Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting comments on a proposed rule change that would establish a permit to restore, maintain or preserve an abandoned cemetery. The proposed rules are a result of House Bill 2516, passed during the 2017 session. The deadline for public comment on the amendments is Jan. 15, 2018.

The proposed rules, developed in consultation with the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries, outline the process for entities to apply for permits and permit requirements. OPRD currently offers a grant program for protection, restoration and education of historic cemeteries. Information about the grant program is available at http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/HCD/FINASST/Pages/grants.aspx#Historic_Cemeteries_Grant_Program

The full text of the amendments to Oregon Administrative Rule 736-054-0100 to 736-054-0150 is available online at http://www.oregon.gov/oprd/RULES/pages/index.aspx. Comments can be made directly on this webpage or in writing to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, Attn.: Katie Gauthier, 725 Summer St NE, Suite C, Salem OR 97301; or through e-mail to OPRD.publiccomment@oregon.gov. They will be accepted until 5 p.m. Jan. 15, 2018.

Anyone wishing to comment in person may attend a public hearing at 6 p.m. Jan. 9 in Salem's North Mall Office Building, 725 Summer Street NE, Room 124A.

After reviewing public comments, agency staff plan to present a final recommended rule for consideration by the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission at its February 2018 business meeting.