Florence’s Commitment to Forests, Dunes, Water & Wildlife
Florence, Oregon is shaped by water, wind, forests, and dunes. From the Siuslaw River to the Pacific shoreline, from coastal lakes to towering stands of temperate rainforest, our identity is inseparable from the natural systems that surround us.
In Florence, stewardship is not an abstract ideal. It is a daily practice rooted in partnership, education, and shared responsibility. A vibrant economy, thriving tourism industry, and high quality of life all depend on healthy ecosystems. Sustainable tourism is essential to our future.
From Destination Marketing to Destination Management
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce is often referred to as a Destination Marketing Organization. Today, we embrace a broader role as a Destination Management Organization.
This shift reflects a commitment not just to inviting visitors, but to caring for the places they come to experience. Stewardship is part of our responsibility to residents and guests alike. Whether you live here or are visiting for the first time, we invite you to join us in protecting this extraordinary place.
Working Together for a Stronger Coast
Stewardship in Florence is collaborative. We are proud to work alongside partners who share a commitment to protecting and sustaining the Central Oregon Coast, including:
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Confederated Tribes of Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians
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Local watershed councils, conservation groups, and dedicated volunteers
Together, these partnerships protect vital habitats, support endangered wildlife, strengthen resilience, and preserve the landscapes that define Florence.
Protecting Forests, River, Dunes & Sea
Florence sits at the rare confluence of dunes, forest, lakes, river, and ocean. Regional stewardship priorities include:
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Sustainable forest management
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Salmon habitat restoration
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Watershed protection
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Coastal habitat conservation
These efforts safeguard water quality, biodiversity, recreation access, and the scenic beauty that draws visitors from around the world.
Education Builds Connection
Environmental stewardship thrives when people experience the land firsthand. Through interpretive programs, guided hikes, paddle events, volunteer restoration projects, and partnerships with schools and community organizations, residents and visitors gain a deeper appreciation for the ecological richness of the Siuslaw region.
We encourage everyone to explore while following one simple principle. Take out everything you bring in and consider taking a little extra.
Connection builds care. Care builds long term conservation.
Building Climate Resilience
As a coastal community, Florence understands the importance of forward thinking environmental planning. Through shoreline resilience strategies, forest health initiatives, watershed stabilization projects, and long term conservation planning, our region is preparing for changing environmental conditions while protecting what makes this coast special.
The goal is clear. Ensure future generations inherit a coast as vibrant as the one we treasure today.
Where Conservation & Prosperity Meet
Florence demonstrates that economic vitality and ecological responsibility can move forward together. Government agencies, nonprofits, tribal partners, businesses, and volunteers collaborate to address environmental challenges with innovation and inclusiveness.
Our forests, rivers, dunes, and ocean are not just scenery. They shape our identity, culture, history, economy, and sense of belonging.
Join Us
The Florence Area Chamber of Commerce invites residents, businesses, and visitors to take part in protecting and celebrating this remarkable stretch of the Central Oregon Coast. Through education, advocacy, sustainable tourism, and hands on involvement, we can ensure that Florence remains a place where nature and community thrive together for generations to come.
