Owned and operated by Meredith Bell, Est Wines uses organic, regenerative farming practices to create wines that are vibrant, expressive, and deeply rooted in the land. Plus, they grow in the exclusive farm use (EFU) zone and manage a tasting room within the urban growth boundary (UGB).

 

“Thoughtful land use and strong protections make it possible to farm in a way that supports soil health, biodiversity, and long-term resilience,” says Bell.

Last week, we looked at actions that individuals, families, and communities can take to protect homes and neighborhoods from the spread of embers and other wildfire-related dangers.

Now, we are zooming out to look at landscape-wide and statewide ways in which we can reduce wildfire risk to communities—which involves statewide policies and programs, including Oregon’s land use system.

Earlier this month, 1000 Friends of Oregon joined AARP Oregon, Community Vision, and Sightline Institute to host a webinar on accessible housing policy and advocacy in Oregon.

The conversation brought together 86 advocates, planners, policymakers, students, housing providers, and community members to explore the fact that while the need for accessible housing continues to rise, there is still widespread confusion about what “accessibility” actually means and what policies currently exist.

Learn what happens when communities come together, share stories, and organize. Spoiler: They envision and enact policies that create more livable communities for everyone!

Land ownership and land use policies and processes have historically propagated and exacerbated inequalities around the nation, and in Oregon. 1000 Friends works to reverse discriminatory practices, policies, and impacts on people.

1000 Friends of Oregon works with Oregonians to enhance quality of life by building livable urban and rural communities, protecting family farms and forests, and conserving natural areas.