County payments play an important role in many rural communities–influencing public lands management, economic development, and funding for local schools, roads, and public safety.
The two largest programs (Secure Rural Schools and PILT) are expiring. Reforming these programs represents an opportunity to recognize the broader values of public forests, which extends beyond raw materials to include recreation, as well as scenic vistas and clean water that attract capital and create employment, especially in rural areas.
[Note: Headwaters Economics also has detailed analysis of recent policy proposals by the Senate, House, and President.]
White Paper and Analysis
This White Paper analyzes the pros and cons of a number reform ideas with three goals in mind: provide reliable payments to schools and governments, support economic growth, and improve forest health.
Interactive Maps: How Reform Could Impact Your County
These interactive maps show every county’s current payments, estimated payments if SRS is not reauthorized, and what different reform scenarios could mean for eacg county. Use the drop-down menus to explore payment options.
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Timber Resources Data Interactive Maps
- Gross Receipts from Commercial Activities at National Forest, State, and USFS Region Levels, FY 2005-2010
- Timber Sales and Timber Cuts, 1980-2010
Summary of All County Payments Research
This summary contains a brief description and links to all Headwaters Economics research on county payments.
Essays on County Payments and Oregon
This essay overviews county payment reform and versions ran in the Denver Post, Missoulian, New West, and other western media outlets.
For how county payment reforms could impact Oregon, click here to view an essay that ran in the Medford Mail Tribune, the Salem Statesman Journal, and The Oregonian.
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