Lewis & Clark Law Review
First Page
1281
Abstract
Over 30 years ago, Oregon adopted the innovative In-Stream Water Rights Act, which introduced new regulatory tools and incentives for encouraging efficient water consumption, and paved the way for the emergence of water trusts. However, Oregon’s water resources are under increasing strain as the state faces the challenges of over-appropriation and climate change. New solutions are needed to augment the existing regulatory framework. This Comment draws on the principles of adaptive governance and ecological resilience to formulate possible legal solutions to help the state adapt to increasing demands for water, proposing that Oregon leverage corporate social responsibility to encourage investments in water trusts; implement mandatory corporate water consumption disclosures; and use taxes to generate revenue for acquiring in-stream water rights.
Recommended Citation
Lauren Butz,
Using Adaptive Governance to Protect Oregon’s Water Resources,
25
Lewis & Clark L. Rev.
1281
(2022).
Available at:
https://lawcommons.lclark.edu/lclr/vol25/iss4/9