2026 Fall Policy Forum

Forum Archive (members only, login required)

AOR Fall Forum

Join the Association of Oregon Recyclers for our full-day forum dedicated to unpacking the evolving landscape of Oregon’s iconic Bottle Bill and broader materials management policy.

AOR Members: $125   |   Nonmembers: $195

REGISTER

Who Should Attend?

Recycling professionals, municipal staff, policymakers, waste haulers, nonprofit community leaders, and advocates interested in extended producer responsibility, retail redemption pathways, and materials management legislation.

Stay for a Special Retirement Reception!

Immediately following the forum, join us from 4pm to 6pm for a retirement reception honoring Kristan Mitchell. Come toast and celebrate her years of leadership as Executive Director and CEO of ORRA and her long-time support of AOR as she steps into her next chapter!

Forum Agenda

OPENING: Welcome & Setting the Stage (10:00–10:15 a.m.)

10:00–10:15 a.m.

Opening Remarks & Welcome

Setting the stage for the day, forum objectives, and opening context.

PART 1: A Program Shaped by Oregonians: The Evolution of Oregon's Bottle Bill and What We Value About It Today (10:15–11:45 a.m.)

10:15–11:15 a.m.

Historical Context & Modern Legacy

Exploring how Oregon's Bottle Bill has evolved from a pioneering anti-litter law into a modern recycling system shaped by and responsive to the needs of Oregonians.

SPEAKERS

Jerry Powell

Rep. Vicki Berger

Paul Romain

Peter Spendelow

Jason Jordan

Devon Horsfield

11:15–11:45 a.m.

Public Perception & Data Insights

A deep dive into recent DHM survey data highlighting public sentiment, awareness, and strong continued community backing for the program.

SPEAKER

John Horvick

11:45 a.m.–12:45 p.m.
Networking Lunch

PART 2: Convenient Access, Complementary Systems: Building Recycling Choices for Modern Oregon (12:45–2:10 p.m.)

12:45–1:30 p.m.

What's Next for Redemption Access in Portland?

A conversation on how redemption access is evolving in the Portland region, exploring recent policy changes, consumer behavior trends, operational developments, the closure of Delta Park, expanding Green Bag use, alternative return pathways, refund payment options, and the realities of locating redemption facilities in Portland.

SPEAKERS

Taylor Cass Talbott

Kris Brown

Devon Horsfield

1:30–2:00 p.m.

Complementary by Design: Oregon's Dual Approach to Recycling

Crossover discussion that explores how curbside recycling and the Bottle Bill meet different needs and maintain their value to Oregon today.

SPEAKER

Dylan de Thomas

2:00–2:15 p.m.

Building on What Works: Leveraging A Proven System for Better Recycling Outcomes

Hear how CAA and OBRC are partnering to build on existing infrastructure and expertise, creating operational efficiencies that strengthen recycling outcomes across Oregon.

SPEAKERS

Sam Nathman

Marisa Kraft

2:15–2:30 p.m.
Afternoon Break

PART 3: Broader Legislative Updates & Looking Ahead to 2027 (2:30–3:45 p.m.)

2:30–3:00 p.m.

Recycling Modernization Act (RMA) Working Group Update

Progress report from the RMA Partners Working Group, legislative outreach strategies, and joint organizational efforts.

3:00–3:45 p.m.

Future Outlook: 2027 Session Preparation

Anticipated legislative efforts, legal activities, appeals, and key bills on the horizon for the 2027 legislative session.

3:45–4:00 p.m.

Closing Summary & Next Steps

Wrap-up, key takeaways, and call to action for joint advocacy efforts.

Thank You to Our Sustainable Oregon 2026 Sponsors

Title Sponsor

Waste Connections

Scholarship Sponsor

Metro