RESOLUTION No. 36135

Authorize participation in U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds (Resolution)

WHEREAS, migratory birds are an important element of the City of Portland’s urban ecosystem and are indicators of the health of the urban environment; and

WHEREAS, the City of Portland is an important part of the Pacific Flyway and provides critical resting, feeding and nesting habitat for migratory birds, both those that fly long distances and those that migrate shorter distances within the metropolitan region; and

WHEREAS, as a key and important resident of the Portland, the City and the citizens of Portland have a responsibility to ensure that migratory birds, and their habitats, are protected so that they remain forever a part of the City’s diverse ecological landscape; and

WHEREAS, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, too, sees the value of migratory birds and urban landscapes and through its Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Bird Program, Portland has been selected to be a pilot city; and

WHEREAS, participation in the Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds further demonstrates the City of Portland’s long-term commitment to the protection and conservation of migratory birds; and

WHEREAS, existing efforts such as River Renaissance, Endangered Species Act Program, Watershed Revegetation Program and Parks Natural Resources/Stewardship Program at the City of Portland reflects the interdependence and importance of migratory birds in our community; and

WHEREAS, through partnerships with community groups, schools and other governmental entities, the City works collaboratively to ensure healthy habitat and safe environment for migratory birds; and

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED the City of Portland shall participate in the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Urban Conservation Treaty for Migratory Birds Program.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Portland and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service shall celebrate this new partnership by signing a symbolic treaty at the Songbird Festival on May 10, 2003.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City of Portland shall create an action plan to: raise awareness of migratory birds in Portland’s urban ecosystem; share and increase knowledge of the needs and ecological functions of migratory birds; recognize and promote existing efforts to conserve and enhance the health of our migratory bird population; and identify and pursue new actions that will ensure their diversity is maintained through time.

Adopted by the Council: May 07, 2003      GARY BLACKMER

Auditor of the City of Portland

Prepared by:              By /S/ Susan Parsons

Margaret Nover              Deputy

BACKING SHEET INFORMATION

AGENDA NO. 406-2003

ORDINANCE/RESOLUTION/COUNCIL DOCUMENT NO. 36135