The Portland region has been a leader in providing compact urban development, mixed-use communities, and transportation alternatives over the years. But to ensure that the region, and Metro, do a better job to meet the challenges of the future 1000 Friends of Oregon has been working to improve the urban and rural reserve process. The urban and rural reserves will designate which lands will be protected for agricultural production, forest purposes, and natural resources, and which lands will be developed for urban uses over the next 50 years.

1000 Friends of Oregon staff and volunteers spent several months in the spring and summer at farmers markets throughout the region, spreading the word out about rural and urban reserves. The results have been outstanding. In addition to building strong relationships with local farmers and farmers market managers, we have recruited the direct support of nearly 1000 individuals (982 to be exact). As we have conversations with market shoppers and attendees, we collect their signatures of support for an advocacy message to local elected officials encouraging them to create large rural reserves and maintain great urban areas.

Metro and the counties of Multnomah, Clackamas, and Washington will make their decisions on urban and rural reserves by the end of 2009. Over the past year 1000 Friends of Oregon has nurtured a strong voice in the community for regional agriculture and livable communities. In addition to our public education and outreach we will continue to meet with local elected officials and solidify the region's long term economic and community viability through sensible urban and rural reserve policy.