Policy Cornerstones and Action Strategies for an Integrated Ecosystem Marketplace in Oregon

Release Date: July 2008         

Project duration: Late 2007 - July 2008

Lead organization: Prepared by the Institute of Natural Resources, for the Willamette Partnership and Defenders of Wildlife

Length: 47 pages

Geographic focus: Oregon

This report addresses the inefficiencies of existing ad hoc mitigation strategies and provides impetus for creating an integrated ecosystem service marketplace, as discussed during two working sessions among ecosystem services practitioners, government representatives, and other partners. The paper examines current state policies and practices that impact development of a robust ecosystem marketplace, and identifies strategies that government agencies can employ to further this approach. Additionally, it highlights examples of activities already underway that utilize market incentives. A key outcome of the working sessions was the identification of problems and solutions related to stimulating demand in the marketplace and increasing efficiency and lower transaction costs. The report suggests a shift in the goal of ecosystem markets, from one based on regulatory mandates to an outcomes-based approach, and recommends the marketplace be geared toward both regulatory and voluntary purposes. Additionally, the working groups developed a legislative concept, identifying the potential usefulness of legislative support and funding in moving forward with exploring ecosystem marketplace development, and providing potential language for this purpose. Next steps in the development of an integrated marketplace are outlined, and include education and public engagement activities, public and private sector pilot studies, development and evaluation of accounting tools, and ongoing information and research needs. Outcomes from this project resulted in draft wording for Senate Bill 513.

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Policy Cornerstones and Action Strategies for an Integrated Ecosystem Marketplace in Oregon

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