The City is proposing to replace its Sensitive Lands regulations this year, consistent with City Council goals. As part of this work, a new Comprehensive Plan chapter entitled Healthy Ecosystems will replace current sections of the Plan relating to natural resources. The new natural resources program is intended to be less burdensome on private property owners while protecting streams and wetlands, and providing incentives for habitat protection and enhancement.

On March 10, the City Council discussed two tax incentive/reduction programs offered by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife for property owners who voluntarily protect wildlife habitat or have stream and wetland protections on their property. The Council directed staff to analyze the potential fiscal impact of the programs while pursuing them in conjunction with the new natural resources program. Clackamas County must first adopt an enabling ordinance before cities within the county may participate in the programs.

 A public discussion draft of the proposed natural resources program is scheduled for release at the end of March. Public hearings with the Planning Commission and City Council, respectively, are expected to follow in May and June. Project updates and related documents are posted here: http://www.ci.oswego.or.us/planning/pp-12-0002-proposed-revisions-sensitive-lands-program