WRC funds come from three main sources:
1.    The Oregon State Legislature supports the Cooperative through funding of the Forest Research Laboratory at OSU
2.    Contractual members contribute annual membership fees
3.    Outside grants and contracts.
State funds are used for the Director's salary, office and laboratory space, incidental supplies, secretarial help, and other support staff. State funds may also support research technicians, graduate students, and other operating expenses. Annual membership fees are used for the salaries of other permanent and part-time employees, graduate students, supplies, equipment, and travel.

Funding for Cooperative research can also be obtained via contracts, research grants, fellowships, scholarships, or gifts from individuals or philanthropic organizations