Natural Resources and Rural Development

The Beaver State was built by Americans who relied on the land for their livelihood. Natural resource industries like farming, forestry, and salmon fishing remain integral to Oregon’s economy today.  Our state has also long been a destination for Americans looking to experience the great outdoors.  Oregon’s protected public lands provide valuable habitats, supply clean water, and generate jobs through sustainable harvests, recreation, and tourism. Preserving our natural resources and making smart decisions about economic development will help spur rural growth and ensure that future generations can enjoy Oregon’s wild places and public lands while putting people to work.

Farms, Food, and Fiber: Merkley and Wyden Announce Big Investments for Oregon Agriculture and Rural Communities in 2024 Funding Package

Funding included in the FY24 minibus appropriations package champions family farms, rural housing, broadband, and more. Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced major investments in Oregon agriculture, rural housing, food assistance, and rural business priorities—along with nearly $12.7 million in funding for 14

Merkley, Wyden Strengthen Oregon’s Wildfire Resiliency, Water Infrastructure, and Climate Action in Passage of 2024 Funding Package

Merkley, Wyden Strengthen Oregon’s Wildfire Resiliency, Water Infrastructure, and Climate Action in Passage of 2024 Funding Package Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden today announced they secured major investments to strengthen forest health and wildfire resiliency, protect public lands and the environment, secure important programs

Merkley, Wyden: $72 Million Coming to the Klamath Basin to Boost Ecosystem Restoration and Support Collaboration that Drives Water Reliability Solutions 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced that $72 million in new federal funding is headed to the Klamath Basin for critical ecosystem restoration projects and agricultural infrastructure modernization. Additionally, the U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) announced a historic agreement with the Klamath Tribes, Yurok Tribe, Karuk Tribe, and Klamath Water

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