Two programs comprise the Institute for Natural Resources:

Information Program

The Institute’s Information Program integrates and provides comprehensive information about Oregon's natural resources and environment to support effective decision-making at local, state and regional levels. The Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center, part of the Institute, is working in partnership with the Oregon State University (OSU) Libraries’ Natural Resources Digital Library (under development), to make information, text, data, maps, photographs, video and more easily accessible to researchers and the public through web-based portals. Additional partners include the Oregon Department of Administrative Services’ GeoSpatial Data Clearinghouse and other federal and state agencies.

Information Program Projects Oregon Natural Heritage Information Center OWEB Acquisition Prioritization ODFW Comprehensive Wildlife Conservation Strategy New Publications and Updates Sage Map Willamette Basin Conservation Project North Coast Web Portal Watershed indicators Pacific Northwest Regional Collaboratory OSU Libraries’ Natural Resources Digital Library

Policy Research Program

The Institute of Natural Resources’ Policy Research Program identifies and clarifies policy issues and provides relevant, science-based information so policy makers and citizens can obtain unbiased, independent expert advice. Based on independent analysis of the best available information, INR develops, tests and implements new policy making methods and tools, responding to requests from citizens, businesses and agencies at local, state, tribal and federal levels. All Institute projects are grounded in rigorous criteria and take advantage of expertise from throughout Oregon. The Program identifies research necessary to address resource policy and management challenges and facilitates responsive interdisciplinary studies. The Institute’s program complements research conducted through universities, public agencies and private business. INR research produces studies that describe and quantify status and trends of Oregon’s environment and natural resources and studies on key environmental and management questions requested by local, state, tribal, federal or private organizations. The Institute adds value through its network of scientists on environmental monitoring, research evaluation and prioritization, environmental indicator development and biodiversity assessments.

Policy Research Program Projects Near Shore Columbia Sediment Management Salmon Anchor Habitat Project Oregon Fire Program Review Walla Walla Basin Habitat Conservation Plan Aggregate Mining Marine Science Advisory Panel Coastal Community Water Suppy Climate Change Science Conference