Rocky Habitat

Action Alert: Protect Wildlife by Regulating Drone Use

Over a million seabirds and shorebirds nest along Oregon’s coastline every year including the endangered Western Snowy Plover and species of concern like the Black Oystercatcher and the Tufted Puffin.

Black Oystercatchers courtesy of dawn villaescusa

Wildlife disturbances due to improper drone use are increasing on the Oregon coast. Last year alone the Oregon Black Oystercatcher Project documented a rate of more than three drone disturbances a week at active Black Oystercatcher nests.

We have a golden opportunity to better protect nesting sea and shore birds. Oregon State Parks is accepting public comments to help inform where drone take-off and landings within State Parks and along the ocean shore.

See this link to Portland Audubon’s call to action which provides suggested talking points.

Email your comments by April 7 to OPRD.publiccomment@oprd.oregon.gov