients BC Excavation and Sand Sales, Rainier Craig Smith Ann Hanus, DSL Director; Secretary of State Bill Bradbury; Mr. Smith; Gov. Kulongoski; State Treasurer Randall Edwards Windsor Rock Products, Keizer Bill McCall, President and General Manager

14 Ann Hanus, DSL Director; Secretary of State Bill Bradbury; Mr. McCall; Gov. Kulongoski; State Treasurer Randall Edwards Stream Project 2003 Washington County DLUT Operations Division Ted Reese, P.E., Project Engineer Janet Oatney, Project Coordinator

15 Ann Hanus, DSL Director; Secretary of State Bill Bradbury; Mr. Reese and Ms. Oatney; Gov. Kulongoski; State Treasurer Randall Edwards Wetland Project 2003 Two Recipients Mud Slough Wetland Mitigation Bank Rickreal Owners Mark and Debbie Knaupp

16 Ann Hanus, DSL Director; Secretary of State Bill Bradbury; Mr. and Mrs. Knaupp; Gov. Kulongoski; State Treasurer Randall Edwards Sodhouse Farms, Burns vicinity adjacent to Malheur National Wildlife Refuge Headquarters. Partner owners: Jett Blackburn, Burns, and William Ellis and Neil Goldsmith, Bend

17 Ann Hanus, DSL Director; Secretary of State Bill Bradbury; Mr. Ellis, Mr. Goldsmith, and Mr. Blackburn; Gov. Kulongoski; State Treasurer Randall Edwards Class Practices Chainsaw Skills on State Land Students Clear Dead Trees Near Bend at No Cost A fortunate combination of needs provided a training site for Central Oregon Community College students and resulted in removal of dead and dying trees from state-owned land on the eastern outskirts of Bend at no cost. Instructor Jay Jabson called and asked if students in his chainsaw class could remove trees along Stevens Road at the same time I was starting to look for someone to tackle this project, said Chris Bedsaul, DSL property manager. The timing of his call couldn t have been better, Bedsaul added. Bedsaul said he recently had identified 66 trees that needed to be removed due to proximity to a power line, the road and a water line valve station. The class teaches tree felling, chain saw operation and safety techniques. Most of the students will work as firefighters, Jabson said. The students worked two eight-hour days to fulfill class requirements.

18 Logs to Lumber Mobile Milling of Bend handled cleanup in exchange for salvage of larger diameter logs. Community college students prepare to practice chain saw skills on a dead tree on state land near Bend. (Photo by Chris Bedsaul) DSL Contracts with SOLV for Cleanup Services Volunteers Mobilized to Work on Public Lands DSL has contracted with SOLV to recruit and supervise volunteer cleanup work on state-owned property through next summer. This partnership will help DSL be a responsible land manager and good neighbor, said Steve Purchase, assistant director for Field Operations. With a limited staff, there s no way we can tackle these kinds of on-the-ground projects, he said. We really appreciate the coordination provided by SOLV and the work done by volunteers to improve these public lands, he added. In the first phase of the partnership, DSL was one of the sponsors of SOLV's Down by the Riverside cleanup event in late May. More than 16,000 people volunteered for projects statewide at 400 sites. Some of the sites were lands along waterways managed by DSL. SOLV is a non-profit organization that links government agencies, businesses and individual volunteers to programs and projects that enhance the livability of Oregon. It was founded by Governor Tom McCall in For more information, visit or call (503)

19 Governor Theodore Kulongoski was among 16,000 volunteers participating in SOLV's Down by the Riverside cleanup event, which DSL helped sponsor in a new partnership agreement. Bend Staff Members Put Their Kids to Work In a twist on the annual Take Kids to Work Day in April, DSL s Eastern Region staff members in Bend put their kids to work planting trees at a wetlands restoration project on a cold, snowy day. Five students ranging in age from 5 to 18 participated in the event. Students and staff heard a presentation by the Deschutes National Forest staff on a wetland restoration project along Tumalo Creek, which is located west of Bend. Afterwards, the group planted 80 tree starts in the area. Following lunch, the group looked for bats in caves on DSL land near Bend.

20 Randy Wiest, rangeland manager, and his 6-year-old son Quinton plant trees as snow falls at a wetlands restoration project near Bend during the April Take Your Kids to Work Day. (Photo by Lyssa Pustis, daughter of E. Region Field Operations Manager Nancy Pustis) River Navigability Study Update John Day and Upper Rogue Under Discussion The State Land Board in June directed staff to conduct additional outreach to local residents before deciding to start a navigability study of the Upper Rogue. Board members agreed to discuss the issue during the next scheduled meeting October 12. They directed staff members to send a letter to owners of property adjacent to the affected portions of the Rogue River and to interested parties. The letter will outline reasons and history explaining why the Land Board is considering a navigability study now, since the Josephine District Attorney submitted the original request in Board members also received an update on a draft staff report on the navigability of a 174-mile section of the John Day River in north central Oregon. The preliminary findings conclude that the segment is navigable. The Land Board will hold its December 14 meeting in Condon to allow public comment on the issue before making a final decision in early State Removal-Fill Rules Changed Process Expedited for State Bridge Projects and Wetlands Recently adopted Removal-Fill Permit program rules allow simpler application processes for

21 state bridge projects and some wetland projects, encourage use of wetland mitigation banks, and require quicker permit decisions. Two rule changes create simplified permit processes (known as General Authorizations) for Oregon Department of Transportation bridge projects and for minor impacts to wetlands. The ODOT bridge process applies to: narrowly defined projects impacting less than 5,000 cubic yards of material, permanent fills in wetlands no larger than one-half acre and removal of more than 5,000 cubic yards of material where necessary to improve or restore stream channel flow. This will help ODOT meet tight deadlines for repairing hundreds of bridges on the state highway system, said John Lilly, DSL assistant director. A General Authorization for certain wetlands applies to minor impacts to freshwater wetlands within Urban Growth Boundaries or Urban Unincorporated Communities. To be eligible, the affected wetland must be less than one-tenth acre, have no state or federal listed endangered species present and meet other conditions. Other changes make permanent numerous temporary rules adopted last fall in response to 2003 legislation, Lilly said. The rule shortens the time DSL staff is allowed to determine whether a Removal-Fill Permit application is complete from 40 days to 30 days. Rules for State Land Use Restrictions Updated Changes to administrative rules on use of state lands were adopted recently. Rules were clarified and reorganized for areas such as 10 state-owned estuaries where restrictions have included overnight camping, open fires during periods of wildfire danger and the use of motor vehicles. The changes also will require closures to be authorized by the State Land Board. Previously, the agency director had authority to close areas temporarily. The changes also specifically restrict the use of additional areas of land permanently, including portions of the Chetco, Columbia, Sandy and Willamette rivers. The areas were closed to address problems reported by users, local landowners, DSL staff, or representatives of other agencies or law enforcement officials. Researchers Complete Oyster Impact Study South Slough NERR Scientists Work at Humboldt Bay By Victoria Poulton, Research Assistant Researchers at Sough Slough NERR are completing a study that will help oyster growers minimize the impacts of oyster aquaculture on estuarine environments. For the last three years, Steve Rumrill, research coordinator, and Victoria Poulton, research assistant at South Slough NERR, braved foggy nights, driving rainstorms, and 4 a.m. low tides to slog through deep intertidal mud.

22 These scientists from Oregon contributed their expertise to tackle a pressing management problem in Humboldt Bay, Calif. South Slough NERR became involved because Humboldt Bay is part of the Lower Columbian biogeographic region (Astoria to Cape Mendocino) served by the reserve. Oyster growers in Humboldt Bay historically raised oysters on the bottom of bays and estuaries, but were recently required by federal, state, and local management agencies to elevate them to long-lines suspended about two feet off the bottom. This policy is intended to free up habitat for eelgrass (Zostera marina), an underwater flowering plant that provides important nursery and feeding habitat for young salmonids, Dungeness crabs, and other commercially and ecologically valued species. South Slough NERR received a grant from the US Department of Agriculture / Western Regional Aquaculture Center to measure the effects of relocating oyster culture from the bottom to suspended long-lines. Rumrill and Poulton worked with oyster growers to establish four experimental long-line plots with different spacing between the lines, as well as control plots and reference areas. They collected data on eelgrass health, invertebrate abundance, and water quality around commercial oyster culture. After visiting their study sites eight times between August 2001 and August 2003, Rumrill and Poulton found that eelgrass percent cover and shoot density increased with wider spaces between oyster long-lines. The narrowest 1.5- and 2.5-foot spacings showed the lowest eelgrass presence. Where long-lines were 5 and 10 feet apart, eelgrass cover and density were similar to the reference areas. Eelgrass growing in the oyster bottom culture area was patchy, but similar to long-lines spaced at 2.5 and 5 feet. The number and kinds of invertebrates differed over sampling dates and among the different long-lines. Sites with oysters tended to have high densities of invertebrates but were patchier and less diverse than eelgrass reference sites. Information about invertebrate life histories and habitat requirements may reveal the underlying reasons for their pattern of occurrence and, along with the eelgrass data, help to explain how oyster culture affects estuarine plants and animals. South Slough NERR Research Assistant Victoria Poulton works with oyster grower Pong Xayavong at Humboldt Bay, CA. This experimental plot contained long-lines spaced five feet apart. Oyster clusters on the long-lines are draped with algae and eelgrass blades.

23 New Staff by Alicia Caldwell Salem Office: Janet Seleznoff After working as a temporary employee for Trust Property off and on over the past two years, Janet Seleznoff has joined DSL in a limited duration position as a Trust Property assistant with hopes of the position becoming permanent next biennium. Janet says that after working in Trust Property, "I knew I wanted to get a position in this section. I think the work is interesting and I really like the people I work with." Before coming to Trust Property, Janet earned an AA in Visual Communications at Chemeketa Community College and worked for the Salem School District, the Department of Corrections, and the Department of Justice. Janet adds, "Born and raised in southern California, I moved to the Salem area with my family 20 years ago. I love it here." Jim Grimes Tanya E.S. Tuchardt Jim Grimes, DSL s new ODOT coordinator, graduated from Humboldt State University with a Bachelor of Science in Fisheries degree and has dedicated much of his working life to understanding and improving watershed processes with a range of fish and wildlife management agencies. Coming from a position as habitat biologist with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, Jim says he sought a position with DSL "to gain a better understanding of waterway/wetland permitting processes and to better understand how wetland functions and processes relate to watershed ecology/development." Jim brings 21 years of experience with state and federal resource management to DSL. Seeking a position in the northwest so her family could "once again enjoy all the West Coast has to offer," Tanya Tuchardt has joined DSL as a field auditor. Tanya attended Golden Gate University, the American Institute of Banking, and Northwest Christian College. During the past five years, Tanya worked for the State of Nebraska, managing all state ward accounts in excess of 2 million dollars, assisting the State Treasurer as a financial specialist, and working as an accountant with the Department of Corrections. Most recently, Tanya worked as a master settlement agreement specialist, ensuring the compliance of licensed tobacco wholesalers and distributors with the MSA and related laws. Tanya says, "It's truly a blessing to be surrounded by such wonderful people and co-workers. I could not have asked for a better place to work." Courtney Kelley Originally joining DSL as a compliance specialist, Courtney Kelley now works as DSL s resource coordinator for Marion, Polk and Benton counties. A Willamette University Environmental Science alumnus, Kelley worked for two

24 years in Idaho as a project assistant with Intermountain Aquatics and three years in Wyoming as a project manager and wetland scientist with Biota Research and Consulting. Although Kelley enjoyed working as a consultant, she pursued a position with DSL to gain experience with Oregon s regulatory processes and work with "an incredibly diverse spectrum of knowledgeable and experienced individuals." Kelley adds that she enjoys being back in the Pacific Northwest and is "always game for a naturalizing session, regardless of the weather." Promotions Liz Dhillon to permanent office specialist 2 from limited duration office specialist 2, Trust Property. Courtney Kelley to natural resources coordinator 3 from natural resources specialist 1, Field Operations. Nicole Peirce to natural resources coordinator 3 from compliance specialist 1, Field Operations. Loree Willnow to administrative assistant from office specialist 2, Trust Property. Cy Young to permanent property manager position from limited duration property manager, Field Operations. Kirk Jarvie Fills New Economic Revitalization Liaison Position DSL natural resources coordinator since mid-2001, Kirk Jarvie has been selected to fill a new economic revitalization liaison position to coordinate projects with the Governor s Office of Economic Revitalization. The position, approved by the 2003 Legislature, focuses on development of industrial lands. Jarvie coordinates the agency s work to implement an expedited process for identifying and mitigating loss of wetlands or other waters of the state on sites identified for industrial development. Prior to DSL, Jarvie worked 13 years for Brown, Vence & Associates. They specialize in solid and hazardous waste and energy conservation projects. He holds a Pennsylvania State bachelor s degree in environmental resources management. His University of Pennsylvania mater s degree is in appropriate technology and economics. The newly created position is limited duration, expiring in June of Transfers

25 Louise Bos to natural resources coordinator 3, Salem, from same position in Bend office. Recognition Kathy Verble Chosen for Soil Scientists Office DSL Wetland Specialist Kathy Verble has been elected vice president/president-elect of the Oregon Society of Soil Scientists. Verble will serve as vice president for one year, then as president the following year. She is a certified professional soil scientist. Her master s thesis work prior to joining DSL was on slope wetland soils. In Memory DSL Staff and Customers Saddened by April Death of Larry Potter At the time of his death, Potter served as a property manager. Following are excerpts from a letter to Potter s family written by Director Ann Hanus and Field Operations Assistant Director Steve Purchase that was read at the memorial service: When hired at DSL in 1993 as an administrative assistant, Larry noted that his education was from the school of hard knocks life. He was a star performer from the very beginning receiving two promotions within his first year with the agency. Throughout his state career, Larry exemplified a helpful attitude and commitment to get it done. His work assignments ranged from fairly simple leases of waterfront property to long-term and complex projects such as deepening of the Columbia River shipping channel. Whether a simple or difficult assignment, Larry s approach was always practical, friendly and intensely focused on getting results. Larry was repeatedly described by his supervisors as hard working and dedicated to providing great customer service. He wholeheartedly worked with many agencies and landowners to restore wetlands and creeks in northwest Oregon. Larry will be missed by his co-workers at DSL, but we always will remember his dedication and it will help inspire us to carry on without him.

26 Director Hanus also read a letter of sympathy to Potter s family signed by State Land Board members. Larry Potter at state-owned Dibblee Point on the Columbia River--one of his favorite places in Oregon. Temporary Summer Staff Temporary Staff Members Assist with Various Projects Seven temporary staff members have joined DSL this summer to help various units with special summer projects: Alicia Caldwell, born and raised in Oregon and an undergraduate student at Washington University in St. Louis, is interning with DSL s communications coordinator. Alicia assists with publications, web site projects, customer service surveys and seminar promotion. High school junior Kyle Roach and sophomore Sailee Clemens are working with the South Slough education coordinator through the Marshfield High School Science and Engineering Program. Kyle and Sailee help staff conduct field surveys of the North Creek drainage for wildlife, plants, historical cultural remains, and other significant features. Anna Maria Pinto, a graduate student at Willamette University, is working with DSL s personnel manager on the development of an agency training plan. Anna Maria is volunteering her time to gain more experience in the areas of training and employee motivation, diversity awareness and diversity recruitment efforts. Stephen Jankowski and recent college graduates Ross Adams and Genevieve Hubert are working with the Rangeland Management Program on a number of projects. Stephen is performing archeological survey work on proposed rangeland improvement projects. Ross is assisting in the planning stages of range improvement projects and gathering field data for analysis. Genevieve is helping with the collection of field data and will later assist with the

27 mapping of noxious weeds and archeological surveys. Staff Praise Compiled by Alicia Caldwell Heather Lester, education program specialist, South Slough From Rich Hamel, Bandon Lions Club: In March, Hamel ed glowing remarks for an outstanding presentation to the Bandon Lions Club, writing it was one of the better, probably the best, we have had for several months. Hamel also noted that he received many favorable comments from attendees following the meeting and applauded Heather s ability to communicate well with a group of older citizens on a one-to-one personal basis before and after her presentation. From Colten Shoemaker: Dear, Heather Thank you for helping us at South Slough. It was very nice of you. I am going to have a book published about an adventure at South Slough. I will send you a copy. Tell Tall Tom that he should call a line a snake instead of a centipede. (Colten included a lovely drawing of the South Slough mud flats, as well.) Tom Gaskill, South Slough manager, Tory Poulton, estuarine habitat research assistant, and Heather Lester From Kevin Cellura, Marshfield High School science teacher: In March, Cellura sent a letter of thanks for the presentations Tom, Tori, and Heather gave to his fish and wildlife classes. It was very helpful for the students to learn the birding skills and ecology as well as to see professionals in your field, Cellura wrote. Tina Wold, Field Operations support, and Nancy Harper, receptionist Tina and Nancy were anonymously commended for just fantastic service on a DSL customer service survey. Deborah Sinnett, lead auditor, Trust Property From Gene Leverton, Portland: As a private business development consultant, Leverton periodically documents Columbia River sand removals. In February, Leverton wrote, Deborah has been consistently responsive, accurate and timely in helping me meet my deadlines. This positive, cooperative attitude... is most appreciated, and speaks highly of how your agency operates. Natalia Scheratski, estate administrator, Trust Property From Attorney David R. Anderson, Reedsport: In February, Anderson sent the director a letter of commendation for Natalia s assistance in locating the heirs of a deceased client. Anderson wrote, Throughout the heir location process, Ms. Scheratski was very professional and extremely pleasant. Her cooperation and assistance were of the highest quality and greatly appreciated. Nicole Kielsmeier, administrative specialist, Policy and Planning From Justin Douglas, Parametrix, Inc.: In February, Douglas commended Nicole s professional

28 and dependable assistance, writing, I have had the pleasure of working with Nicole over the past several months. She has always been of great help and prompt in her assistance to our firm.... As we continue to work on this project over the next half year, it is comforting to know that Nicole... is at DSL. John Lilly, assistant director, and Kirk Jarvie, economic revitalization liaison From John E. Hitt, Lebanon City administrator: Following completion of an interagency wetland delineation project in the Lebanon area, Hitt wrote, It has been a pleasure working with John Lilly and Kirk Jarvie of DSL.... We believe that this project sets a pattern for others to follow and well demonstrates the effectiveness of interdepartmental and intergovernmental cooperation. Cyndi Wickham, Trust Property manager From Representative Betsy Close: In January, Rep. Close, ed Cyndi her thanks for tracking down funds from a constituent s closed bank account. Rep. Close wrote, Thank you for your good work in helping my constituent. I appreciate your quick work on this. Jeff Kroft, policy development specialist, Policy and Planning Jeff received an anonymous commendation on a DSL customer service survey for prompt response to an contact and quick delivery of requested materials. Nicole Peirce, resource coordinator, Field Operations From Paul Fredericks, Bureau of Land Management: In May, Fredericks sent his thanks to Nicole for speaking about DSL s removal-fill permit process at the Oregon/Washington Bureau of Land Management Engineering Conference. He wrote, You did an outstanding job... thank you for clearing your schedule at the last minute to make time to speak at our conference. Lori Warner, Field Operations manager, and Gordon Dunkeld, resource coordinator From Terry Colvin, City of Eugene: Colvin ed Lori and Gordon after receiving authorization for Eugene s Dragonfly Bend Enhancement Project, writing, we... want to express our appreciation for the timely and helpful manner in which [our permit] was processed. DSL Removal-Fill Program Staff From Alan Murray, White Rock Resort, Curry County: I found the staff at DSL very professional and knowledgeable and at no time did I ever feel that I was given a run around or left hanging with unanswered questions. I feel that the staff did a very good job and did not make the process any harder than need be. Summer Unclaimed Property Seminars Participants Choose From Two Sessions The Trust Property Section will offer educational seminars this summer to help businesses and organizations prepare for filing unclaimed property reports in October. Seminars are scheduled for: Bend, August 11

29 Medford, August 12 Portland, August 18, 20, 23 and September 13 Salem, August 25 and 26 Eugene, August Click here for more information or call (503) Be sure to register at least a week in advance! Choose between the morning and afternoon sessions ($15 half-day) or attend the full seminar ($25 full-day): Morning session overview of unclaimed property for newcomers and those wanting a refresher. Afternoon session in-depth discussion of due diligence, third-party administrators, reporting/record keeping, self-audit, and policy and legislative changes, as well as breakout sessions for industry-specific topics. All participants receive a binder with presentation handouts, step-by-step instructions, forms, and references to free managing/reporting software. For more information on unclaimed property reporting: This DSL website provides more information about holder reporting requirements and access to forms for filing your October report. You also may call the agency at (503) This site provides links to other state unclaimed property programs. Here you'll find a free software package that creates unclaimed property reports that can be filed in any state electronically. Click on "Holder Reporting System." Trust Property Section Forms Advisory Committee The Trust Property Section has appointed an advisory committee to assist with outreach and marketing projects. The 15-member group held its first meeting in late May. Members represent statewide professional organizations, state agencies, attorneys, corporations and health care. The group will meet twice annually, but will conduct business by between meetings, according to Trust Property Section Manager Cyndi Wickham. She said she plans to create a similar group to assist with issues related to estate management in the near future. Missing Money?

30 To find out if the state is holding unclaimed property in your name, click on "Check for Unclaimed Property" on the DSL Web site at: No Web access? Send your name, current and former addresses and daytime phone number to: Division of State Lands, 775 Summer St. NE, Salem OR The list is updated regularly and contains more than 725,000 names with accounts valued at nearly $145 million. Claimants can expect a response in days. "We've been working diligently to reduce the turn-around time for Internet claims, which has exceeded 130 days in recent months," said Cyndi Wickham, Trust Property Section manager. Wetland Planning Guidebook Now Available DSL and DLCD Provide Assistance for Communities The Department of State Lands and Department of Land Conservation and Development recently published a guidance booklet for communities that are working on wetland resources in their comprehensive plan. The guidebook will help city planners, planning commissioners, and citizens interested in coordinated planning for land uses in or near wetland and riparian areas in their communities. To assist local efforts, DSL and DLCD have cooperated to integrate and coordinate the statewide land use planning program and state and federal wetland regulatory programs. When incorporated into local comprehensive land use plans, the wetland and riparian inventories and local protection mechanisms provide reliable information and certainty for landowners interested in developing their property. Wetlands perform many important functions in urban areas and are valued for the services they provide. Wetlands act as natural water purifiers. Many wetlands can reduce the damages caused by flooding by absorbing and storing floodwater. Some wetlands provide food or resting areas important to fish. Others provide recreation opportunities. The guidebook does not create any new policies or requirements. Rather, it presents a thorough explanation of existing state administrative rules related to wetland planning. Only a limited number of guidebooks were printed, but CD s are available and can be used to print additional copies. To request one, contact Dana Field at ext or . Northwest Hosts Wetlands Science Conference International Event To Be Held in Seattle July The Pacific Northwest Chapter is hosting the 25th International Conference of the Society of Wetlands Scientists, and invites the public to participate in the week-long meeting. DSL's Dana Field serves as northwest SWS chapter president and is assisting the conference