OAR 695-050-0020: Policy

State law establishes a complementary relationship between state and local management of watersheds. The Board is required by statute to fund restoration, maintenance, and enhancement of watersheds to protect the well-being of the state and its citizens. Board programs will, however, be planned and implemented by responsible parties at the local level. Local comprehensive plans must provide inventories of local watersheds as well as measures for protecting and managing those watersheds in order to comply with Statewide Planning Goals. In order to carry this out, local governments are encouraged to use watershed council assessments and action plans where appropriate. The Board recognizes that coordination between state, local and federal agencies responsible for land management is essential to meeting policy objectives for watershed enhancement established in ORS 541.890 through 541.969. In carrying out its mandate, the Board will maximize the effectiveness of its watershed enhancement efforts by incorporating and accommodating land use objectives as prescribed in acknowledged comprehensive plans.