The Oregon coast stretches 362 miles and is home to 33 coastal cities and dozens of smaller unincorporated communities. Drawing scores of visitors each year, the coast is an important part of Oregon's economy, not just for its tourism value, but for its ports, fisheries, and canneries. Oregon is not unique in this regard. Almost every coastal state relies upon its coastal resources as a major economic driver.
Recognizing the value of our coasts, Congress created the National Coastal Zone Management Program in 1972. This program consists of voluntary partnerships between National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and coastal states and territories in which a state or university program takes the lead to manage these special places with assistance from NOAA. In Oregon, DLCD has the responsibility of working closely with our network of local, state, federal, and tribal partners to protect coastal resources and maintain thriving coastal communities. Use the links below to learn more about our coastal partners.