LNG pipeline permitting bill to be considered in special session

A bill to fast track permitting for liquefied natural gas (LNG) pipeline permitting – and sidestep property owners objections - will be considered as part of the Oregon Legislature’s special session.

Senate Bill 1020, introduced by the Senate Business and Transportation Committee, would allow LNG companies to apply for and receive wetland removal-fill permits on private land without landowner approval or notice.

At face value, the bill is intended to ease permitting restrictions for construction by public entities, but there is no language excluding private entities from taking advantage of the fast track approval. If approved by state legislators, the change would take effect immediately.

Farm bureaus, forestry groups, and property rights advocates opposed a similar bill (as HB 3058) during the last session because the proposed change makes it easier for LNG companies to obtain permits without landowner permission.

The same opponents are urging supporters to contact their representatives to oppose the passage of the SB 1020. Visit www.leg.state.or.us for a list of legislators and their contact information.

Learn to landscape for healthy yards, streams

Environment-friendly landscaping is the topic of an upcoming program at the Friends of Straub Environmental Learning Center.

Deborah Topp, natural resource outreach specialist with the City of Salem, discusses rain gardens and other landscaping options that reduce pollution, conserve water, and create havens for birds, pollinators, and other wildlife.

The program is slated for 7 p.m. on Feb. 18 at Straub Environmental Learning Center, 1320 A St. NE, next to Olinger Pool. Cost is $5 and registration is required. To register, please call 503-391-4145.

February is a birders delight

A pair of events cater to the birding set this month.

On Feb. 9, Marti and Lew Ligocki share photographs of their adventures in the Skgit Valley during winter as part of Birders’ Night at Willamette University Library.

The flocking begins at 6:30 p.m. with informal sharing of bird sightings and stories. The presentation starts at 7:30 p.m. Anyone with an interest in birds is welcome at the free event.

The Salem Audubon Society hosts a class beginning Feb. 25 on the mysteries and marvels of the birds in the Willamette Valley. The classes are designed for people who are curious about birds, whether they are beginners or already have some experience. Leaders point out the best places to see birds and offer techniques to help identify different species.

The four-week class meets each Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Carrier Room of the First United Methodist Church at 600 State Street in downtown Salem. Cost is $8 per session.

Each session also offers specific identification keys for about 12 species (a total of about 50 species over the four classes) that are here in the Willamette Valley right now.

Reservations are requested but not required. Call the Salem Audubon Society office at 503-588-7340 between 1 and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday or e-mail audubons@qwestoffice.net.