Associated Oregon Loggers Attends Ceremonial Signing of SB 1552

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Salem, OR – Associated Oregon Loggers (AOL) was honored to attend the ceremonial signing of Senate Bill 1552 by Governor Tina Kotek on May 29th. This new law, enacted on April 4, 2024, includes a pioneering ‘Forestry Workforce Study’ aimed at advancing forest workforce development in Oregon.

The law allocates $300,000 for the study, to be completed by July 1, 2025.

AOL Forest Policy Manager, Amanda Sullivan-Astor, highlighted the importance of this study, stating, “Comprehensive workforce and economic data will enable informed decision-making and address industry challenges. This study will benefit our forest sector and connect our urban and rural communities.”

The Forestry Workforce Study addresses critical gaps in workforce data, supporting Oregon's economic goals and enhancing rural community stability. The collected data will inform strategic planning and improve Oregon's competitiveness for federal, state and private funding for the forestry workforce to be further developed, enhancing the state’s ability to deliver on key priorities such as housing, wildfire mitigation, and environmental justice.

We extend our gratitude to Governor Kotek, Senator Dembrow, Senator Weber, and the Higher Education Coordinating Commission for their support and collaboration.

For further information, please contact:

Amanda Sullivan-Astor, CF

Forest Policy Manager

Email: aastor@oregonloggers.org

Phone: 503-364-1330 

About Associated Oregon Loggers:

Associated Oregon Loggers is the statewide trade association representing logging companies, forest operators, and small businesses in Oregon's forest sector. AOL promotes sustainable forest management and supports the economic viability of its members.