After a five-year hiatus, the Oregon Coast Economic Summit returned to Lincoln City on Wednesday, May 8. Over 200 attendees gathered at at Chinook Winds Casino Resort to address crucial issues facing coastal communities. Topics ranged from sustainable development, renewable energy, affordable housing, and disaster preparedness, to workforce development and sustainable seafood. Legislators also shared their priorities for the region and how they can help coastal business adapt and thrive.
In his introduction, Rep. David Gomberg, chairman of the Coastal Caucus, said the goal was for attendees to “network, plan, and strategize” on issues affecting the region’s economy.
OCVA Executive Director Marcus Hinz was joined by Hans D. Radtke, Ph.D, to open the conference with a State of the Oregon Coast Economy: an overview of understanding of the local economic dynamics of the Oregon Coast. Their presentation can be viewed here.
Marcus later led a discussion on sustainable fisheries, aquaculture advancement, and seafood processing that explored best practices for fostering sustainable seafood industries and building resiliency in our local food systems.
The summit was a great opportunity to connect with regional partners, and dive into important issues like workforce shortages, affordable housing, and infrastructure needs — all of which are shared concerns across Oregon.
To learn more about the latest research on the economic impact of tourism, explore the resources below:
- Oregon Coast Year 2021 Sources of Income Study: Briefing Report
- Oregon Coast Year 2021 Sources of Income Study: Technical Supplement Report
- Oregon Coastal Counties Social and Economic Characteristics: Sources of Income One-Pagers
- The Research Group, 2022: Oregon Seafood Supply Sources Interim Technical Report
- Travel Oregon 2024: Economic Impact of Travel in Oregon