New Natural Resource Economy

An innovative way of thinking about natural resources, termed the New Natural Resources Economy (NNRE), opens up new possibilities for the rural west. NNRE recognizes that rural communities are significant repositories of natural resources that contribute to society’s well being and seeks to broaden the definition of resources. Not only do rural communities supply timber, food, and other traditional goods, they also supply a range of services such as clean water, clean air, and biodiversity. Additionally, new products such as wind and biomass generated electricity are coming on line and new bioproducts are being developed and marketed.

Institute for Natural Resources is engaging in this research area in collaboration with Mike Hibbard, Director of the Institute for Policy Research and Innovation at the University of Oregon. NNRE research includes exploring methods for utilization and enhancement of communities’ natural resource base which comprises, among other things, watershed restoration, values chain production models for a variety of agricultural products, bioproducts and other natural resource based goods and services.

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