Meet Some of the Largest Land Owners In Oregon

Oregon, renowned for its stunning landscapes and natural wonders, is home to many landowners who have shaped its geography and history. Oregon, located in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States, is known for its diverse landscapes, from its rugged coastline to the Cascade Mountains and high desert plains.

Oregon’s landownership is as varied as the scenery. The United States Government, the State of Oregon, families, and organizations all own up pieces of the gorgeous state.

In this article, we delve into the world of the largest landowners in Oregon, uncovering the individuals, families, and organizations that hold immense stretches of this majestic state.

1. The United States Government

28,500,000 acres

The largest landowner in Oregon, the federal government, possesses approximately 60% of the state’s total land area, equating to roughly 28.5 million acres. Similarly, the government’s extensive holdings encompass a wide range of landscapes, including national forests, wildlife refuges, and military bases. Moreover, these expansive tracts of land not only provide recreational opportunities for residents and visitors but also make significant contributions to job creation within the state.

Oregon is home to several national forests, expertly managed by the U.S. Forest Service, which is a part of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Notable examples include the Deschutes National Forest, Mount Hood National Forest, Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, Umpqua National Forest, and many others.

Under the administration of the U.S. Department of the Interior, the National Park Service diligently oversees and manages national parks in Oregon. Crater Lake National Park, situated in the southern part of the state, is particularly renowned for its breathtaking volcanic crater and pristine lake.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, also operating under the U.S. Department of the Interior, is responsible for the supervision of several wildlife refuges in Oregon. Prominent examples include Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, Klamath National Wildlife Refuge, and William L. Finley. Additionally, the U.S. Department of Defense owns and operates military bases in Oregon, such as the Umatilla Army Depot and Camp Rilea, primarily utilized for military training and operations.

2. The State of Oregon

3,000,000 acres

Ranked as the second-largest landowner in the state, Oregon possesses ownership of an impressive expanse of over 3 million acres. This extensive land is allocated for diverse purposes, encompassing state parks, forests, and wildlife management areas. Consequently, the state’s meticulous land management practices wield a substantial influence on both the environment and the economy, shaping the delicate balance between preservation and utilization.

The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department manages a network of state parks throughout Oregon. These parks include coastal areas, inland forests, and recreational sites, providing opportunities for camping, hiking, picnicking, and other outdoor activities.

3. The Green Diamond Resource Company

900,000 acres

Based in the state of Washington, the Green Diamond Resource Company is a forest products company with about 900,000 acres of land in Oregon. With a steadfast dedication to sustainable forestry practices, their operations have substantially impacted Oregon’s timber industry, contributing to its growth and development.

4. The Weyerhaeuser Company

630,000 acres

Hailing from the state of Washington, the Weyerhaeuser Company is a forest products company with approximately 630,000 acres of land in Oregon. Recognizing the significance of environmental responsibility, they have actively invested in pioneering technologies to minimize their ecological footprint. Through these efforts, Weyerhaeuser has demonstrated a commitment to sustainable practices and reducing their environmental impact in Oregon and beyond.

5. The Fidelity National Financial Inc.

565,000 acres

Headquartered in Florida, Fidelity National Financial Inc. is a prominent financial services company that boasts ownership of approximately 565,000 acres of land in Oregon. Their diverse land portfolio encompasses a range of properties, including timberland, ranches, and various other types of real estate. This extensive land ownership highlights Fidelity National Financial’s involvement in the Oregon land market, contributing to its diverse business interests and investment strategies.

6. The Hancock Timber Resource Group

400,000

Based in Boston, the Hancock Timber Resource Group is an investment management company that holds ownership of approximately 400,000 acres of land in Oregon. Moreover, they demonstrate a steadfast commitment to sustainable forestry practices and actively promote responsible land management strategies. Additionally, the company maintains a diverse investment portfolio that encompasses numerous timberland holdings. As a result, Hancock Timber Resource Group plays a crucial role in preserving and enhancing the long-term productivity of Oregon’s forested landscapes. Their dedication to sustainable practices, coupled with strategic investments, contributes significantly to the state’s forestry sector.

7. The Broughton Lumber Company

300,000 acres

Headquartered in Oregon, the Broughton Lumber Company is a family-owned timber company that possesses around 300,000 acres of land within the state. Moreover, as a local enterprise deeply ingrained in Oregon’s forestry industry, they actively participate in responsible land management practices. Furthermore, with its substantial land holdings, the Broughton Lumber Company assumes a crucial role in the sustainable utilization of Oregon’s timber resources. This not only contributes to the state’s economy but also upholds a longstanding legacy of responsible stewardship and environmental consciousness.

8. The Roseburg Forest Products

250,000 acres

Headquartered in Oregon, Roseburg Forest Products is a family-owned timber company that proudly owns approximately 250,000 acres of land within the state. Roseburg Forest Products is an established local enterprise with deep ties to Oregon’s forestry sector, actively engaging in sustainable land management practices. With its substantial land holdings, the company plays a significant role in responsible timber production, bolstering the state’s economy and exemplifying a commitment to long-term environmental stewardship.

9. The Lone Rock Timber Management Company

200,000 acres

Based in Oregon, the Lone Rock Timber Management Company is a family-owned timber company with ownership of approximately 200,000 acres of land within the state. Lone Rock Timber Management actively engages in responsible land management practices as a dedicated local enterprise. For that reason, with its significant land holdings, the company plays a crucial role in sustainable timber production, contributing to Oregon’s economy while upholding a commitment to environmental stewardship.

Famous Oregon National Parks

Oregon has several stunning national parks showcasing the state’s natural beauty and diverse ecosystems. Here are three notable national parks in Oregon:

Crater Lake National Park

Located in the southern part of the state, Crater Lake National Park is famous for its breathtaking deep blue lake. The lake fills the caldera of an ancient volcano. Significantly, the lake is one of the clearest in the world and is surrounded by rugged cliffs. Furthermore, visitors can explore the park’s trails, take scenic drives, and enjoy panoramic views of the lake from various viewpoints.

Oregon Caves National Monument and Preserve

This national monument is nestled in the Siskiyou Mountains of southwestern Oregon and is renowned for its unique marble caves. Visitors can take guided cave tours to explore the intricate labyrinth of chambers and formations. Henceforth, the surrounding preserve also offers opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing.

Lewis and Clark National Historical Park

Situated along the coast of Oregon, this national historical park commemorates the Lewis and Clark Expedition journey. The park includes several sites, including Fort Clatsop, where the expedition wintered. The Salt Works where the explorers extracted salt from seawater. Visitors can learn about the expedition’s history, hike nature trails, and enjoy scenic coastal views.

Summary of The 10 Largest Land Owners In Oregon

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