February 25, 2026 3:30 a.m.
On Tuesday, Second-District Congressman Cliff Bentz introduced the O&C Renewal Act of 2026.
A release from the congressman’s office said the legislation reaffirms timber production as the primary purpose of the Oregon & California lands, and restores responsible, sustained-yield forest management across more than two million acres of federal timberlands in western Oregon.
The bill amends the 1937 Oregon and California Lands Act to clarify that permanent timber production under the principle of sustained yield is the primary purpose of the O&C lands. Revenues generated from responsible timber harvests are intended to directly support county governments and fund schools, roads, public safety, and other essential services, while sustaining rural jobs, improving forest health and reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfire. Bentz believes the legislation will restore O&C lands to healthier, more resilient forest conditions while providing long-term economic stability for Oregon’s timber industry.
Bentz said, “For decades, O&C counties depended on responsible timber harvests to fund schools, roads and essential services”. Bentz said, “Following the listing of the spotted owl and years of federal delays, these lands have become overgrown and neglected. This bill restores the clear intent of the 1937 law – that O&C lands are to be managed for sustained timber production that benefits rural communities while reducing wildfire risk”.
In reaction to the legislation, American Forest Resource Council President Travis Joseph said, “Representative Bentz’s legislation is common sense. It reaffirms the law, restores balance, and provides a clear path forward to improve forest health while supporting family-wage jobs and essential public services”.
Douglas County Commissioner and Association of O&C Counties President Tim Freeman said, “We believe the legislation clarifies the historical intent of the 1937 O&C Act. We appreciate the time Congressman Bentz has dedicated to understanding these uniquely congressionally designated timberlands and look forward to this bill becoming law to help the Bureau of Land Management manage these lands reasonably and responsibility under the principles of sustained yield”.