ORS 196.668
Legislative findings
(1)
Wetlands provide a natural means of flood and storm damage protection through the absorption and storage of water during high runoff periods, thereby reducing flood crests and preventing loss of life and property;(2)
Wetlands provide essential breeding, spawning, rearing, feeding, nesting and wintering habitats for a major portion of this state’s fish and wildlife;(3)
Wetlands provide essential habitat for waterfowl using the Pacific Flyway and for the rearing of salmon and other anadromous and resident fish;(4)
Wetlands act as accumulation areas for sediments which retain nutrients and other pollutants that may prevent entry of the pollutants into other waterways;(5)
Wetlands provide a valuable public service of maintaining clean water by retaining nutrients, metals and toxic materials from the water to protect water quality;(6)
Wetlands provide significant opportunities for environmental and ecological research, public recreation and education and provide scenic diversity and aesthetic value as open space and areas of visual enjoyment;(7)
Much of this state’s original wetlands have been diked, drained, filled, dredged, ditched or otherwise altered;(8)
There is continuing development pressure on wetlands in Oregon;(9)
There are often conflicts between wetland protection and other resource values and uses;(10)
Uncoordinated regulation of wetlands by local, state and federal agencies can cause confusion, frustration and unreasonable delay and uncertainty for the general public; and(11)
Wetland management is a matter of this state’s concern since benefits and impacts related to wetland resources can be international, national, regional and statewide in scope. [1989 c.837 §2]
Source:
Section 196.668 — Legislative findings, https://www.oregonlegislature.gov/bills_laws/ors/ors196.html
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