Blue Economy Task Force To Begin Meeting

Oregon’s new Blue Economy Task Force, established by Senate Bill 1525 during the 2026 legislative session, is beginning work to identify opportunities to strengthen Oregon’s coastal economy while protecting the health and resilience of the state’s coastal ecosystems.

In addition to two legislative members, 16 community members have been appointed to the task force. The first meeting will be on September 2 at 1:00pm The task force is charged with taking a comprehensive look at Oregon’s blue economy — including existing economic development strategies, programs, infrastructure, workforce initiatives, research, investment and regulatory pathways — and identifying opportunities to support sustainable growth.

“Oregon has an extraordinary opportunity to build a stronger coastal economy while remaining committed to the long-term health of our ocean and coastal ecosystems,” said Representative David Gomberg, Chair of the Blue Economy Task Force. “We’re discussing topics like Oregon seafood and coastal habitat, things that Oregonians from all over the state — and the world — appreciate.  The goal is to identify practical strategies that can create wide-reaching economic opportunity, strengthen coastal communities, and support sustainable innovation.”

“Successful blue economy development requires collaboration across industries, communities, government, Tribes, research institutions and environmental interests,” said Senator David Brock Smith, Vice Chair of the task force. “The strength of this effort will come from bringing those perspectives together and focusing on solutions that can work for Oregon’s coastal communities.”

The task force must submit its report, including any recommendations for legislation, to the Oregon Legislative Assembly and to the Ocean Policy Advisory Council by September 15, 2027.