H.R. 7603: To amend the Act of August 28, 1937 (commonly referred to as the “O&C Act”) with respect to timber production.

This bill, known as the O&C Renewal Act of 2026, aims to amend an existing law from 1937 regarding certain public lands in Oregon that are managed for timber production. Here are the primary changes the bill proposes:

1. Affirmation of Timber Production as Primary Purpose

The bill clarifies that the main purpose of the designated lands is to produce timber. It changes the language in the original act to emphasize that timber production should be carried out in a sustainable manner that generates revenue to help fund county government services. The bill acknowledges secondary purposes for these lands, such as:

• Supporting the economic stability of local communities and industries
• Protecting watersheds
• Regulating water flow
• Providing recreational opportunities
• Reducing the risk of catastrophic wildfires

2. Fire Protection for O&C Lands

The bill introduces new requirements for fire protection on these lands. It stipulates that the Secretary of the Interior must:

• Meet or exceed fire protection standards that apply to nearby lands managed by the state of Oregon.
• Enter into agreements with the state and relevant protective associations to ensure these fire protection standards are met.
• Provide compensation for fire protection services as per any agreements established.

3. Definition of Timberlands

The bill includes a new definition for "timberlands." According to this definition, timberlands are defined as areas that can support a growth of timber, specifically noting that each 40-acre section must be capable of producing at least 300,000 board feet of timber.

4. Revision of Resource Management Plans

Within two years of the bill's enactment, the Secretary of the Interior is required to revise the existing resource management plans connected to these lands. This revision will include designating specific timberlands based on the new provisions set forth by the bill.

Conclusion

The O&C Renewal Act of 2026 is focused on promoting timber production on specific public lands in Oregon while ensuring fire protection measures are in place and accommodating other environmental and community needs.

Relevant Companies

• WY - Weyerhaeuser Company: This company, one of the largest private owners of timberlands in the U.S., could be impacted due to changes in timberland classifications and production regulations.
• LPX - Louisiana-Pacific Corporation: As a manufacturer of wood products, they may be affected by the availability of timber for production.