Oregon proposes “1% for wildlife” tourism tax to fund conservation of 300+ at-risk species

Oregon lawmakers are preparing to vote on an innovative conservation funding bill that would add a modest tax to hotel stays to protect the state’s endangered wildlife. The “1% for Wildlife” proposal would increase Oregon’s hotel and lodging taxes by 1.25 percent, generating nearly $30 million annually for habitat conservation programs managed by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

The legislation addresses a critical funding gap in wildlife conservation. While Oregon’s State Wildlife Action Plan identifies over 300 species at risk of extinction—including the Crater Lake newt, California condor, and North American porcupine—the state’s wildlife agency currently spends only 2% of its budget on conservation programs. Most funding comes from hunting and fishing licenses, leaving little money to prevent species from becoming endangered in the first place.

If passed, Oregon’s hotel tax rate would reach 2.5 percent—still the third-lowest in the United States and less than half of what neighboring states charge. The bill has garnered bipartisan support from both conservation groups and hunting organizations, who see it as an investment in keeping “common species common.” However, the hospitality industry opposes the measure, arguing it could discourage tourism and conferences.

The proposal leverages Oregon’s popular ecotourism industry, with surveys showing that 90% of out-of-state visitors come primarily for the state’s scenic beauty. Conservation advocates argue this creates a logical funding mechanism: tourists who benefit from Oregon’s natural attractions would directly contribute to preserving them. With federal conservation funding under pressure, the bill could serve as a model for other states struggling to fund wildlife protection programs.