Renewable Energy Siting in Oregon

Collaborative effort produces new guidance on renewable energy development in Oregon.

Oregon Natural Desert Association is pleased to join partners in offering new guidance on the resources and values that should be considered in siting solar and wind energy facilities in the state. Achieving Oregon’s clean energy goals may require expansive new development, including in Oregon’s iconic high desert. “Siting Renewable Energy in Oregon: Voluntary Guidelines Developed with Outreach and Engagement” recommends ways that developers and permitting jurisdictions can involve stakeholders in project decision-making, avoid and minimize impacts to conservation, cultural, historical and recreational values, and ensure development benefits local communities. 

Read the collaborative coalition’s press release about the guidance:

 

Download Press Release

 

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John Cunningham, ONDA member and volunteer

John Cunningham, ONDA member and volunteer

Restoration is hard slow work. It takes hold, or it doesn’t, in fits and starts. The immensity of the need can be discouraging, but we must carry on. I am so thankful ONDA carries on.

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Connecting Trails

Connecting Trails

The Oregon Desert Trail ties into two National Recreation Trails: the Fremont National Recreation Trail and Desert Trail.

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What defines Oregon’s high desert?

What defines Oregon’s high desert?

Bounded by the Cascade Mountains to the west and the Blue Mountains to the north, Oregon’s high desert covers approximately 24,000 square miles. Annual rainfall in the high desert varies from 5 to 14 inches. The average elevation is 4,000 feet; at 9,733 feet, the summit of Steens Mountain is the highest point in Oregon’s high desert. The terrain of the high desert was mostly formed by a series of lava flows that occurred between 30 and 10 million years ago.

Sources: The Oregon Encyclopedia; Wikipedia