Salem, OR – Northwest Digital Heritage, a collaboration between the Oregon Heritage Commission, State Library of Oregon, and Washington State Library, is celebrating a year since it’s launch in May of 2021. 

Northwest Digital Heritage is a collaborative, regional effort to help support and increase access to digital collections from libraries and cultural heritage institutions throughout Oregon and Washington. Since its official launch in late May 2021 – and despite a myriad of challenges during the pandemic – the project has met some significant milestones during its initial year, including: 

• Over 190,000 digital item records from Oregon and Washington-based collections now available via the Digital Public Library of America (DPLA)’s Northwest Digital Heritage (NWDH) hub 
• Collections from 115 different libraries, museums, historical societies, and other cultural heritage organizations represented 
• An advisory group from contributing institutions formed to help identify potential access points for collections  
• Ongoing outreach to other organizations to pull future collections into Northwest Digital Heritage 

Over the next two years, the project plans to bring even more organizations and collections across the Northwest region into the fold, and both the Oregon Heritage Commission and the State Library of Oregon are very excited to bring new funding opportunities, a centralized digital repository, and in-person digitization support to Oregon libraries and organizations. 

The project partners are especially looking forward to finding tools and pathways for small heritage organizations to participate and increase access to the unique collections across the region. The Oregon Heritage Commission’s role in this partnership is to serve as a liaison with small heritage organizations, including museum, libraries, genealogical societies, etc. in Oregon and provide grants, technical assistance, and solutions for getting their cultural heritage materials digitized and accessible online. This is a key project of the Oregon Heritage Commission as it addresses all four goals of the 2020-2025 Oregon Heritage Plan.

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The mission of the Oregon Heritage Commission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity. For more information visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact coordinator Katie Henry at (503) 877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 

To learn more about Northwest Digital Heritage, please visit northwestdigitalheritage.org.

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A 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years centennial event

Brookings, Oregon—Crissey Field State Recreation Area rangers need 20 volunteers 
10 a.m. -1 p.m., June 11, 2022, to help restore wetlands at the Winchuck River mouth that will allow endangered or threatened species to thrive. The work will include measures to prevent invasive plant spread to other sensitive park areas. 

Participants must register in advance.  Registration ends June 5. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old and will work with hand tools and move on gravel and uneven surfaces. Tools and other equipment will be provided. Bring drinking water and gloves and wear clothes suitable for the weather conditions. 

The 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years series commemorates the Oregon State Parks centennial. Visit the event calendar to see the other opportunities scheduled in 2022. Join the events and participate in the legacy of service that has sustained the state parks system for the past century. 

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SALEM, Oregon – The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet June 6 via zoom. The agenda includes reviewing museum grant recommendations, information from Department of Land Conservation and Development on Goal 5 Cultural Areas Rulemaking, a presentation of preliminary results of an Economic Impact Study of heritage activities in Oregon, and review of a Heritage Tradition application. To register for the virtual meeting visit here. 

There is an appointed position on the Oregon Heritage Commission that will be expiring June 30. Requests for appointment are now being accepted.

The Heritage Commission’s nine members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary celebrations.

All Oregon residents are encouraged to apply for appointment but we are particularly seeking applications from those living in the Southern Oregon region. The Heritage Commission is especially seeking members with knowledge and experience related to community institutions, heritage tourism, or education/higher education, and who have experience working with diverse cultural groups. 

The group meets four-six times per year in changing locations around the state and will offer virtual options to attend meetings. Commissioners are also asked to occasionally participate in meetings or events in their regions and work on other projects outside of meeting time. Appointed Commissioners are reimbursed for their travel and related expenses while conducting official commission business.

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 

To request appointment, go to Gov. Kate Brown’s Boards and Commissions webpage at https://www.oregon.gov/gov/Pages/board-list.aspx.  

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Free parking, free RV and tent site camping, and special events highlighting the Oregon State Parks centennial are planned for State Parks Day on Saturday, June 4.

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will waive day-use parking fees at the 26 locations that charge them and waive camping fees for all tent, RV and horse campsites. 

State Parks Day has been a tradition since 1998 as a way to thank Oregonians for their support of the state park system over many decades.

“State parks are here because Oregonians know our state parks are special. You’ve invested in them, helped care for them and kept them open to all. Thank you.” said OPRD Director Lisa Sumption. “This year’s State Parks Day is even more meaningful in light of our centennial. We hope you will come out and wish Happy 100^th Birthday to Oregon State Parks.” 

State Parks Day Events

Several special events and service projects are planned June 4 to celebrate State Parks Day and the Oregon State Parks centennial. 

Monmouth: A free community birthday party is scheduled 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Oregon’s first state park, Sarah Helmick State Recreation Site. The event will feature a dedication, interactive demonstrations and exhibits, a classic car show, giveaways and birthday cake while supplies last. 

Port Orford: Cape Blanco State Park and the Cape Blanco Heritage Society will host a celebration of the state parks centennial and the 150^th anniversary of the Cape Blanco Lighthouse. The event, scheduled at the lighthouse grounds, will feature live music, raffles, a lighthouse diorama presentation, food by the Rotary Club of Port Orford and a Coast Guard flyover at 2 p.m. 

St. Paul: Champoeg State Heritage Area will host a living history event from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Visitors will experience an authentic fur trappers’ encampment that hearkens back to the early 1800’s when fur trappers and their families camped along the Willamette River at this location.

Medford: At Valley of the Rogue State Park, visitors are invited to watch two professional wood carvers create new sculptures they will donate to the park. They will be working 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. June 4 and 5 at the Valley of the Rogue rest area.   

Two volunteer service projects are also scheduled June 4 at Wallowa Lake State Park in Joseph and at Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park in Florence. 

Additional special events and service projects celebrating the centennial will be posted throughout the year on the Oregon State Parks event calendar. 

About Oregon Parks and Recreation Department

The mission of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations. The department manages 254 Oregon State Parks comprising more than 100,000 acres. 

A hundred years ago, state parks were barely an idea in Oregon. A 5-acre donation in 1922 became Oregon’s first official state park. Join us in 2022 to celebrate the places Oregonians hold dear: the viewpoints, the waterfalls, the trails and the historic landmarks. Share photos and memories on social media with the hashtags #oregonstateparks and #oregonstateparks100. Learn more at stateparks.oregon.gov. 

SALEM, Oregon –

Two separate committees will meet to score and rank applications for the Preserving Oregon and Diamonds in the Rough Grant programs. The recommendations from the committees will be forwarded to the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation for final review and approval June 24, 2022. 

Both meetings will be online. 

The Diamonds in the Rough Grant Review Committee will meet June 2, 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details. 

The Preserving Oregon Grant Review Committee will meet June 7, 8:30 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Please see the agenda for access details. 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail:   Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov. 

The Oregon Recreation Trails Advisory Council (ORTAC) is calling for nominations for the annual Doug Newman Memorial Award. The award honors an individual whose hard work, integrity and social responsibility have made significant statewide contributions to non-motorized trails within Oregon. 

All nominations are due by June 30, 2022, and can be submitted at https://form.jotform.com/221327938088161.

The 2022 awardee will be recognized at the Oregon Outdoor Recreation Summit in October: https://www.oregontrailscoalition.org/summit.

The award pays tribute to Doug Newman, an Oregonian whose efforts have inspired, benefited and contributed to the trails and trail users of Oregon. Doug was an avid outdoorsman, author, outdoor writer for the Eugene Register-Guard and ORTAC member. The memorial award was established shortly after his passing in 1992.

A list of past awardees is available at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/BWT/Documents/ORTAC-Doug-Newman-Award-Recipients.pdf.

ORTAC was established by the Legislature in 1971 to advise Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and its partners in the development, management and promotion of high quality non-motorized trail systems throughout Oregon. 

For more information, contact Program Coordinator Jodi Bellefeuille at 503-856-6316 or jodi.bellefeuille@oprd.oregon.gov.

A 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years centennial event

Joseph, Oregon—Wallowa Lake State Park rangers need 50 volunteers June 4 to celebrate both State Parks Day and National Trails Day through volunteer service! Join park staff to improve the Nature Trail. Work includes blocking social trails, cutting back overgrown limbs on the official trail, and lining the official trail where it is hard to follow.

Participants must register in advance, and registration ends June 1. Volunteers will work with hand tools and move on gravel and uneven surfaces. Tools and other equipment will be provided. Bring drinking water and gloves and wear clothes suitable for the weather conditions. 

The 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years series commemorates the Oregon State Parks centennial. Visit the event calendar to see the other opportunities scheduled in 2022. Join the events and participate in the legacy of service that has sustained the state parks system for the past century. 

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A 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years centennial event

Florence, Oregon—Jessie M. Honeyman Memorial State Park rangers need 15 volunteers 
June 4, 10 a.m.-noon. Celebrate both State Parks Day and National Trails Day by lending a hand to trim back areas along the Woahink Lake Trail, a trail built originally by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Participants must register in advance, and registration ends May 25. Volunteers will work with hand tools and move on gravel and uneven surfaces. Tools and other equipment will be provided. Bring drinking water, gloves and wear clothes suitable for the weather conditions. 

The 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years series commemorates the Oregon State Parks centennial. Visit the event calendar to see the other opportunities scheduled in 2022. Join the events and participate in the legacy of service that has sustained the state parks system for the past century. 

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A 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years centennial event

Coos Bay, Oregon—Shore Acres State Park rangers need 10 volunteers June 3, 9 a.m. – 2 p.m., to help the park get ready for State Parks Day June 4 and Rose Sunday June 19. Join them to clean up the botanical gardens. You can help with weeding, trimming, mowing, mulching, painting, staining, picking up litter, and pulling invasive English ivy. 

Participants must register in advance, and registration ends May 26. Volunteers must be at least 14 years old and will work with hand tools and move on gravel and uneven surfaces. Tools and other equipment will be provided. Bring drinking water and gloves and wear clothes suitable for the weather conditions. 

The 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years series commemorates the Oregon State Parks centennial. Visit the event calendar to see the other opportunities scheduled in 2022. Join the events and participate in the legacy of service that has sustained the state parks system for the past century. 

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The Salmonberry Trail Intergovernmental Agency (STIA) will meet virtually to discuss the proposed Salmonberry Trail corridor 10 a.m. – noon May 20, 2022. The public can view the proceedings via https://bit.ly/stiavideo

On the agenda:

• Project updates
• 2022-2023 STIA strategic plan 
• Construction prioritization map
• STF report, priorities and engagement 

The proposed Salmonberry Trail is an 87-mile corridor that follows the Port of Tillamook Bay Railway and terminates in Banks. The proposed route connects eight cities and two counties, passing by the Oregon coastline, fisheries, farmland and the Oregon Coast Range.  More information is at salmonberrytrail.org.

STIA was established to promote and facilitate coordinated direction and guidance in the planning, development and maintenance of the multi-use trail. 

To submit public comment for board members to review during the meeting, send comments to jon-paul@salmonberrytrail.org at least three days prior to the meeting.

SALEM, Oregon – Electric vehicle (EV) charging is coming to the Oregon State Park system. Starting this summer and over the next year, Level 2 EV chargers will be installed in selected state parks as part of a pilot project created by Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) and the nonprofit Adopt a Charger (AAC). The agreement between OPRD and AAC allows fundraising and donations to cover the installation of the chargers and includes an option for the electricity costs to be sponsored by a donor for up to three years.

Legislation passed in 2021, House Bill 2290, directs OPRD to allow planning and installation of public EV charging stations in parking spaces at state parks. The OPRD and AAC agreement reflects the intent and direction outlined in the legislation.

Rivian, an electric vehicle manufacturer and automotive technology company, is working with AAC to donate the installation design, construction costs and EV chargers as part of its Rivian Waypoints charging network. Rivian Waypoints can provide up to 25 miles of range every hour of charging and are equipped with a J1772 plug, making them compatible with every electric vehicle on the market. In addition, Entec Polymers has offered to sponsor the cost of electricity through its partnership with AAC for a limited time.

“Beyond helping reduce global and local pollution, including greenhouse gasses, state parks need to be accessible to everyone,” said Lisa Sumption, OPRD Director. “Looking ahead, electric vehicles will become more and more common, and rather than wait for someone else to fill all the charging gaps, we want to do our part.”

“I can think of no better way to commemorate 100 years of state park service in 2022 than to set up us up to serve people even better for the next hundred, and am grateful to the donors for making it happen,” Sumption added.

“The AAC goal is to introduce zero emission tourism in Oregon, and inspire visitors of all ages to consider the impact of their decisions on the environment,” said Kitty Adams Hoksbergen, executive director of AAC. “I am grateful to everyone at OPRD for proactively planning and offering EV charging at state parks, and to Rivian for their generosity in making it happen. Thanks to Entec for sponsoring the electrical usage so EV motorists can charge their vehicles fee-free during the pilot.”

“OPRD’s commitment to service is a principle we share and look forward to contributing to in this pilot,” said Trent Warnke, Senior Director of Energy and Charging Solutions at Rivian. “For Rivian, electrifying adventure is something we’re inspired to do thoughtfully, especially when working off the beaten path.”

"Giving back to the community is embedded in Entec Polymers’ DNA, and sustainability has always been a large part of what we do and who we are," said Steve Tomaszewski, Senior Vice President & General Manager. "Partnering with Adopt a Charger and Rivian to support EV charging stations at Oregon State Parks allows us to advance the electrification of transportation and to make a difference in the communities that we serve."

The tentative list of the pilot project sites: L.L. Stub Stewart State Park; Banks-Vernonia State Trail; Rooster Rock State Park; Silver Falls State Park, The Cove Palisades State Park; Prineville Reservoir State Park; Cape Lookout State Park; and William M. Tugman State Park. This list may change as the project progresses.

OPRD manages 255 parks statewide (https://stateparks.oregon.gov/) to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations.

AAC (https://adoptacharger.org/) is a nationwide 501(c)3 non-profit organization whose mission is to raise awareness of electric vehicles by providing charging stations at scenic, cultural and civic destinations.

Rivian (http://rivian.com) exists to create products and services that help our planet transition to carbon neutral energy and transportation as part of its mission — Keep The World Adventurous Forever.

Entec Polymers (https://www.entecpolymers.com/) is the largest distribution channel of the Ravago group. They are engaged in the distribution of recycled and recyclable polymers for many diverse markets and act as the driving force behind the material solutions for many major automotive OEMs and Tier 1 Manufacturers across the Americas and beyond. Its mission is to lead and inspire collaboration for a sustainable future by investing resources in emerging markets, including e-mobility.
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The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet via Zoom at 9:00 a.m. on May 23. Its agenda includes approval of Oregon Museum Grants and approval of minutes. You can find the agenda and register to attend the meeting here. 

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The mission of the Oregon Heritage Commission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity. For more information, contact coordinator Katie Henry at katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-877-8834. 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting.

For more information about the commissions, visit www.oregonheritage.org.

A 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years centennial event

Cave Junction, OR—Illinois River Forks State Park rangers need 25 volunteers to lend a hand
Saturday, May 21, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Volunteers will pick up litter, cut back invasive scotch broom shrubs, and remove graffiti. All registered volunteers will receive an Oregon State Parks centennial item. 

Participants must register in advance by May 15. Volunteers 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Be prepared to work with hand tools and move on gravel and uneven surfaces. Tools and other equipment will be provided. Bring drinking water and wear clothes suitable for the weather. 

The 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years series commemorates the Oregon State Parks centennial. Visit the event calendar to see the other opportunities scheduled in 2022. Join the events and participate in the legacy of service that has sustained the state parks system for the past century. 

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SALEM, Oregon – The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet via online meeting on May 23^rd at 1:00 p.m. The agenda includes discussion of invasion species and grant approval. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Meeting information is on the agenda or you can follow this link to register for contact. 

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about commission activities, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For call-in details and the agenda or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.

SALEM, Ore. – Two National Register nominations recommended by Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) at their December 1, 2021 meeting have been accepted by the National Park Service and listed in the National Register of Historic Places.

The Oregon New Deal Resources from the Public Works Administration (PWA) or Works Progress Administration (WPA) is a Multiple Property Document (MPD) that has been accepted for its impact on social and cultural development as well as art, architecture and landscape architecture through federal relief during the significant period of 1933 – 1943.  The New Deal, President Franklin Roosevelt’s response to the Great Depression, spurred legislation to provide direct relief to the unemployed and stabilize the economy through public works projects and infrastructure programs. PWA and WPA projects in Oregon included parks, lodges and public docks; roads, scenic drives and trails; city swimming pools, park bathhouses, and golf course features; post offices, courthouses, schools and libraries; water treatment plants, pumping stations and transmission lines; airports, armories and auditoriums; and the Bonneville Dam. All of these New Deal resources significantly shaped Oregon economic opportunities, improved transportation routes and enriched communities.

The State Library of Oregon is accepted into the National Register of Historic Places and is the first entry accepted under the Oregon New Deal Resources from the PWA or WPA, 1933-1943, MPD. Oregon’s State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) recommended the nomination at their December 1, 2021 meeting. The National Park Service accepted this nomination in May 2022.

The Oregon State Library is located within the City of Salem, Marion County, Oregon.  It has applicable historic significance in the categories of architecture, education, politics and government in the period from 1939, the year construction was completed, to 1943, the year that funding for the New Deal work relief programs ended.  The library was designed by Architects Whitehouse & Church in the Modernist style with some art deco features. Artist Gabriel Lavare provided much of the carvings and interior and exterior artwork. The Library is associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history and continues to reflect its purposeful design and historical significance.

The National Register is maintained by the National Park Service under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966. More information about the National Register and recent Oregon listings are online at oregonheritage.org (listed under “Designate”).

Properties listed in the National Register are:

• Recognized as significant to the nation, state, or community;
• Considered in the planning of federal or federally-assisted projects;
• Eligible for federal and state tax benefits;
• Qualify for historic preservation grants when funds are available;
• Eligible for leniency in meeting certain building code requirements;
• Subject to local laws pertaining to the conservation and protection of historic resources.

National Register listing does not place any restrictions on a property at the state or federal level, unless property owners choose to participate in tax benefit or grant programs.

SALEM, Oregon –

On May 18, 2022, the Oregon Museum Grant committee will meet to score and rank the applications for the Oregon Museum Grant program. The recommendations from the committee will be forwarded to the Oregon Heritage Commission for final review and approval on May 23, 2022. The meeting will be held by teleconference at 8:30 a.m. Interested parties may access the meeting by Zoom. The meeting agenda at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Documents/2022MuseumGrantCmteAgenda.pdf includes the access information. 

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The mission of the Oregon Heritage Commission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov. 

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is convening a workgroup to draft criteria for managing drone take-off and landing in state parks and along the ocean shore. The process to adopt formal administrative rules, started in January 2022, was paused by OPRD Director Lisa Sumption to allow the group to conduct research and suggest ways to develop maps.

OPRD invited members to the workgroup who represent a wide range of interests and expertise, including conservation organizations, drone enthusiasts and trail users. The workgroup, which will report its results to Director Sumption, is first tasked with drafting criteria for where drone take-off and landing could be allowed and restricted. Then park managers will apply the criteria to create maps showing proposed drone take-off and landing locations in state parks and along the ocean shore. 

Director Sumption paused the process of creating new rules to guide drone use after a conversation with the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission and members of the public during an April 13, 2022, commission meeting. The decision follows a two-month public rulemaking process that generated much public feedback both in support and critical of the proposed rules. 

“Drones are growing in popularity as a way to get outside and enjoy parks,” said Guy Rodrigue, OPRD Central Resources Manager, who will convene the workgroup. “This workgroup gives us a chance to hear from a diverse group of stakeholders on the best way to balance providing places for drone pilots to capture photos while also protecting wildlife and park lands.” 

Once the drone criteria and maps are drafted and delivered to the Director, OPRD expects to restart the process of amending the Oregon Administrative Rules by reconvening a Rule Advisory Committee (RAC). The committee will be able to refer to the criteria and maps as part of the process of drafting rules for drone pilots, hobbyists and the general public. Amended rules must be approved by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission. 

Currently, there are no state park rules that specifically prohibit people from flying a drone in an Oregon state park, though Federal Aviation Authority rules apply. However, some park managers have created temporary limits on the places and times a person can use a drone to protect sensitive plants and animals as well as public and private property. 

OPRD cannot adopt rules specifically related to drones without following the formal public process for amending the Oregon Administrative Rules. Updates on the project and more information about flying drones in state parks are on the Oregon State Parks website at https://stateparks.oregon.gov/index.cfm?do=v.page&id=97.

The State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO), part of Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD), is requesting public comment on proposed Oregon Administrative Rule changes that govern how the state issues archaeological permits. The deadline for comments is 5 p.m. July 1, 2022.

State law requires a permit for archaeological excavation or collection of archaeological objects on public land. Permits are also required for archaeological excavation within an archaeological site on private land.

A virtual public meeting is scheduled to review the proposed rule and take comments at 6 p.m. May 25. Registration is required for anyone wishing to testify at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_Cmu5jrPsSAWZdaEizFG-Ow. The hearing will be streamed live at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkqL6iVPBrfCTO27cNmCTwg.

Comments may also be submitted via:

• Website: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx
• Mail: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, attn: Jo Niehaus, 725 Summer St. NE, Suite C, Salem, OR 97301
• Email: OPRD.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov

A full copy of the proposed amendments is available on the Proposed OPRD Rules web page at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx.

After reviewing public comments, agency staff will present final amended rules for consideration by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Commission later this year.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting public comments on proposed changes to the comment process during meetings of the State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP), which reviews nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. The deadline for comments is 5 p.m. May 31.

OPRD is proposing updates to the Oregon Administrative Rules that govern how individuals submit comments during public meetings of the SACHP. Under the proposed rule, comments would be submitted to OPRD staff who would share them with committee members during the meeting. Any comments not material to the nomination would not be shared.

The proposed rule is similar to a temporary rule put into place in November 2021 after a virtual meeting of the committee was interrupted when an attendee began typing racial and homophobic slurs directed at members of the committee. Without action, the rule language would revert to its prior form. In order for the temporary rule language to become permanent, the agency must open the proposed amendment for public comment and follow the rule adoption process.

“Under the proposed rule, the committee will continue to hear all comments relevant to the listing criteria,” said Ian Johnson, Associate Deputy State Historic Preservation Officer. “The purpose is not to censor comments, but to prevent hate speech from interrupting a meeting.” 

OPRD will accept public comments on the proposed changes at a virtual public hearing set to stream on Zoom at 6 p.m. May 23. Register to attend at https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_jvfmGbyARu-YJDQol8nFWw.

Comments may also be submitted via the following channels:

• Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx
• In writing: Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, attn. Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301
• Email: OPRD.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov

After reviewing public comments, OPRD staff plan to present a final recommended rule for consideration to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission.

The full text of the proposed change is available online at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx

The SACHP is a 9-member governor-appointed group of individuals with interest or expertise in history, archaeology, architecture, and other disciplines. Members review all proposed National Register nominations in Oregon.  Information is at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Pages/Commissions.aspx. 

The National Register of Historic Places is the United States' official list of buildings, districts, structures, sites, and objects important to local, state, or national history. The program is run by the National Park Service and administered locally by the Oregon State Historic Preservation Office. More information is at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Pages/National-Register.aspx.

A 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years centennial event

Nehalem, OR—Nehalem Bay State Park rangers and Oregon Equestrian Trails members need 40 volunteers May 21, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., to expand and revitalize the horse campground. Volunteers will cut and remove invasive scotch broom and blackberry bushes. The undergrowth surrounding the campsites is thick and your help will help tidy the sites.

Participants must register in advance by May 15, 2022. Volunteers of all ages are welcome, although volunteers 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Be prepared to work with hand tools and move on gravel and uneven surfaces. Tools and other equipment will be provided, but volunteers will need to bring their own gloves. Bring drinking water and wear clothing suitable for the weather conditions. 

The 100 Volunteer Projects for 100 Years series commemorates the Oregon State Parks centennial. Visit the event calendar to see the other opportunities scheduled in 2022. Join the events and participate in the legacy of service that has sustained the state parks system for the past century. 

SALEM, Oregon –

On May 12, 2022 the Oregon Historic Cemeteries Grant committee will meet to score and rank the applications for the Oregon Historic Cemeteries Grant program. The recommendations from the committee will be forwarded to the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries for final review and approval on May 23, 2022. The meeting will be held by teleconference at 8:30 a.m. Interested parties may access the meeting by Zoom. The meeting agenda includes the registration information. 

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. 

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling 503-986-0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For information about the grants contact Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail: Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov.