Backcountry Hunters & Anglers is fighting to keep the 93,000 acre Elliott State Forest in public hands. The 140-square mile forest located north of Coos Bay contains some of the finest Roosevelt elk, Blacktail deer, and wild salmon habitat in the state and contains rich stands of mature and old growth timber. It is cherished by those who enjoy all outdoor activities including hunters & anglers.
On August 13, 2015, the State Land Board approved a resolution to sell this forest to raise money for the Common School Fund. The forest is estimated to be worth between $285 and $400 million dollars. While the state wants to sell this land to an entity that will protect recreational access, older forest stands and watersheds, this is not guaranteed. These rich stands of trees have been coveted by lumber companies for years. If lumber companies purchased this land, recreational users would lose access or have to pay high fees to access it, as evidenced by actions taken by lumber companies on lands surrounding the Elliott.
We therefore petition the State Land Board, Governor Kate Brown, Secretary of State Jeanne P. Atkins, and State Treasurer Ted Wheeler to sell only to entities like public land trusts or other interests that will commit to balanced management, preserve public access and protect the values of our wild public lands, waters, and wildlife for future generations.
Keep the Elliott State Forest in Public Hands
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