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Forest Classification
Overview
What lands are classified as “forestland" is important because that determines where within the district the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has fire protection responsibilities. That is relevant to landowners because:
- Lands classified as “forestland” within the boundary receive protection through ODF, and
- Lands classified as forestland are assessed for fire protection.
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Classification Review Process
The review is being conducted by a County Forestland Classification Committee, as authorized under Oregon Revised Statute (ORS) 526, and the West Oregon District of the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF).
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Forest Land Classification in Oregon Today
Since its inception in the 1930s, Oregon’s forest land classification system has evolved in response to changes in land uses and markets, as well as social and political pressures and events.
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Forestland - ORS Chapter 477.001
ORS Chapter 477.001: “Forestland” means any woodland, brushland, timberland, grazing land, or clearing that, during any time of the year, contains enough forest growth, slashing, or vegetation to constitute, in the judgment of the forester, a fire hazard, regardless of how the land is zoned or taxed.
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Forestland Classification Background
Classification of lands as *“forestland” essentially determines where within the District the Oregon Department of Forestry (ODF) has fire protection responsibilities. Lands classified as “forestland” within the boundary receive protection from ODF and are assessed for fire protection.
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ODF’s Role in Structural Protection
The primary mission of the ODF Fire Protection Division is to protect forest resources, second only to protecting human lives.