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All of Oregon’s coastal communities are challenged by seasonal economic activity, aging demographics, and rising cost of living. These factors as well as increasing pressure on marine resources, a shift in federal and state policy towards marine spatial planning, and renewable energy standards have led to Oregon’s decision to amend its Territorial Sea Plan for renewable energy. Citizen involvement was a key element in this process. With a diverse group of stakeholders including industry, state, local and federal government, recreationalists, fishermen, tourists, and conservation groups and the presence of the public trust, involving citizens in coastal and marine planning is especially challenging. Through an analysis of hundreds of public comments and 13 semi structured interviews with stakeholders that participated in the planning and development process this research seeks to understand and learn from Oregon’s citizen involvement process. As a result of this qualitative approach this research established key themes that shed light on the successes, challenges, and limitations of Oregon’s citizen involvement process. This research study provides recommendations that can be implemented as part of Oregon’s continuing process to amend its Territorial Sea Plan and plan for new and diverse uses while continuing to involve Oregon’s diverse ocean users and citizens. |
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