2011 ANNUAL REPORT

Global Challenges Regional Solutions

Rep. Mike SchauflerPNWER President 2011-2012

Oregon

Events over the past year have reinforced the importance and need for nations and regions to cooperate as we confront the challenges of recovering from the world-wide economic downturn, as well as addressing natural and man-made challenges that have impacted all of us. PNWER has played an important role in contributing to economic development and innovation as we share our best practices and ideas as leaders between our neighboring jurisdictions. By working together, and building on each others’ strengths, we better serve our constituents, and are better able to capitalize on opportunities to create jobs and enhance our shared future.

It has been an honor and privilege to serve as President of PNWER, and I thank the PNWER members for this opportunity. Following are some of the highlights that I have been proud to see the organization accomplish over the past year.

• PNWER provided over 60 comments and recommendations from regional stakeholders to both federal governments regarding enhancing US-Canada trade and security as part of the Beyond the Border Initiative and Regulatory Cooperation Council announced by President Obama and Prime Minister Harper in February, 2011; and many of these made it into the Action Plan announced on December 7, 2011; probably the most significant development on US-Canada relations since NAFTA.

• PNWER implemented the second Legislative Energy Horizon Institute certificate program for 44 state and provincial legislators from both countries, together with partners, including the University of Idaho and US Department of Energy. This program is designed for legislators to understand the fundamentals of how the region’s energy infrastructure functions, and will provide graduates with a coveted Certificate of Energy Policy.

• Implemented the PNWER Arctic Caucus and held the first meeting in Barrow, Alaska last winter to discuss arctic issues concerning infrastructure, security and economic development in the north, and a subsequent meeting this summer in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, where over 75 key leaders from throughout the region met and developed an Arctic Action Plan.

• PNWER led a coordinated effort in cooperation with over 35 partner organizations, in achieving clearance for the continuation of a second train in and out of Vancouver BC, tying Oregon, Washington and British Columbia together. The second train brings in an estimated $11.8 million in economic benefits to the region.

• The Third Legislative Academy was held November 14 – 17 in Victoria, BC along with PNWER’s Economic Leadership Forum, and 35 legislators attended and graduated from the program, which featured a panel with several State Senate Presidents and Speakers from both countries.

In the 8 years I have been involved, PNWER has made me a better legislator, and has provided me with opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of many issues across our region that I would not otherwise have had, and to build important relationships across our state and national boundaries. I thank all PNWER sponsors, supporters, and my colleagues for your involvement, and I encourage you to continue to invest in this organization for the future of our children, and our region.

Sincerely,

Representative Mike Schaufler, OregonPNWER President, 2011-2012

ContentsIntroduction

The Year at a GlanceWho We Are: About PNWERWho We Are: PNWER Board and Staff

2011 Annual SummitWashington State Innovation HearingColumbia River Treaty Symposium 3rd Annual Cross Border Livestock Health ConferenceInvasive Species Conference University Presidents Roundtable

2011 Winter MeetingEconomic Leadership Forum Innovation Energy StorageTelecommunicationsLegislative Leadership Academy

2011 Working Groups and Action Items

Arctic CaucusCapital VisitsCenter for Regional Disaster ResilienceLegislative Energy Horizon Institute Border Issues

2011 Finances Supporters and Acknowledgements

2012 Annual Summit

Conferences

Programs

Finances

Upcoming Events

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1213

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30

Introduction2011: The Year at a Glance

January February March

April May June

Pacific NorthWest Critical Manufacturing Coordination Meeting for the Department

of Homeland Security

PNWER continued work with the Washington Fusion Center to develop its critical infrastructure concept of operations. Washington now has one of the most advanced mechanisms in the nation to communicate with critical service providers regarding security and intelligence matters.

PNWER lead an effort in achieving clearance allowing for the continuation of a second train in and out of Vancouver, tying Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia together. The second train brings in an estimated $11.8 million in economic benefits to the region.

Critical infrastructure advisory meeting in

Ottawa

Provided the U.S. and Canadian governments with over 75 recommendations for removing trade barriers and improving border security for the Beyond the Border Action Plan http://bit.ly/rEU0Fv

Hosted a Private Sector Roundtable in Boise, Idaho

PNWER hosted the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, David Jacobson, in Seattle for a roundtable

discussion with Washington leaders on regulatory barriers hindering cross-border trade

between the U.S. and Canada (page 27)

Worked to develop an impact analysis and regional flood resilience action strategy for the Green River Valley in coordination with the US Army Corps of Engineers , Department of Homelands Security, and state and local stakeholders

Regional Resilience conference for the national Dam Sector Exercise Series (page 25)

Disaster resilience information sharing workshop (page 27)

Perimeter security and Beyond the Border Dialogue

Regional capital visits (page 23)

4 • PNWER

2011: The Year at a Glance

July SeptemberAugust

Implemented the second PNWER Legislative Energy Horizon

Institute with 47 legislators making up the new class

(page 26)

PNWER 21st Annual Summit in Portland, Oregon

(page 8) Held a regional exercise with state and provincial veterinarians to examine the impact of a Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak in our region (page 10)

Second Arctic Caucus Forum held in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories (page 22)

PNWER staff retreat and strategic planning meeting

Center for Regional Disaster Resilience website launched http://regionalresilience.org/

October DecemberNovember

2011 Winter Meeting in Victoria, British Columbia, including the Legislative Leadership Academy, Economic Leadership Forum and Legislative Transportation Institute (page 12)

PNWER officers visit Ottawa (page 23)

Hosted Canadian Labour Minister Lisa Raitt for roundtable in Seattle

5 •

IntroductionWho We Are: About PNWER

PNWER is the preeminent bi-national advocate for regional state, provincial, and territorial issues.

The Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) is a public-private partnership chartered by the states of Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington; the western Canadian provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan; and Yukon and Northwest Territories. PNWER is dedicated to encouraging global economic competitiveness and preserving our world-class natural environment. PNWER is recognized by both the United States and Canada federal governments as the “model” for regional and bi-national cooperation because of its proven success. PNWER is a respected voice and resource for our region. It provides the public and private sectors a cross-border forum for unfiltered dialogue that capitalizes upon the synergies between business leaders and elected officials working to advance the region’s global competitiveness.

Public and Private Sector Leadership

PNWER delivers results on regional issues through action plans developed within 20 working groups that correspond to the region’s key priorities. Each working group is co-chaired by an industry leader and a government representative. PNWER is a forum for collaborative bi-national planning involving both the public and private sectors and offers leadership at the state/provincial/territorial level in Salem, Olympia, Boise, Helena, Juneau, Edmonton, Victoria, Regina, Whitehorse, and Yellowknife, and at the national level in Washington D.C. and Ottawa.

The Region’s Future

With over $1 trillion (USD) in gross regional product, the US Pacific Northwest (Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington) and Western Canada (Alberta, British Columbia, Northwest Territories, Saskatchewan, and Yukon) is one of the fastest growing regions of North America. This region is China and East Asia’s gateway to North America, and is home to several major infrastructure projects and business opportunities. Now, more than ever, the Pacific Northwest needs a bi-national, regional advocate that works with both the public and private sectors.

6 • PNWER

PNWER President Rep. Mike Schaufler, Oregon State House of Representatives, talking with Canada’s Prime Minister Stephen Harper during the 2011 PNWER delegation’s visit to Ottawa.

Who We Are: PNWER Board and Delegate Council

Jurisdiction Leads

State Sen. Lesil McGuireAlaska

Mr. George Groeneveld, MLAAlberta

Mr. John Les, MLABritish Columbia

Rep. George EskridgeIdaho

Sen. Cliff LarsenMontana

Hon. Currie DixonYukon

Private Sector Representatives

Neil Windsor, APEGGACanada Co-Chair

Jan Romerdahl, US BankUS Co-chair

Matt Morrison, PNWER CEO Delegate Council

AlaskaGov. Sean ParnellSen. Fred DysonSen. Charlie Huggins (Alt)Sen. Lesil McGuireSen. Tom Wagoner (Alt)Rep. Bryce EdgmonRep. Bob HerronRep. Peggy WilsonRep. Reggie Joule (Alt)

AlbertaPremier Alison RedfordAlana DeLong, MLAKyle Fawcett, MLA

George Groeneveld, MLAMel Knight, MLARichard Marz, MLALen Mitzel, MLA

British ColumbiaPremier Christy ClarkRichard Lee, MLAJohn Les, MLAJohn Yap, MLA

Idaho Gov. C.L. Butch Otter Sen. John GoeddeSen. Edgar Malepeai (Alt)Sen. Monty Pearce (Alt)Sen. Michelle StennettRep. George EskridgeRep. Elfreda Higgins (Alt) Rep. Elaine SmithRep. John "Bert" Stevenson (Alt)

MontanaGov. Brian SchweitzerSen. Cliff LarsenSen. Jim PetersonSen. Rick Ripley (Alt)Rep. Betsy HandsRep. Daniel Salomon (Alt)Rep. Jeff WelbornRep. Kathleen Williams (Alt)

Northwest TerritoriesPremier Bob McLeodHon. David Ramsay

OregonGov. John KitzhaberSen. Rod MonroeSen. David NelsonSen. Doug Whitsett (Alt)Rep. John HuffmanRep. Mike SchauflerRep. Patrick Sheehan (Alt)

Saskatchewan Premier Brad WallHon. Bill BoydMichael Chisholm, MLA (Ret.) Dustin Duncan, MLALyle Stewart, MLA

WashingtonGov. Chis GregoireSen. Maralyn Chase (Alt)Sen. Jim HoneyfordSen. Cheryl Pflug (Alt)Sen. Kevin RankerRep. Glenn AndersonRep. Bruce Chandler (Alt)Rep. Deb EddyRep. Bob Hasegawa (Alt)Rep. John McCoy (Alt)

YukonPremier Darrell PasloskiHon. Currie Dixon

Private Sector Council

Alaska Paul Quesnel, BP

Alberta Tim Boston, Captial PowerDuane Lyons, AltaLinkPeter Kruselnicki, TransCanadaBryan Maynard, Marathon

British ColumbiaDon Dalik, Fasken MartineauSarah McCullough, SpectraJock Finlayson, Business Council of BCColin Smith, APEGBC

IdahoRoy Eiguren, Eiguren Public Law & PolicyNeil Colwell, AvistaRuss Hendricks, Idaho Farm Bureau

Montana Haley Beaudry, Columbia Falls Aluminum Co.

Northwest TerritoriesChuck Parker, Discovery Air

Oregon Scott Farris, TransCanada PipelinesJames Baumgartner, Black HelterlineAmy Keiter, SolarWorld

SaskatchewanDennis Paddock, APEGS

Washington Jan Romerdahl, US BankWilliam Kidd, BPKen Johnson, Puget Sound EnergyJerry Cochran, MicrosoftBill Struyk, Johnson & Johnson

Yukon Don Pumphrey, NorthwestTel

PNWER Staff

Matt Morrison Executive DirectorBrandon Hardenbrook Deputy DirectorIan Burkheimer Director of PartnershipsSteve Myers Program ManagerRachael Latschaw Event ManagerMegan Levy Program Coordinator

Bold = State/Provincial Lead

Rep. Mike SchauflerPresident Oregon

Sen. Kevin RankerVice President

Washington

Mr. Lyle Stewart, MLAVice President Saskatchewan

Mr. Mel Knight, MLAImm. Past President

Alberta

Hon. David RamsayVice President

Northwest Territories

Executive Committee Officers

7 •

ConferencesAnnual Summit | Portland, Oregon

Over 650 regional government and business leaders gathered July 19-22 in Portland, Oregon for the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) 21st Annual Summit. The Summit provided an opportunity for delegates to address issues facing the region, such as the intersection of the smart grid and smart buildings; transportation innovation; renewable energy generation; cross-border collaboration for the control of invasive species; the Columbia River Treaty; and the role of public/private partnerships in infrastructure finance. Over the course of the conference, nineteen working groups met including the Cross-Border Livestock Health Conference, Columbia River Treaty Symposium, Invasive Species Conference,

and a Washington State legislative joint committee hearing on Innovation.

PNWER working groups develop Action Items based on session discussions, which serve as PNWER’s work plan for the year. The 2011 Action Items are available on page 12. For more information on the 2011 Summit, including presentations and agenda, please visit: www.pnwer.org/2011AnnualSummit.aspx

2011 Annual SummitWorking Group Sessions:

Arctic CaucusBorder IssuesCross-Border Livestock HealthDisaster ResilienceElectric VehiclesEnergyHealth CareInnovationInvasive SpeciesNatural Resource Development: MiningNatural Gas VehiclesOcean EnergyRenewable EnergySustainable DevelopmentTrade and Economic DevelopmentTransportationTourismWater PolicyWomen in Natural ResourcesWorkforce Development

A TOAST TO INNOVATION

“Although I have been aware of PNWER for many years, Portland was my first PNWER event and it can only be described as amazing. The interaction of elected representatives, government officials, academia and think tanks, and industry people was very special and the variety of topics covered made the most difficult part of the conference selecting which sessions to attend.” -- Jason BrisBois, Director, Western centre for economic research, University of alBerta

8 • PNWER

Outgoing PNWER president Mel Knight, MLA, Alberta (left), congratulates new PNWER President Rep. Mike Schaufler, Oregon State House of Representatives.

During the 2011 Annual Summit, the Washington State Legislature held a joint House and Senate committee hearing. This marked the first time a PNWER jurisdiction held an official hearing during the Summit. The House of Representatives Committee on Community Development & Housing and State Senate Committee on Economic Development, Trade, and Innovation met jointly to hear from Innovation thought leaders. Speakers testified on best practices for innovation policy. The hearing segued into an insightful working group session that highlighted the need to examine 3 specific areas of innovation policy: Foundation, including benchmarking of innovation policies and practices, and building a knowledge base; Tools and mechanisms, such as fostering an innovation network and policy procedure; and Promoting policies that support the development of an innovation ecosystem. TV-W filmed the hearing and a streaming version is available on the PNWER website: www.pnwer.org/WorkingGroups/Innovation.aspx

Washington State Innovation Hearing

The PNWER Columbia River Symposium brought together state and provincial legislative members, sovereigns, and other stakeholder representatives from both the US and Canada to have a discussion around the Columbia River Treaty Review process. According to the treaty, 2014 is the earliest date either nation can give ten years notice of any changes or cancelation to the treaty.

The PNWER Columbia River Symposium began with a brief overview of the history and provisions of the Treaty, and a summary of the results of the Phase I and Supplemental Studies that have been completed by the US. The symposium also looked at the next

steps to be undertaken in the processes leading up to the 2014/2024 review.

The floor was then opened to the legislative members: Senator Karen Fraser, WA; Senator Curt McKenzie, ID; Senator Cliff Larsen, MT; Hon. Bill Bennett, MLA, BC; allowing them to ask questions and make comments. For many legislators this was one of the first opportunities they have had to learn more about the overall process. Legislators and stakeholders then had a dialogue with representatives providing perspectives from regional tribal and first nations groups from both the US and Canada.

One of the major outcomes from the discussion was the recognition of the need to include Legislative members in the overall process. Their lack of understanding was seen as a gap. Many participants also felt PNWER should continue to assist in bringing the disparate groups around the region together to further the dialogue.

Columbia River Treaty Symposium

9 •

During the Summit, 22 working groups held sessions to address regional policy issues in topics ranging from invasive species to energy storage

John Yap, MLA, British Columbia; Mayor Sam Adams of Portland; Amb. Gary Doer; Hon. Barry Penner, Attorney General, British Columbia; and Bill Bennett, MLA, British Columbia add a sign post to Vancouver BC in Downtown Portland

ConferencesAnnual Summit | Portland, Oregon

10 • PNWER

PNWER hosted state, provincial, territorial, and federal veterinarians, animal health, and industry representatives and elected officials from both Canada and the United States July 21-22. The 4th Annual Cross Border Livestock Health conference provided delegates with the opportunity to enhance cross border cooperation on animal health issues through relationships and network building. It also provided an opportunity to exchange information on animal health issues/concerns and emergency response to emerging and foreign animal disease. This year's conference was co-chaired by Oregon state Veterinarian, Dr. Don Hansen and Saskatchewan Chief Veterinarian Officer,

Dr. Greg Douglas. Both played an instrumental role in designing and facilitating the exercise.

The 2011 conference focused on the impact of a hypothetical Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak in our region. Stakeholders participated in a table-top exercise discussion focused on preparedness, response and recovery using a scenario driven workshop format.

A full proceedings report and list of action items can be found at www.cblhc.com

Cross Border Livestock Health Conference

Top left: Governor John Kitzhaber of Oregon welcomes PNWER delegates to Portland

Top right: Martha Wyrsch, President, Vestas Americas (left) and Kimberly Harris, CEO, Puget Sound Energy (left) headlined the

Energy CEO’s Roundtable Luncheon.

Bottom right: Senior Associate Deputy Minister Simon Kennedy, Industry Canada, and lead for the “Beyond the Border Action Plan”

2011 marked the 3rd University Presidents’ Roundtable. Hosted at the PNWER Annual Summit in Portland, Oregon, this cross-border regional forum for University Presidents is the only one of its kind in North America. This year, 19 Presidents attended to discuss issues that impact both sides of the border, and meet state, provincial, and territorial government and business leaders. Presidents explored opportunities for cross-border research, exchange, study and collaboration. They promoted the role universities play in economic development and regional growth, and explored opportunities for participation and partnership with PNWER and its working groups.

Major initiatives that resulted from the Roundtable included identifying academic liaisons from the Universities and ensuring the forum continues to have face to face meetings to collaborate both with each other and with legislative leaders. Special thanks to President Wim Wiewel of Portland State University for his leadership on the Roundtable and hospitality to the visiting Presidents and PNWER Delegation. The next Roundtable will be held at the 2012 Annual Summit in Saskatoon, SK.

University Presidents’ Roundtable

Over 75 participants gathered for the first PNWER Invasive Species Conference. The day long event focused on regional invasive species threats and the economic impact of these threats, as well as best practices in regional collaboration to prevent invasives. From the Action Items came the formation of the PNWER Invasive Species Council, which includes members of Invasive Species councils and other organizations from throughout the region. The PNWER Invasive Species Council will work to complete the conference Action Items, share best practices, and present unified messaging regarding invasive species.

Invasive Species Conference

11 •

PNWER president Rep. Mike Schaufler, Oregon, and Premier Brad Wall, Saskatchewan, flanked by the RCMP

Rob Merrifield, MP, and Darrell Bryan, CEO, Victoria Clipper, co-chair the Border Session

Amy Ferriter, Idaho Invasive Species Council, solicits Invasive Species Conference participants for guidelines for the PNWER Invasive Species Council

ConferencesWinter Meeting | Victoria, British Columbia

The 2011 Economic Leadership Forum, held November 17-19 in Victoria, British Columbia gave participants from the region the opportunity to further explore Action Items identified at the 2011 Annual Summit. Over 100 participants from throughout the region met at the Fairmont Empress for the Forum.

Kicking off the meeting were two joint sessions with the Legislative Leadership Academy: one regarding natural gas vehicle fleets, the other public-private partnerships for infrastructure finance. The Natural Gas Session included a showcase of natural gas vehicles, including garbage trucks and school buses, hosted by FortisBC in front of the Parliament Building.

The Economic Leadership Forum sessions focused on Telecom, Innovation, the Energy Storage Summit, and Tourism. It was also the home of the second Legislative Transportation Institute, a program supported by the Cascadia Institute that kicked off its first session at the 2011 Annual Summit in Portland. The Transportation

Institute teaches legislators about transportation systems and policy to promote better informed transportation legislation.

Keynote Speakers included John Les, MLA, British Columbia; Ian Brodie, former Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Harper, and Strategic Advisor to the Inter-American Development Bank; and Jon Allen, Assistant Deputy Minister, Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade.

Our highly successful conference was topped off by a closing reception hosted by His Honour, the Honourable Steven L. Point, OBC, Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia at Government House.

For more information, including presentations, please visit www.pnwer.org/2011WinterMeeting

ECONOMIC LEADERSHIP FORUM

12 • PNWER

Consul General Denis Stevens, Canadian Consul General to the Pacific Northwest, Rep. Jeff Morris, Washington State House of Representatives, and Pam Folsom, Folsom Public Relations, chat during the Natural Gas Vehicles Showcase, November 17th in Victoria, BC

The PNWER Innovation working group held a session with stakeholders on advancing collaboration in the region. This session was a continuation and update of the working groups current efforts. Since the PNWER Annual Summit in Portland, the IWG has been in the process of or has completed all of its action items. The core working group highlighted the efforts underway in the 3 subcommittees of the working group. For more information about the session please contact, Steve Myers at steve@pnwer.org

The telecommunications working group held a sidebar meeting regarding the development of an Information Technology Institute for legislators and other elected officials. The Institute would be developed with input from legislators, private sector organizations, academic institutions and non-profit organizations. The overall goal of the Institute is to provide elected officials with industry wide knowledge in a format that is easy to understand and use in their day to day work. For more information about the session please contact, Steve Myers at steve@pnwer.org

PNWER’s Energy Storage Coalition (ESC) is committed to expanding the role of energy storage in a more affordable, clean, and reliable electric power system. PNWER’S ESC members are a public-private partnership representing the region’s diverse mix of energy storage technology manufacturers, renewable energy manufacturers/developers, utilities and policy makers.

The Energy Storage Summit opened with information on current energy storage projects underway in the region, and addressed the structure and goals of the Energy Storage Coalition. More information can be found at www.pnwer.org/esc

Energy Storage Summit

Telecom

Innovation

13 •

The Honourable Steven L. Point, OBC, Lieutenant Governor, British Columbia, flanked by Rep. Mike Cuffe, Montana, and Rep. George Eskridge, Idaho, on the left, and John Les, MLA, British Columbia and Rep. Mike Schaufler, Oregon, on the right

PNWER’s Innovation Session at the Empress Hotel in Victoria

Mr. Ian Brodie, Former Chief of Staff to Prime Minister Harper, and Strategic Advisor for the Inter-American Development Bank, addresses PNWER delegates

The 3rd PNWER Legislative Leadership Academy was held November 16-17, 2011 in Victoria, British Columbia concurrent with the Economic Leadership Forum. Leaders throughout the region participated in two days of seminars on the US and Canadian political systems, involving interactive workshops, and in-depth discussions.

The Legislative Academy participants were invited to attend Question Period, sitting on the floor with the Members of the BC Legislative Assembly. The Academy provides an excellent opportunity for leaders in the Canadian provinces to understand how decisions are made at the US federal and state levels, and conversely, allows an opportunity to US state-level legislative and executive branch leaders to better understand how decisions are made at the Canadian federal and provincial levels.

Instruction for the institute was provided by Barry Penner, MLA, British Columbia; Rep. Jeff Morris, Washington; Dr. Mike Treleaven, Gonzaga University; Dr. James Lawson, University of Victoria; Rep. George Eskridge, Idaho; Sen. Cliff Larsen, Montana; Rep. Mike Schaufler, Oregon; US Consul General Anne Callaghan; Sen. Lesil McGuire, Alaska; Canadian Consul General Denis Stevens; and former PNWER Vice-President Mike Chisholm.

Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia, Hon. Bill Barisoff, chaired the “View from the Speaker’s Chair” session featuring Speaker Lawerence Denney, Idaho; Senate President Gary Stevens, Alaska; Senate President Jim Peterson, Montana; and Hon. Don Toth, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly of Saskatchewan.

The academy concluded with two joint sessions with the Economic Leadership Forum: “Building a Policy Framework to lead North America in Developing a Network of Natural Gas Infrastructure to Fuel our own Transportation Fleets” and “How Do We Fund Infrastructure? Public-Private Partnerships and Infrastructure Financing.”

For more information on the 2011 Legislative Leadership Academy, including the meeting agenda and participant manual, please visit www.pnwer.org/legacademy

LEGISLATIVE LEADERSHIP ACADEMY

ConferencesWinter Meeting | Victoria, British Columbia

14 • PNWER

The 2011 Legislative Leadership Academy participants in the BC Legislative Assembly with Speaker Bill Barisoff

Legislators dialogue in the specific differences between our state and provincial political systems

The 2011 Action Items were first established at the 2011 Annual Summit in Portland, Oregon. Additions were made at the 2011 Economic Leadership Forum in Victoria, British Columbia. PNWER delivers results on regional issues through action plans developed by twenty working groups corresponding to the region’s key priorities. Each working group is co-chaired by an industry leader and legislator. These action items serve as PNWER’s Work Plan for the year.

2011 Action Items

• PNWER should continue to act as a ‘Provocateur’ and ask questions about why border processes that do not increase security are done at the border, keeping agents from spending time on high-risk people and goods.

• Push for partnerships for security, and innovative ways to improve safety and security which reduce transaction costs

• PNWER will offer to host a meeting in the region to announce the Beyond the Border Action plan this fall

• Encourage stakeholders, jurisdictions, partners to collect data on value of increase of border efficiency, and importance of cross border trade to the region

• Border Solutions Council: prioritized and accepted report from Border Solutions Council, and endorsed subcommittees to finalize pilot projects - 1) Single Window, 2) E-Certification for livestock, 3) Tourism pilot on expediting visas between Canada and US

Arctic Caucus

Hon. Bob McLeodNorthwest Territories

Sen. Lesil McGuireAlaska

The Arctic Caucus provides a forum within PNWER for the Arctic jurisdictions of Alaska, Yukon, and Northwest Territories to share information, discuss issues of mutual concern, and identify areas for collaboration. This may include working with other jurisdictions and providing Arctic-relevant input to PNWER working groups.

PNWER recognizes that legitimate cross-border mobility is vital to the economic well-being and safety of US and Canadian citizens.

Border Issues

Len MitzelMLAAlberta

Dr. Don AlperDirectorBorder Policy Research Institute

Conferences2011 Working Groups and Action Items

2011 Action Items• Develop joint map-based resource

inventory, infrastructure, demographics, and opportunity map of the Arctic Caucus Region (Alaska, Yukon, and NWT).

• Facilitate the development of a pilot AIS station in the Western Canadian Arctic.

• Facilitate the development of a public common operating picture for Vessel Tracking and Search and Rescue, along with operational capabilities in the US-Canadian Arctic. Encourage cooperation and coordination protocols to share information across the border and

between jurisdictions.• Facilitate Arctic state/territorial

collaboration for information sharing and coordination on oil spill planning, preparedness and response in the Arctic.

• Develop a PNWER Arctic Caucus strategy to strengthen the voice of our arctic communities for the 2013-2017 Canada and US Chairmanships of the Arctic Council, in addition to other organizations the group recognizes. This should be a multifaceted strategy engaging the entire PNWER region.

15 •

Cross-Border Livestock Health

Don HansenOregon Department of Agriculture

Greg DouglasMinister of AgricultureSaskatchewan

Provides opportunities for state and provincial veterinarians; government; animal health experts; and industry to enhance relationships and build networks between state and provincial jurisdictions, exchange information on animal health issues and concerns, develop a common understanding of disease policies, and exchange information on emergency response to emerging and foreign animal disease.

2011 Action Items

• Work with stakeholders to prepare in advance and build a common understanding of the tools (vaccination) and strategies that can be used to respond to a Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak in both Canada and the US.

• Work to support science and risk-based approaches to allow the safe resumption of bilateral and international trade after the eradication of a FAD. Develop and deliver common messaging to encourage proactive adoption of regulations that require science-based recognition of disease-free status of countries and zones, consistent with OIE guidelines. Delivery messaging as part of PNWER engagement in WSHDC and Ottawa.

Identify other key venues to deliver messaging

• Explore potential public-private funding sources, identify fiscal benefits to governments and encourage CFIA and USDA to design their IT systems in such a way that they are compatible. Recognizing that paperwork requirements impose significant costs on cattle buyers and sellers on both sides of the border, while subjecting animals to unnecessarily stressful welfare conditions, we urge both countries to move towards electronic certification for cattle on a much more aggressive timeline than is currently being considered.

Disaster Resilience

Ken MurphyRegional AdministratorFEMA Region X

Mary RobinsonPuget Sound Energy

This working group helps direct the activities of the PNWER Center for Regional Disaster Resilience (CRDR).

2011 Action Items

• PNWER will assist in facilitating the distribution/sharing of state and local energy assurance plans between all states/provinces in the PNWER region.

• Set up a periodic conference call (2-3 times per year) to continue to share information and best practices across the region on activities related to energy sector disaster planning and coordination.

Conferences2011 Working Groups and Action Items

16 • PNWER

The Energy I Working Group brings together key industry leaders from both countries to examine supply and demand issues, transmission, permitting across multiple jurisdictions, and other issues that must be addressed to secure efficient, reliable, low cost and environmentally safe energy supply for our future.

Energy

Hon. Ron Liepert Minister of Energy, Alberta

Ken JohnsonDirector, State Policy and Government AffairsPuget Sound Energy

2011 Action Items

• PNWER recognizes that obesity is a growing and significant issue in the PNWER region effecting the health of residents and threatening future prosperity. PNWER health care working group with the support of the executive will urge partner jurisdictions on a priority basis to develop strategies to address prevention, focusing on school

programs and policies, food industry, urban planning and transportation and ensure affordable access to effective treatment. An inventory of current initiatives in PNWER jurisdictions will be developed and shared with PNWER members in addition to relevant evidence being posted on working group website

The Health Care Working Group addresses cross border health issues, health and business issues, health technologies, and other issues related to the challenges to health care in the region.

Health Care

John SprouleSr. Policy DirectorInst. of Health Economics

2011 Action Items

• Adoption of Draft Purpose Statement• Identify Work Group Members to

lead and following up on the Purpose Statement

• Develop PNWER Virtual Community

• Create Official Innovation Working Group members/ governance structure

• Review Procedures for Selecting Key Deliverables

• Develop Process/Strategy & Confirm Supporting Resources

The competitive landscape of the global economy, coupled with worldwide environmental challenges, is creating unprecedented demand for scientific discovery and application. The Pacific Northwest region must channel the strengths of its many separate resources into a collaborative, comprehensive effort that maximizes the economic benefits of regional innovation.

Innovation

Dave ZepponiPresident, NWFood Processors Association

Sen. Jim KastamaWashington

17 •

Invasive Species

Rep. Eric AndersonIdaho

Dr. Mark SytsmaPortland State University

2011 Action Items

• Assist PNWER in acting as a formalized regional structure for communication and developing messages to increase message consistency and effectiveness

• Form a PNWER Invasive Species Council Steering Committee with representation from all PNWER Jurisdictions for implementing action plan for working group; including chairs for implementing the Action Plan

• Engage groups who have not been involved in PNWER invasive Species, including organizations such as the Pacific

Coast Collaborative and the Associated Tribes of Northwest Indians; Develop a communications plan

• Produce white paper describing economic importance of invasive species in the PNWER region

• Continue the PNWER Invasive Species Conference model for the future of the working group

• Develop educational piece for regional legislators to educate about the economic and societal impacts of invasive species

• Integrate activities of the invasive species working group into other PNWER working groups and activities

The Invasive Species Working Group addresses the regional economic and environmental impact of invasive species and promotes regional collaboration and sharing of best practices.

Natural Resource Development: Mining

Hon. Bob McLeodNorthwest Territories

Pam SchwannExecutive DirectorSaskatchewan Mining Association

2011 Action Items

• Prepare resource map illustrating producing mines and advanced mineral projects within the PNWER jurisdiction along with transportation and key infrastructure (rail, air, road, port, electrical) corridors (existing & proposed)

• Share information on the collaboration on NW power line with BC and Alaska.

• Develop overview of capital investment and employment of exploration & mining in the PNWER region.

• Labor market workforce - PNWER region; requirements for labor market workforce; who is doing the training and where? Develop proposal for study and refer to University Presidents

• Share information about devolution on the PNWER Website

The Natural Resource Development: Mining Working Group highlights regional best practices in natural resource development and mining.

Natural Gas Vehicles

Barry PennerMLABritish Columbia

Dan KirschnerNorthwest Gas Association

2011 Action Items

• Jurisdictions should encourage fleet vehicle use of natural gas

• Examine regulated utility legislation pertaining to natural gas providers, to allow them to advance funds to build refuelling infrastructure for particular commercial customers and then build the repayment cost into their rates charged

to those commercial customers.• PNWER jurisdictions should create

financial incentives for NGV adoption. Particularly aimed fleets strategically poised to lead market transformation

• Governments need to provide clarity to regulators about what role utilities should play in leading the adoption of NGVs

• PNWER should consider the creation of a permanent NGV working group

The Natural Gas Vehicles Working Group works to increase regional collaboration regarding natural gas vehicle infrastructure

Conferences2011 Working Groups and Action Items

18 • PNWER

The Ocean Energy Working Group highlights the efforts to harness the ocean’s power for our energy needs, and ways that we can work as a region to enhance the viability of using ocean energy in the near future.

Rep. Deb BooneOregon

Capt. Rick Williams SAIC Maritime Technology

Ocean Energy

2011 Action Items

• Prepare a PNWER letter (copied to the NW delegation) to Secretary of the Interior requesting cooperation and expediency in permitting and siting of transmission lines on Federal Lands – with note that this supports the Administration’s energy policy

• Prepare a draft resolution for State legislatures instructing their respective NW Congressional delegation members to request that the Secretary of the Interior cooperate and promote efficiency in permitting and siting of transmission lines on Federal lands

• PNWER letter to states, agencies and legislature to establish permitting timelines with a bias for action in the permitting process

• Provide recommendations to Bonneville Power Administration to:

• Concentrate on near term successful transmission upgrades - south to CA, north to BC (strengthen northern interties), focusing on those projects which already have existing right of ways, such as the Juan de Fuca Cable and others;

• Encourage private investment, and trans-border investment for transmission;

• Implement programs that can “soak up” spring night time surplus – create incentives to transfer load;

• Allow a “one time” off-ramp for previous wind interconnection application permits - allow developers to get security deposit back, create more transmission capacity, and clear queue for future development.

• PNWER to compose letters to owners of linear Rights of Way (eg utilities, pipeline companies, railroads, and agencies controlling highways) requesting cooperation with such utilities and independent transmission developers that are seeking Rights of Way for new transmission lines.

• PNWER to seek funding to commission a ”state-of-the-art” review of commercially available transmission technologies to determine their applicability to region, with regard to enhancement of energy security, and compatibility with digitalization of operation and control of the grid (“Smart Grid” compatibility).

• Submit a study request to Western Energy Coordination Council (WECC) to determine the environmental and economic cost if foundational transmission projects are not permitted in time or not completed

The Renewable Energy Working Group identifies emerging and renewable energy technologies and addresses related policy issue

Renewable Energy

Rep. George EskridgeIdaho

Paul MansonPresidentSea Breeze Power Corp.

19 •

2011 Action Items

• PNWER renew its call for regional jurisdictions and their federal governments to share experiences and expedite implementation of feed in tariffs to create market driven commercial demonstration projects that can generate ocean energy into the power grid.

• PNWER to suggest to the Pacific Coast

Collaborative and the Canada/US Clean Energy Dialogue to provide a mechanism to coordinate and accelerate development of emerging ocean energy solutions.

• Working group will work with regional utilities to identify both early stage development project sites and long-term opportunities for ocean energy solutions.

2011 Action Items

• For the 2012 Summit, hold one or more sessions regarding the following topics, to be determined by the co-chairs:

• Eco-Districts

• Cumulative Effects Management• Smart-Grid• Eco-Industrial planning

Identifies best practices for environmental sustainability to improve the quality of life in the region as well as foster sustainable economic development.

Sustainable Development

Hon. Rob RennerAlberta

Steve ClemVP Preconstruction, Skanska

Trade and Economic Development

Bernie Magnan Chief Economist, Vancouver Board of Trade

Lt. Governor Brad OwenWashington

2011 Action Items

• Provide prioritized recommendations (including regional pilots) to the Regulatory Cooperation Council on improving cross border trade and mobility.

• Recognizing the New West Partnership as a template, explore potential

opportunities for marketing jobs and investment opportunities across the PNWER states and provinces.

• Host a roundtable discussion with University Presidents on priority issues on trade and economic development

Many of the states and provinces are each other’s largest trading partners. In light of recent events, PNWER is working with regional groups to determine the best practices for economic recovery and examining the impact of the Economic Stimulus on this region.

Transportation

Hon. Jim Reiter Minister of Highways and Infrastructure Saskatchewan

Bruce AgnewPolicy DirectorCascadia

2011 Action Items

• PNWER supports the continued operation of the 2nd daily Amtrak train beyond the end of the current pilot date of October 31, 2011, and permanently waive border fees as previously proposed by the Canada Border Services Agency for the 2nd daily Amtrak train.

• Reaffirm PNWER support for a permanent waiver of the proposed cost recovery fee for the second Amtrak train, and work with the Canadian Consulate, British Columbia and Washington in partnership

to secure• Secure additional resources to develop

a legislative primer which will include a matrix on investments be made in Western Canada and Northwest states to handle projected increases of exports in shipment of coal, potash, grain and wood. This would help guide decision-makers in their investment in infrastructure with respect to rail and port facilities. This would be prepared in time for the Saskatchewan meeting in 2012.

Focuses on the infrastructure of our major corridors and gateways, with a special interest on border infrastructure. Brings together public and private, state/provincial/territorial and federal officials to address key issues of transportation management, including new technologies to address the increased flow of goods and services through our ports and across our borders.

Conferences2011 Working Groups and Action Items

20 • PNWER

2011 Action Items

• Adoption of Draft Purpose Statement• Identify work group members to lead and

following up on the Purpose Statement• Develop PNWER Virtual Community• Create an official tourism Working Group

members/ governance structure• Review procedures for selecting key

deliverables• Develop process/strategy & confirm

supporting resources

Tourism is one of the largest pieces of the region’s economy. Through the Tourism Working Group, participants can share best practices and challenges, while learning of innovative new ways to bring tourists into the region through marketing, policy making, and more.

Tourism

Karen BallardDirector of TourismIdaho

Rob GialloretoPresidentTourism Victoria

2011 Action Items

• Follow-up with Parminder Jassal, Program Officer at the Gates Foundation, on future involvement with the Workforce Working Group - Fulfills 2007 Understanding regional best practices action item

• Investigate the framework in which labour market and industry supply demand data is collected and utilized in Canada and determine a framework

in which it can be replicated in U.S. Jurisdictions and explore pilot project in two states - Washington and Alaska

• PNWER Jurisdictions should advocate to Federal Delegation for improved mechanisms and processes for facilitating temporary worker mobility between the U.S. and Canada - Coordinate with Border Working group

Water Policy

Rep. John StevensonIdaho

David HillProgram ManagerAB Water Research Inst.

Rep. Anna FaircloughAlaska

Colin SmithAPEGBC

2011 Action Items

• PNWER Recommends that further efforts be made to include legislative members in the Treaty process in order to keep them informed and engaged.

• PNWER should assist in providing additional opportunities where appropriate for legislative members,

Treaty representatives and regional stakeholders to come together and be informed and engage in dialogue on priority regional issues

• Provide an update to water policy working group at the 2012 Summit on results of fall workshops on the Bow River

The Water Policy Working Group is beginning a dialogue to address important regional water issues such as the renegotiation of the Columbia River Treaty.

The Workforce/Northern Development Working Group is identifying the barriers to addressing labor shortages, the key stakeholders, and specific actions that can be implemented to alleviate these shortages.

Workforce

21 •

ProgramsArctic Caucus Forum

The Arctic Caucus provides a forum within the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER) for the Arctic jurisdictions of Alaska, Yukon, and Northwest Territories to share information, discuss issues of mutual concern, and identify areas for collaboration. This may include working with other jurisdictions and providing Arctic-relevant input to PNWER working groups.

The 2011 Arctic Caucus Forum was held August 17-19. This Forum was the second meeting north of the 60 parallel: the first, in Barrow, Alaska was held in December 2010. The 2011 meeting focused on continuing the development of the Arctic Caucus, further identifying common projects and sharing information on developments in a wide range of topic areas, including:• Arctic Infrastructure for Development: Cables,

Wires, and Towers• The Arctic Council• Search and Rescue• Update on Alaska’s Northern Waters Task

force• Oil Spill Response

• Mining• Financing for Infrastructure Development

The first day of the Arctic Caucus was dedicated to sharing projects, issues and developments across the North. This included a number of presentations on a variety of subjects. Day two focused on the development of Action Items, to be addressed before our next Arctic Caucus Forum, which is being planned for Whitehorse, Yukon in the spring of 2012.

Participants were given the option of touring the Giant Mine Remediation Site, or learning more about the City of Yellowknife’s Geothermal projects. Participants who happened to be up at two in the morning also caught a glimpse of the Northern Lights.

For more information including proceedings and presentations, please visit www.pnwer.org/ArcticCaucus

ARCTIC ISSUES: GLOBAL GROWTH

22 • PNWER

PNWER President Rep. Mike Schaufler, Oregon, discusses Arctic Issues with Hon. Bob McLeod, Northwest Territories

Arctic Caucus delegates were treated to a tour of the Northwest Territories Legislative Assembly

ProgramsCapital Visits

PNWER Board members from throughout the region participated in the annual Capital visits in early 2011- visiting Helena, Montana; Olympia, Washington; Boise, Idaho; and Salem, Oregon. The Capital visits provide an opportunity to have informative meetings with various elected officials from each state and province. These visits are the most effective means to brief the leadership on the initiatives that PNWER is working on, and to hear what issues are most relevant to each region.

The PNWER Board members had important discussions with Governor Brian Schweitzer (MT), Lt. Gov. Brad Owen (WA), Senate President Peter Courtney (OR) and met with the PNWER delegates in each state. PNWER

also had the opportunity to address various committees including Energy, Economic Development, Trade & Innovation committees in each state. The Capital visits are also a useful time to meet with government agencies, including the Department of Commerce, the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Transportation.

The Salem visit was a great opportunity to promote the 2011 Summit in Portland. The Board members held a roundtable discussion with local private sector members to help engage the local business community with the work that PNWER does. Additionally, they used this time to meet with the Portland Business Journal to gain visibility within the local media.

The PNWER Board traveled to Ottawa in November to meet with Federal officials. While in Ottawa, they were invited to meet with Prime Minister Stephen Harper. In addition to this wonderful opportunity, the PNWER board had a series of meetings with federal ministers over two days. The delegation also met with US Ambassador David Jacobson, Hon. Lynne Yelich, Minister of Western Economic Diversification; Hon. Steven Fletcher, Minister of Transportation; Hon. Ed Fast, Minister of International Trade; Hon. Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety Canada; Hon. James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage; Hon. John Duncan, Minister of Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, and various other departments.

Much of the discussions focused on the release of the Regulatory Cooperation Council Action Plan and the Beyond the Border Action Plan, and how PNWER can be involved in implementing these action items.

Ottawa

23 •

PNWER DELEGATION CAPITAL VISITS

PNWER officers meet with Prime Minister Stephen Harper in his office in Ottawa

PNWER President Rep. Mike Schaufler, Oregon, introduces Governor John Kitzhaber (left) to the PNWER delegation during the capital visit in Salem, Oregon

PNWER launched the Center for Regional Disaster Resilience in November 2001 with the goal of improving the ability of the Pacific Northwest to protect its critical infrastructures to withstand and recover from all-hazards disasters. The CRDR works with key public and private stakeholders to create and implement workable solutions to local and regional infrastructure vulnerability and other related needs by raising awareness of infrastructure interdependencies, providing training and education, and developing tools, technologies, and approaches that build on existing capabilities and can be utilized across the United States, Canada, and the international community.

This year the CRDR focused on flood preparedness and response, disaster communications, and resilience in

the financial sector, as well as continuing a number of projects that we have supported over the years.

PNWER launched a new updated Center for Regional Disaster Resilience website in September. The new site can be found at www.regionalresilience.org

The site will allow users to better navigate through the many ongoing and past activities PNWER has been involved in over the years.

In June, the national Dam Sector Exercise Series (DSES) wrapped up a year long project in the Green River Valley in Washington State to compliment the tremendous amount of work done by the cities, county and state to prepare for a potential flood. US Army Corps of Engineers and DHS Dams Sector Division worked with local and state stakeholders and PNWER to analyze the potential impacts of a major flood on the regional economy and critical infrastructures. A baseline assessment and consequence assessment were

conducted with a focus on critical infrastructure dependencies and interdependencies. Based on these findings a regional resilience strategy was developed with input from stakeholders to address the issues identified throughout the process.

Since the final strategy was developed, the US Army Corps of Engineers announced success in repairing the Howard Hanson dam, thus reducing the flood threat. Stakeholders welcome this good news. A tremendous amount of work and resources were put into

the effort to prepare for a potential flood over the past two+ years. It was a great example of how a threat can bring many disparate players together to work with one another and develop regional plans. PNWER thanks all the local stakeholders, regional critical infrastructures, as well as USACE and DHS and our elected officials for working together to build a more disaster resilient region.

For more information on DSES10, please seewww.dses10.org

Regional Initiative on Improving Preparedness and Resilience for a Major Flood

ProgramsCenter for Regional Disaster Resilience

24 • PNWER

Regional stakeholders gather for the final session of the 2010 Dam Sector Exercise Series.

Hillman Mitchell, Director, King County Office of Emergency Management, addresses conference participants

Critical Infrastructure Protection (CIP) Task Force

PNWER conducts quarterly conference calls and periodic meetings with CIP managers from the PNWER Member jurisdiction states and provinces. The Task Force recently discussed the need for a border commerce resumption strategy. This strategy would be used during an event or disaster that would close the border. A regional strategy to get critical supplies, personnel and services quickly across the border will be critical after a disaster.

U.S. DHS Regional Consortium Coordination Council

In recognition that the PNWER region has become a model for public-private partnership for disaster resilience and infrastructure security, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Infrastructure Protection, invited PNWER to be on the Executive Committee of this Council and to contribute to its development. The goal of the Council is to bridge the cross-sector, cross-jurisdiction, cross-function infrastructure protection concerns and explore how to build resilience into infrastructures, communities, regions, and states.www.r-ccc.org

Other PNWER Homeland Security and Disaster Resilience Committee Involvement

PNWER also serves on several other committees, including the Washington State Infrastructure Protection Subcommittee (IPSC), the Washington State Homeland Security Region 6 (King County) Critical Infrastructure Committee, the Regional Catastrophic Preparedness Program, the FEMA Region X Regional Advisory Council, the Puget Sound Partnership for Regional Infrastructure Security, the 2010 Olympic Security Task Force, the Washington Statewide Preparedness for Philanthropic Sector, and the Border Health Alliance. More information can be found at www.regionalresilience.org

Ongoing CRDR Programs

In June, PNWER facilitated an Information Sharing Workshop in Seattle in cooperation with public, private and non-profit sectors. Over 90 public and private sector participants attended the workshop which explored two-way communication and information sharing and provided public and private sector and Non-Governmental Organization stakeholders with examples of best practices on information sharing. The goal of the Workshop was to provide attendees with knowledge of the capabilities available in the region for information sharing and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. The Workshop was designed to provide an open discussion session for members of the private, public and non-profit sectors. Several recommendations surfaced from the discussion.

Recommendations:• Push the benefit of sharing information across all sectors and partner

with public sector and outside agencies, organizations and institutions. Protocols for requesting and sharing information should be developed before a disaster

• Adopt plans and procedures to utilize social media in a disaster. Organizations should educate themselves on the use of social media and how it may fit into their organizations communications plan

• Develop plans and procedures to use Ham radio volunteers and systems during a disaster. Most jurisdictions have these plans in place but it was recommended that organizations identify staff members and offer opportunities for them to volunteer in a disaster.

Communications and Information Sharing Best Practices Workshop

25 •

FEMA Region X Administrator Ken Murphy addresses PNWER delegates at the 2011 Annual Summit The Disaster Resilience Working Group focused on energy assurance.

ProgramsLEGISLATIVE ENERGY HORIZON INSTITUTE

The 2nd Legislative Energy Horizon Institute (LEHI) commenced during the Annual Summit in Portland, Oregon. Forty-Seven legislators gathered for education training on energy delivery and infrastructure.

High turnover in state legislative bodies decreases the institutional knowledge concerning complex energy issues in state/province/territorial legislatures. Legislators who develop state energy policy often lack a comprehensive understanding of how energy infrastructure operates. The complex issues associated with electricity, natural gas, and petroleum infrastructure; regulation governing this infrastructure; and interdependencies are just some of the ares that

legislators must understand to make responsible and informed policy decisions.

The 2011-2012 Institute class has completed 50% of the required 60 hours of classroom time to get their certificate in Energy Policy from the University of Idaho, PNWER, National Conference of State Legislature and the US Department of Energy.

For more information, visit www.pnwer.org/EnergyHorizon

AlAbAmA

Rep. Mac Buttram

AlAskA

Sen. Cathy GiesselSen. John CoghillRep. Eric FeigeRep. Neal Foster

AlbertA

MLA Cal DallasMLA Arno Doerksen

ArizonA

Rep. Frank Pratt

ArkAnsAs

Rep. Jonathan Barnett

ColorAdo

Sen. Gail Schwartz

GeorGiA

Rep. Don Parsons

HAwAii

Sen. Mike GabbardRep. Denny Coffman

idAHo

Sen. Michelle StennettRep. Jeff ThompsonSen. Russ Fulcher

kentuCky

Sen. Brandon Smith

mAssACHusetts

Rep. Thomas Golden, Jr.

minnesotA

Rep. Kurt DaudtSen. Julie Rosen

miCHiGAn

Sen. John Proos

montAnA

Sen. Chas VincentSen. Kendall Van Dyk

new york

Asm. Kevin Cahill

oHio

Rep. Andy ThompsonSen. David Daniels

oklAHomA

Rep. Mike Jackson

oreGon

Rep. Jules BaileyRep. Jefferson SmithSen. Jackie DingfelderRep. John Huffman

nebrAskA

Sen. Chris Langemeier

new Jersey

Asm. Upendra Chivukula

nortHwest territories

MLA David Ramsay

QuebeC

MLA Sylvain Gaudreault

sAskAtCHewAn

MLA Doreen EaglesMLA Gord WyantMLA Fred BradshawMLA Dan D’Autremont

utAH

Rep. Stephen HandySen. Kevin Van Tassell

wAsHinGton

Sen. Linda Evans ParletteRep. Andy BilligRep. David FrocktRep. Terry NealyRep. Cathy DahlquistRep. Dave UpthegroveSen. Marlyn Chase

2011-2012 LEHI Class Roster

LEHI

26 • PNWER

Fourty-Seven legislators met for the first session of the new Legislative Energy Horizon Institute class throughout the PNWER 2011 Annual Summit

BORDER PROJECTS

ProgramsBorder Projects

On February 4, 2011 Prime Minister Harper met with President Obama and signed a declaration entitled, "Beyond the Border: A Shared Vision for Perimeter Security and Economic Cooperation". They also announced the formation of a "Regulatory Cooperation Council" composed of senior regulatory, trade, and foreign affairs officials from both governments.

In a meeting in Washington, DC on March 3, 2011 PNWER Officers met with US Department of Commerce Officials who asked us to work with our bi-national, regional stakeholders to solicit input into this process. On the same day, the Department issued a Federal Register request with a 30 day window for public comments on regulations that could be amended to improve the competitiveness between our two nations. PNWER collected over 60 comments and recommendations and forwarded these to both Ottawa and Washington DC for consideration in the development of the Beyond the Border Implementation Plan.

The comments PNWER submitted prompted the US Ambassador to Canada, David Jacobson to come to Seattle in May. Ambassador Jacobson met with PNWER leadership and stakeholders during a listening session to get further input on the development of the action plan. In July, during the PNWER Summit in Portland, Francisco Sanchez, Under Secretary for International Trade, US Department of Commerce, and Simon Kennedy, Senior Associate Deputy Minister, Industry Canada shared the stage to brief PNWER delegates on the progress of the development of the action plan. Likewise the Canadian Ambassador to the US, Gary Doer also gave a keynote speech at the Summit and lauded PNWER for the useful comments and recommendations provided throughout the process.

In September PNWER hosted a roundtable in Vancouver, BC with Sue Saarnio, Economic Counselor, US Embassy, Ottawa to further discuss regulatory issues impacting US Canada trade. This meeting helped continue to reach out to stakeholders on both sides of the border.

In November, at the PNWER Winter Meeting, Jon Allen, Assistant Deputy Minister for the Americas,

Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade met with PNWER leadership and outlined what the action plan would look like.

Finally, in December, 2011, PNWER leadership went to Ottawa and had several meetings with federal Ministers as well as the Prime Minister and US Ambassador on the pending release of the action plan. The Action Plan was finally released on December 7th in Washington DC by President Obama and Prime Minister Harper. PNWER sent detailed feedback to DHS regarding the Beyond the Border Action Plan and will attend meetings in Washington DC in late January to provide input on the Regulatory Cooperation Council Action Plan.

27 •

US Ambassador to Canada David Jacobson and Rep. George Eskridge, Idaho, chat during a meeting with PNWER delegates

Canadian Ambassador to the US Gary Doer addresses delegates at the PNWER 2011 Annual Summit

Finances2011 Finances

The Pacific Northwest Economic Region Foundation operates as a 501c6 non-profit organization. PNWER’s income is derived from statutory dues from member jurisdictions as well as federal, state/province grants and contracts and private sector contributions. Private sector contributions vary by company and amount and help fund projects, meetings and conferences.

During the fiscal year ending September 30, 2011, PNWER’s total income was $1,256,264 and total expenses were $1,140,660.

Private Sector

Partnerships 33%

State/Province/Territory

Dues 28%

Gov. Grants and

Contract 24%

Meeting Revenue

15%

FY11 Revenue

Operating Expenses

48% Program Expenses

29%

Meeting Expense

23%

FY11 Functional Expenses

FY11 Revenue

Private Sector Partnerships $ 416,420.00

State/Province/Territory Dues $ 346,000.00

Gov. Grants and Contract $ 306,950.00

Meeting Revenue $ 186,894.00

Total $ 1,256,264.00

FY11 Functional Expenses

Operating Expenses $ 545,544.00

Program Expenses $ 332,678.00

Meeting Expense $ 262,438.00

Total $ 1,140,660.00

28 • PNWER

FinancesSupporters

Legislative Energy Horizon Institute

Northwest Warning, Alert and Response Network, WA Fusion Center, Seattle Police Department

US Department of Energy, Office of Electricity Delivery and Energy Reliability

King County Office of Emergency Management

Washington State Fusion Center

Canadian Consulate General - Seattle

US Consulate General - Vancouver

The Pacific NorthWest Economic Region wishes to recognize the following organizations for their financial support over the past year:

2011 sponsors

Adventure DestinationsAllerganAltaLinkAstellasBPBank of AmericaBNSF RailwayCascadiaCanadian NaturalCapital Power CorporationCanpotexCenovus EnergyCentury LinkCH2MHillClipper VacationsCNComcastCourse ParkCropLife CanadaDevonEnbridge

EncanaFasken MartineauFortis BCHDRIberdrola RenewablesInnovation PlaceJohnson & JohnsonMarathonMicrosoftNelson MullinsNyhusNorthwest Natural GasNorthwesTelPacific SeafoodPortland General ElectricPort of PortlandPortland State UniversityPuget Sound EnergyPhRMARougeSafeway

SkanskaSolarWorldSpectra EnergyStoel RivesTransAltaTransCanadaUnion PacificVestasVerizonWestportWilliams

other memBers

American Chamber of Commerce in Canada - Western ChapterG Seven Generations Ltd. Innovation Expansion Corporation (INOVXCO)Mackenzie Valley Aboriginal Pipeline GroupStantec ConsultingUrban Systems Ltd

AlaskaAlbertaBritish ColumbiaIdahoMontana

Northwest TerritoriesOregonSaskatchewanWashingtonYukon

Statuatory Members

Private Sector Members

Project Partners

29 •

30 • PNWER

22nd Annual Summit

Save the Date! July 15-19 2012 | Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Join us for an exciting four days in the sunniest city in Canada. Nestled on the banks of the South Saskatchewan River, Saskatoon is home to seven bridges, just as many golf courses, and 400 acres of parkland. Eclectic dining and trendy shopping districts augment the city’s cultural and entertainment options.

Sign up for novel policy tours that will take you a half-mile underground to view one of our world-class potash mines, inside Canada’s largest science project – the Canadian Light Source Synchrotron, and through one of the world’s top university-linked research parks – Innovation Place. No wonder they call Saskatoon “Science City.”

Experience the famous prairies hospitality, and at the same time learn more about one of North America’s fastest growing economies. Come to Saskatchewan next summer!

For additional information, please visit: www.pnwer.org/2012AnnualSummit

Among many issues, the Saskatoon Summit will address:• Agriculture – Working Together for

a Stronger Industry• Meeting the Growing Demand for

Energy• Food Security – Taking a North

American Approach• Innovation – Strengthening our

Regional Innovation System• CO2 Gas Mitigation• Water Management Strategies• The New West Partnership – A

Model for Regional Cooperation• Talent Attraction – Mobility and

Recognition of Qualifications• Transportation Challenges

– Borders, Infrastructure, Harmonization, and Hubs

The Power of Partnerships

www.pnwer.org/2012AnnualSummit

Pacific NorthWest Economic Region (PNWER)2200 Alaskan Way, Suite 460 | Seattle, Washington | 98121

www.pnwer.org | P: 206-443-7723 | F: 206-443-7703