Oregonians have long recognized the value of our diverse ocean resources. The Pacific Ocean offers both commercial and recreational opportunities, and it is closely connected to Oregon's identity. Statewide Planning Goal 19: Ocean Resources aims to conserve the long-term values, benefits, and natural resources of the nearby ocean. Goal 19 addresses matters related to open ocean resources in the Ocean Stewardship Area which includes the state’s territorial sea out to three nautical miles, the continental margin seaward to the toe of the continental slope, and adjacent ocean areas.
Goal 19 deals with matters such as dumping dredge spoils and discharge of waste products into the open sea and prioritizes the protection of renewable marine resources over the development of non-renewable resources.
Since 1977, this goal has guided Oregon's policy and management of ocean resources. Goal 19 is implemented through the Territorial Sea Plan, and it is the only goal that is not carried out at the local level. This is one of the most pertinent "applicable elements" of the Oregon Coastal Management Program (OCMP) referred to in the law.
The Administrative Rules that implement Goal 19 are provided within OAR 660-036 – Ocean Planning. Additional statutes and programs that relate to ocean resources are listed in Part 1 of the
Territorial Sea Plan.
Original Adoption: 12/18/76; Effective: 6/7/77
Amended: 10/11/84; Effective: 10/19/84
Amended: 12/1/00; Effective: 1/30/01
Read full text version of Goal 19.
Related:
Oregon Coastal Management Program
Coastal Goals
Oregon Ocean Information