1. (1) The Legislative Assembly finds and declares that:

   1. (a) Mineral exploration is recognized as an integral part of the mineral industry with inherently less risk to the environment than surface or underground mining operations.
   2. (b) Mineral exploration assists in the orderly identification of mineral resources in the state.
   3. (c) Mineral exploration activities are recognized as distinct from operational activities.
2. (2) The Legislative Assembly, therefore, declares that the purposes of ORS 517.702 to 517.755, 517.790, 517.810, 517.910 and 517.920 are to encourage efficient and environmentally sound identification and development of the mineral resources of this state.

[Formerly 517.960]