In this episode, Paul talks to Joseph Youren, Forest Policy Director for Audubon Society of Lincoln City about the nitty gritty world of forest policy. Joseph breaks down the conflict between the timber industry and conservationists and teases out the role of Habitat Conservation Plans and why they are necessary for protecting forests and water. They discuss the power imbalance between the timber industry and conservation groups when it comes to funding and influence, as well as how misinformation can compromise efforts to protect species like the Northern Spotted Owl and Marbled Murrelet. Joseph shares that ultimately, the only way to achieve conservation goals is for communities to stand up and speak out in support for habitat protection.

In the introduction, Paul provides an overview of what birds you can expect to see this month on the Oregon Coast. At the end of the episode, ASLC Digital Media Coordinator Nissa Parker jumps in to share news about ASLC events and projects.

Donate to the Oregon Conservation & Recreation Fund here: https://www.dfw.state.or.us/conservationstrategy/OCRF/

Stand up for Oregon’s state forests: http://www.standtalloregon.org

ASLC Calendar: https://www.lincolncityaudubon.org/events

ASLC Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/audubonlincolncity/

Learn more about ASLC: https://www.lincolncityaudubon.org/

Make sure to follow us on Instagram at @oregoncoastbirdcast and email your questions and suggestions to birdcast@lincolncityaudubon.org!