What is the Oregon Ocean Policy Advisory Council?
The Oregon Ocean Policy Advisory Council (OPAC) is the legislatively mandated marine policy advisory body. It provides, among other statutory charges, advice to the Governor, state agencies and local governments on ocean policy and resource management matters (ORS 196.433). The OPAC has diverse membership made up of representatives from coastal community interests, state agencies, conservation interests, and the general public. OPAC meetings are usually held on the Oregon coast twice a year. The Council's membership is defined by
ORS 196.438. View the current
OPAC roster for a full list of council members and their positions.
The Ocean Policy Advisory Council has no authority to directly regulate ocean activities or manage resources or to enforce its plans or policies. However, once its plans and policies are approved by the Land Conservation and Development Commission as a part of Oregon's Coastal Management Program, the various state agencies are required to carry them out or act consistently with them.
OPAC Working Groups
Oregon's Ocean Policy Advisory Council performs much of its work in smaller groups. None of these groups has any added authority over that of OPAC itself, and all decisions and positions of OPAC are developed and made or taken by the entire council.
Current OPAC Working Groups include-
- Executive Committee
- Scientific and Technical Advisory Committee
- A topical Working Group focused on the Territorial Sea Plan for Rocky Shores Management
View
OPAC Working Groups to learn more about projects each of these sub-groups are working on.
OPAC Meetings and How to Get Involved
OPAC Meetings are open to the public and conducted in accordance with the Councils
Operating Procedures. We invite all interested parties to attend meetings and give comment.
View
upcoming OPAC events, sign up for
Oregon Marine Policy email updates, and visit
www.OregonOcean.info to learn more and stay up to date with council activities.