OPRD release – SALEM, Ore— Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) is accepting additional public comments through Jan. 4 on proposed updates to rules about the collection of marine plants and macroalgae in marine reserves and marine protected areas (OAR 736-021-0090). The department’s proposed rule changes will allow for collection of marine plants and macroalgae in marine protected areas if allowed under management plans for the area: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx. Updates to Oregon’s Territorial Sea Plan earlier this year changed regulations and management practices in certain protected areas. OPRD’s proposed rules would also eliminate outdated requirements for enrolled members of federally recognized tribes in Oregon to seek a permit before collecting marine plants along the ocean shore. In October, the agency took public comment on proposed language for this rule. Based on comments received, the agency is updating proposed language to clarify that collection of material is only allowed for enrolled members of federally recognized tribes in Oregon or under management agreements between a tribe and the department. Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is accepting comments on the proposed rule changes until 5 p.m. Jan. 4, 2024. Public comments can be made online, in writing or via email: Online: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx, scroll down to “Open Rulemaking” and find “Marine plant and Macroalgae collection rule update” 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, agency staff plan to present a final proposed amended rule to the Oregon State Parks and Recreation Commission for consideration at its Feb. 2024 business meeting. The full text of the proposed amendment to Oregon Administrative Rule 736-021-0090 is available online at https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/PRP/Pages/PRP-rulemaking.aspx.
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