Destination resorts are defined as self-contained developments providing visitor-oriented accomodations and developed recreational facilities in a setting with high natural amenities. Examples include Sunriver in Deschutes County and Brasada Ranch in Crook County.
In order to permit destination resorts in Wasco County, Goal 8 of state law requires Wasco County adopt a map that shows eligible/ineligible areas. State law also outlines the criteria for eligibility:
- Cannot be within 3 miles of high value crop area as mapped by NRCS
- Cannot be in the National Scenic Area
- Cannot be in sensitive big game habitat as mapped by ODFW
There are some additional restrictions on approval, as well.
The Wasco County Planning and GIS teams worked together to analyze Wasco County data and prepare the following eligibility map:
This map is a draft and may be further refined before adoption. The final draft will be available one week before the April 2nd hearing through the Planning Department and on this website.
What the map means:
- No destination resorts can be approved for areas outside of the eligible areas
- Destination resorts are approved through a permit review by Planning staff and must meet criteria
This map is a tool that allows Wasco County to now accept destination resort applications.
Do you have feedback about the map? Submit a comment here. We will discussing this map briefly at our February roadshow meetings and throughout the next several months.