247-25-000297-TA Farm and Forest Housekeeping Text Amendments

Background and Project Purpose

In 2024, the Land Conservation and Development Commission (LCDC) initiated the Farm and Forest Modernization Project, which included changes to Oregon Administrative Rules (OARs) through a process called rulemaking. This process included appointment of a rules advisory committee (RAC) and was intended to improve the clarity and consistency of implementing Oregon’s farm and forest program across the state. DLCD directed the RAC to consider:

  • Codifying identified case law standards;
  • Other EFU rule amendments;
  • Conforming rule changes; and
  • Providing additional clarity to counties and potential applicants with the intent of reducing unnecessary appeals.

LCDC ultimately adopted changes to the OARs on December 6, 2024. They became effective on January 1, 2025.

The proposed housekeeping amendment package will implement the Farm and Forest Modernization Project rulemaking changes into Deschutes County Code. As part of this package, staff is also proposing to integrate previous rulemaking or legislative changes that have not yet been captured locally. Specific detail on the amendments can be found in the application materials.

Proposal Status & Public Hearing Information

The proposed text amendments require two public hearings. The Planning Commission held the first public hearing on June 24, 2025. No testimony was received. The Commission voted to close the hearing and conduct deliberations, voting 6-0 to approve the amendments. A second hearing will be scheduled before the Board of County Commissioners in late summer. 

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Staff Contact

Nicole Mardell, AICP, Senior Planner
Nicole.Mardell@deschutes.org
(541) 317-3157

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