Earthtalk

It is true that it is difficult to restrict construction in risky areas (news article, March29) such as at the Oso landslide but that is no excuse for inaction on the part of government agencies and politicians.  Every time limits on development are imposed or even suggested, property owners complain vociferously until authorities and politicians cave in.  When a disaster later damages or destroys their property they accept government assistance via rescue efforts, flood insurance subsidies, disaster relief, and infrastructure repairs.  Other taxpayers end up footing the bill for their poor land use choices and the inability of politicians to stand up to the heat.

Since the 1970's Oregon has required towns, cities, and unincorporated areas of counties to have comprehensive land use plans that include substantial consideration of geologic hazards.  Many of these plans include the requirement that no construction is allowed in hazardous areas without first having a site-specific study completed by a geologist.  Los Angeles County has had a similar requirement for hillside areas since the 1950's.  These measures greatly reduce damages and in the case of the Oso slide would have saved lives.