Relating to a program to increase access to public lands.
Impact
By facilitating corner crossings, HB2752 seeks to enhance recreational opportunities and improve public access to outdoor resources across the state. This initiative could potentially lead to increased participation in outdoor activities, which may benefit local economies through tourism and recreation-related revenues. The program will also publicly map areas where landowners have agreed to allow such access, thus informing the public of available crossing points and fostering goodwill between landowners and the community.
Summary
House Bill 2752 establishes the Access Oregon program within the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, aimed at increasing public access to corner-locked public lands. 'Corner-locked land' refers to public land that can only be accessed by crossing through adjacent private land at the corners where they meet. The program encourages voluntary participation among private landowners to allow members of the public to cross over their property to access these public lands for various outdoor activities such as hunting and fishing.
Sentiment
The sentiment surrounding HB2752 appears to be largely positive, as it aims to balance the interests of landowners with the recreational needs of the public. Proponents emphasize the importance of increasing access to public lands and the benefits that come with outdoor activities for local citizens. However, there may be apprehensions from some landowners regarding privacy and property rights, which could lead to discussions on how best to maintain those interests while promoting public access.
Contention
Notable points of contention may arise around the voluntary nature of landowner participation in the program, as not all landowners may feel comfortable or willing to allow public access to their property, even if just for crossing purposes. There may also be concerns about liability and how the program addresses potential issues that could occur from public access to private land. Furthermore, questions about enforcement of the program’s guidelines and how to handle disputes could be significant as the program is established.
An act to add Section 1357 to the Fish and Game Code, and to amend Sections 4124, 4124.5, 4208, 4208.1, and 4799.05 of, and to add Sections 4208.2 and 4799.05.1 to, the Public Resources Code, relating to wildfire.
An act to amend Sections 3190.9, 4770, and 71205.3 of the Public Resources Code, and to amend Section 4 of Chapter 578 of the Statutes of 2025, relating to public resources.