  We use dimensional regularization in pure quantum gravity on de Sitter
background to evaluate the one loop expectation value of an invariant operator
which gives the local expansion rate. We show that the renormalization of this
nonlocal composite operator can be accomplished using the counterterms of a
simple local theory of gravity plus matter, at least at one loop order. This
renormalization completely absorbs the one loop correction, which accords with
the prediction that the lowest secular back-reaction should be a 2-loop effect.
