A Strategy for Improving Coastal Natural Hazards Management: Oregon's Policy Working Group Approach

by Andrea Ansevin, Oregon State Univ, Corvallis, United States,
James W. Good, Oregon State Univ, Corvallis, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Coastal Zone '93

Abstract:

In recent years there has been growing concern over the inadequacies in coastal natural hazard mitigation policies and implementation efforts in Oregon. These concerns have been increased by the fact of accelerated coastal population growth and a recognition that we are unprepared for the large Cascadia Subduction Zone earthquake that scientists say could occur at any time, given research on recent geologic history of the region. In response, Oregon has embarked on an ambitious coastal hazards policy review and improvement effort. At the core of this effort is a Coastal Natural Hazards Policy Working Group (PWG). Composed of 20 individuals representing a broad range of public and private interests, the PWG is identifying important coastal natural hazard issues, evaluating existing management strategies and examining alternatives, and recommending and supporting needed policy improvements to public and private decision-makers at all levels. Using an 'all-hazards/all-decisions' approach to identify issues and generate alternative strategies, the PWG is examining a wide range of planning , siting, design, protection, and emergency response decisions in affected coastal areas. The PWG is scheduled to make recommendations to local governments, various state commissions, and the state legislature in late 1993.

Subject Headings: Coastal management | Public health and safety | Natural disasters | Public policy | Risk management | Public private partnership | Public opinion and participation | Oregon | United States

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