September 12, 2023 3:00 a.m.

The former site of Shutter Creek Correctional Institution was recently secured as the site for the headquarters for the Elliot State Research Forest.

An Oregon Department of State Lands release said the 49-acre site near North Bend is anticipated to serve as the operations hub for the forest, which will be overseen by the Elliot State Research Forest Authority and managed in partnership with Oregon State University. The proposed headquarters site will include laboratory, classroom, dormitory and office spaces and may also house potential partnerships with local and Tribal entities.

Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley secured $4 million for site renovations and rehabilitation in Congress’s fiscal year 2023 omnibus appropriations package,

DSL Director Vicky Walker said local residents will notice ongoing and increasing activities. Walker said DSL staff is onsite, managing and maintaining the property for redevelopment as well as for those with legal access. Ongoing use of a communications tower on-site has been secured. Existing agreements with the City of Lakeside and other utility providers have been assigned to the DSL, ensuring continuity of services to the site.

The Elliot State Research Forest will be officially created on January 1, 2024, as directed by the Oregon State Legislature through legislation in 2022. A new state agency, the Elliot State Research Forest Authority, and a board that includes local residents will oversee the research forest in collaboration with Oregon State University.