(a) It is in the best interest of the state to create a simple regulatory approach for the maintenance of channels used for agricultural drainage and to improve awareness of, and compliance with, the removal and fill program provided for under ORS 196.600 to 196.921.
(b) The provisions of ORS 196.906 to 196.919 are designed to protect the economic viability of Oregon’s farmers and ranchers by allowing for the maintenance of channels used for agricultural drainage to be conducted in a manner that protects, maintains or improves ecological function of the channels.
(2) The Legislative Assembly declares that it is the policy of the state:
(a) To adaptively manage the implementation of ORS 196.906 to 196.919 to allow for a workable process for persons to maintain traditionally maintained channels while protecting the ecological and life history functions of fish and wildlife that inhabit the channels; and
(b) To place a high priority on and to encourage the identification and development of opportunities for voluntary actions to restore, improve or enhance the ecological health or benefits of traditionally maintained channels. [2019 c.699 §2]
Note: 196.906 to 196.919 were added to and made a part of 196.600 to 196.921 by legislative action but were not added to any smaller series therein. See Preface to Oregon Revised Statutes for further explanation.