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About the Department of State Lands

Sign with green wetlands beyond itWe’re the Department of State Lands, a small agency that makes big contributions to Oregon. Our oversight benefits more natural and working lands than any other state agency. We work to protect these lands for generations to come. 

What We Do 

Three things have remained the same since our founding at statehood: The State Land Board guides our work, we send revenue to Oregon’s K-12 public schools, and we help public waterways thrive. 

But much has changed since 1859, too. 
  • In the 80s and 90s, we stepped up to become the state agency that protects wetlands and other waters. 
  • In 1983, we became NOAA’s state partner in managing South Slough Reserve, a hub of coastal science outside of Coos Bay. 
  • In 2004, the State Land Board began annually recognizing projects and partners for exceptional contributions to Oregon with Land Board Awards.
  • In 2025, we formally invited Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians, Coquille Indian Tribe, and Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians to be co-stewards of South Slough Reserve.
  • In 2024, DSL established the Elliott State Research Forest, the largest research forest in North America.

Priorities for the Department's two divisions have expanded to include sustainability of these lands and waters for generations. The Land Management Division manages for resilience to wildfire, drought, invasive species, and other climate-related threats. The Aquatic Resource Management Division works to support the health and safety of Oregon waterways and ensure that Oregon has zero net loss of wetlands.

There’s much to explore at the Oregon Department of State Lands. Learn about the most innovative restoration projects in Oregon. Dig into a new housing project we’re collaborating on to help get teachers affordable housing in Bend. Or attend an upcoming community workshop at South Slough Reserve.  

CONTACT

    Contact us form

    Staff directory

    Information for news media

Resources

  2025-27 Governor's Budget