The Oregon Department of State Lands wants public comments by August 3 on proposed updates to rules for undersea cables and other infrastructure in the ocean zone off Oregon’s coast.

The current rules are 25 years old. Undersea cables carry internet data and, in some cases, ocean sensors. Future projects may bring power cables from offshore wind farms. A new state law requires fees so companies pay the public for using the ocean bottom, with that money going to Oregon schools.

What would the changes do?

Companies would need stronger plans to protect sea life, remove old equipment when done, and respond to emergencies. They would hold early meetings with state agencies and tribes to catch problems before big applications. New fees would cover the state’s review work and compensate the public for seafloor use.

How to comment

The easiest way is the ONLINE FORM

You can also email [email protected] or mail comments to DSL, 775 Summer Street NE, Suite 100, Salem, OR 97301.

Local hearing in Newport

• Newport: Tuesday, July 21 at 5:00 p.m. at Hatfield Marine Science Center, Classroom 30/32.
• Other in-person meetings in North Bend and Seaside.
• Virtual meeting: Thursday, July 23 at 2:30 p.m.

Deadline is Monday, August 3 at 5:00 p.m. Pacific.

These rules affect internet reliability, possible new energy projects, fishing grounds, ocean health, and money for public schools. This is your chance to weigh in before decisions are made.

Use the link above or attend a hearing.

FULL DEATAILS AND DRAFT DOCUMENTS

Based on the July 1 notice from the Oregon Department of State Lands.