About the Oregon Small Woodlands Association
Oregon Small Woodlands Association
1775 32nd NE/Suite C, Salem, OR 97301
(503) 588-1813
OSWA is a not-for-profit membership organization for small woodland owners. The objectives of the organization, as laid out the in by-laws, include:
- Representing the owners of family forestlands to the general public and before legislative bodies and regulatory agencies;
- Educating and informing the owners of forested tracts and the public regarding forestry and family forestland management issues;
- Providing a medium for the exchange of ideas about family forestland by landowners, public agencies, consultatns and timber industry personnel.
OSWA members include many leading experts on forestry, conservation and wildlife. It is a diverse group of family forestland owners that have been working to promote and advocate for family forestland ownership since 1967.
Professional Representation
OSWA staff and members have a proud tradition of working together to find practical solutions to the divisive issues of the day. By engaging with other groups in a constructive manner, we strive to promote the important and essential roles that family owned woodlands play in society.
OSWA staff and volunteers work closely and actively with local and state agencies, legislators and the political process in Oregon to ensure that family owned forests continue to thrive and prosper. Our State Affairs Coordinator effectively lobbies on issues of importance to family forestland owners.
Membership
Membership is open to any person, firm or corporation that owns less than 5,000 acres of forestland in Oregon. Over half of the OSWA members own under 70 acres of woodland/forest land. Members not only receive direct benefits, their dues help support the on-going efforts of OSWA to provide an effective voice for small woodland owners throughout Oregon. Dues are $85.00 per year for woodland owners with 70 acres or less.
Local Chapters
OSWA has 20 active chapters statewide; they are the cornerstone of OSWA. The chapters organize local activities and produce information tailored to local needs. Chapter meetings, tours, workshops and classes give OSWA members a chance to meet and network with similarly minded people. Many chapters offer tree seedlings to their members, often times at a discounted rate.
Every OSWA membership includes membership in the local chapter. You will meet some of the friendliest and dedicated individuals at these chapter sponsored activities. Find your local chapter.
Publications
A statewide newsletter, The Update, is published 8 times per year to keep members informed of the latest news impacting family forestlands in Oregon. It includes profiles of people who work with the forest, articles about forest management, suggestions for marketing your products and other resources to help you better manage your forestland asset. The "mailbag" section is a forum for members to share their views about issues affecting them.
Northwest Woodlands is a quarterly publication produced in cooperation with affiliated groups in Washington, Idaho and Montana, which covers regional issues. The magazine is dedicated to the management of family forestlands in the Northwest and has many articles by regional experts and forestry education specialists.
Fire Fighting and Woodland Liability Insurance
Oregon state laws make all landowners liable for the expense of fighting certain fires. Special discounted fire fighting expense liability insurance is available for purchase only by OSWA members. General timberland liability insurance is also an option for members.
Join Today!
You can become a member of the Oregon Small Woodlands Association by completing the OSWA Online Application Form.