Sad day for progressives…
by Peter BrayFebruary 22nd, 2006 at 03:28:10
As we all already know, Measure 37 is now law:
Over 66,000 acres—more than three times the size of Crater Lake National Park—are affected by Measure 37 claims. As of October 25, 2005, the State had received 1255 claims. Over 85% of the claims submitted to the State are for subdivisions and other land divisions, and almost 90% of the claims are to develop on farm and forest land.
Please reflect on how best to limit its damage in the years ahead. Consider these pro-environment small steps for the time being.
February 22nd, 2006 at 1:14 pm
Done.
March 22nd, 2006 at 9:08 am
Sixty-six thousand acres is one-tenth of one percent of the land area in Oregon.
March 22nd, 2006 at 10:19 am
The article of course should have said “The entire state of Oregon is possibly impacted by M37 claims.”
March 22nd, 2006 at 12:00 pm
Or, rather, “All privately owned land in Oregon is possibly impacted by M37 claims.” As for that article, well, as yesterday’s O pointed out, many new claims are now rolling in given the SC ruling.
March 30th, 2006 at 7:28 am
Forward-thinking Oregonians need to scramble to put farmland preservation referendums on the November ballot. (For the purpose of raising cash to purchase agricultural conservation easements and/or fund those pesky M37 compensation demands.) These can be organized at county and state levels, and usually result in a minimal tax increase, bond, or other financing package.
Before M37, ag preservation through easement purchase was not necessary because of the statewide planning program. With that program now virtually scrapped, Oregon needs to look at other methods. The easement purchase program is having great success in Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. While it is voluntary (and therefore wouldn’t stop M37 claims), it would offer compensation for those farmers who wish to continue farming.
Open space referendums have had great success in Oregon, and have helped protect acres of environmentally-sensitive land. Let’s add farmland to the list of resources which are at risk and need help. The deadline for November referendums is July. Sorry, I can’t help until I become an Oregon resident in July. Don’t worry, I’m moving within the urban growth boundary
March 30th, 2006 at 7:50 am
Here’s how some other states preserve farmland:
Maryland:
http://www.malpf.info/facts.html
New Jersey:
http://www.state.nj.us/agriculture/sadc/overview.htm
Pennsylvania:
http://www.agriculture.state.pa.us/agriculture/cwp/view.asp?a=3&q=128859