STATE ACTION https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&rss=36ZkuiS2 Sat, 6 Jun 2026 22:17:53 GMT Fri, 5 Jun 2026 00:08:05 GMT Copyright © 2026 Oregon Association of Nurseries Comments on the Draft 2027-2028 Performance Partnership Agreement (PPA) between EPA and DEQ https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=519652 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=519652 Dear Administrator Pokon and Director Feldon,

On behalf of the undersigned organizations representing Oregon’s agriculture and natural resource industries, we appreciate the opportunity to comment on the Draft 2026-2028 Performance Partnership Agreement. Our members are both primary stakeholders in the protection of Oregon's environment, and primary entities regulated under the programs described in this agreement.

Read more

]]> Fri, 5 Jun 2026 01:08:05 GMT Testimony to Portland City Council on $525 Million of Water Revenue Bonds https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=519304 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=519304 This coming Wednesday, May 13, 2026, you will be asked to vote to approve $525 million of debt in the form of water revenue bonds on behalf of the City of Portland, primarily driven by the Bull Run Filtration Plant. This item represents an opportunity to challenge, adapt, and fix what was broken in the old form of government: bureau fiefdoms, black-box project management, cost overruns from missing project elements (in this case 7 miles of pipeline), and what to appears to be a revolving door between city staff and firms who “score city contracts."

Read more

]]> Fri, 15 May 2026 23:53:25 GMT OAN recommendation to the Governor’s Prosperity Council https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=519130 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=519130 Background: The nursery and greenhouse industry is Oregon's leading agricultural commodity, valued at over $1.3 billion annually. Critically, we are a traded sector: 74% of our sales flow to customers outside Oregon, making this commodity essential to the state's trade profile and economic resilience. Nursery association members represent wholesale plant growers, Christmas tree growers, retailers, and greenhouse operators. Our members are located throughout the state, with our largest nursery growing operations found in Clackamas, Marion, Washington, Yamhill, and Multnomah Counties.

Read more

]]> Thu, 7 May 2026 18:52:52 GMT Employers and Labor Unions File Suit Over Unaffordable Oregon Climate Rules https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=518732 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=518732 Estimates show nearly $5 billion in higher energy costs for Oregon families and businesses at stake

SALEM, Ore – April 16, 2026 – A broad coalition of Oregon employers, labor unions and trade associations filed a lawsuit today challenging the validity of Oregon’s controversial Climate Protection Program. The groups seek to strike down rules projected to cause the most costly greenhouse gas program in North America and that they argue the Department of Environmental Quality lacked the authority to create.

Read more

]]> Fri, 17 Apr 2026 18:16:13 GMT Formal Comment and Request for Process Reset – TIGHGER 2.0 Draft Gap Measures https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=518572 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=518572 On behalf of Oregon’s business and natural resource sectors, we are writing to express our profound disappointment and concern regarding the Oregon Department of Energy’s (ODOE) decision to proceed with the public comment period for the TIGHGER 2.0 Draft Gap Measures and Scenarios. While we acknowledge the deadline extension to April 10, 2026, a 20-day window is wholly insufficient given the extreme nature of the proposed measures and recognition from the Governor’s office that the current draft is fundamentally flawed.

Read more

]]> Fri, 10 Apr 2026 21:51:51 GMT Thank You Letter to OSU Statewides Coalition Partners https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517917 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517917 Dear OSU Statewides Coalition Partners,

We extend our sincerest thanks for your strong partnership and advocacy throughout Oregon’s 2026 legislative session. Your commitment to Oregon’s communities, natural resources and economic vitality was instrumental in shaping a positive outcome for the OSU Statewide Public Service Programs: Agricultural Experiment Station, Extension Service, and Forest Research Laboratory.

Read more

]]> Thu, 12 Mar 2026 17:37:42 GMT Letter of Support for Statewides, FFA, FNRL, and Japanese Beetle https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517613 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517613 Please Support Funding for OSU Statewides, Oregon FFA and FNRL, and Japanese Beetle Eradication

Senator Kate Lieber, Co-Chair Ways & Means
Representative Tawna Sanchez, Co-Chair Ways & Means
Oregon State Legislature
February 26, 2026

On behalf of our broad and diverse coalition of agriculture and natural resource organizations, we write to express our strong support for continued and robust funding for Oregon State University Statewides, Oregon FFA and FNRL, and Japanese Beetle eradication and response efforts.

Read more

]]> Fri, 27 Feb 2026 21:52:50 GMT SB 1507 Veto Letter https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517587 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517587 Dear Gov. Kotek:

The undersigned organizations respectfully request that you veto SB 1507, which would increase the tax burden for working Oregonians and state businesses by hundreds of millions of dollars. It would do so at a time when working Oregonians are struggling to make ends meet, when unemployment consistently exceeds the national average, when the state is losing private sector jobs year over year, when the state is falling (sometimes precipitously) in a wide range of competitive indices, when the state’s GDP continues to grow more slowly than the national average, and when the tax and regulatory burdens carried by the state’s employers have become so heavy that recruitment efforts by other states have produced what a state economist calls “an insane success rate.”

Read more

]]> Thu, 26 Feb 2026 20:41:41 GMT Don’t Worsen Oregon’s Economic Challenges: Preserve Connection to Federal Tax Law https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517300 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517300 Since 2019, the state tax burden borne by individuals and businesses has grown tremendously. Individuals in Portland are paying a 13.9% marginal tax rate on incomes over $125,000, which is the highest rate imposed on that income threshold in the entire country. Meanwhile, state business taxes have increased 77% to $3.4 billion. As a result, Oregon’s economic outlook is in freefall. According to the Tax Foundation, the state has slid to 35th in general tax competitiveness and 49th in corporate tax competitiveness. Oregon ranks 47th as a place to move due in large part to the state’s high costs and anemic economy.

Read more

]]> Tue, 17 Feb 2026 17:41:54 GMT Support Letter for HB 4006 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517273 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517273 Dear Co-Chair Helm, Co-Chair Owens, Vice-Chair Finger-McDonald, and Members of the Committee:

We are writing in support of HB 4006. This geographically specific legislation will allow an intergovernmental entity to manage water supplies in a more holistic approach, similar to irrigation districts and other governmental entities that deliver water. Together and individually, our associations advocate for common-sense water policies that move Oregon’s economy, communities, and environment toward a more secure water future. HB 4006 is an example of a collaborative, community-based approach that will help meet water needs in the region efficiently and equitably.

Read more

]]> Mon, 16 Feb 2026 17:15:12 GMT Coalition Letter in Support of JB Funding https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517231 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517231 Dear Co-Chairs Lieber and Sanchez

On behalf of the Oregon nursery and greenhouse industry, the Oregon Seed Council, and a coalition of Oregon’s major agricultural associations and supporters, we respectfully request your support for Oregon agriculture. This request is focused on addressing the immediate and time-sensitive economic and phytosanitary threat posed by the Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica) during Oregon’s regulatory transition period. Both the nursery industry and irrigated sod are in the crosshairs of economic uncertainty due to the defunding of the Japanese beetle program.

Read more

ODA Slide Deck on JB Eradication (2026)
Oregon Agricultural Statistics (April, 2025)

]]> Fri, 13 Feb 2026 17:30:30 GMT RE: Oregon Association of Nurseries Public Comments: 2025-26 Water Right Rulemaking https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517147 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517147 Vice-Chair Smitherman, Commissioners, and Director Gall:

On behalf of the Oregon Association of Nurseries (“OAN”), I am writing to request that the Oregon Water Resources Department (“OWRD”) revise its proposed rules for OAR Chapter 690, Division 18 to ensure the rules clearly recognize that groundwater rights are eligible for the Allocation of Conserved Water (“ACW”) program set forth in Division 18. Specifically, OAN requests that OWRD re-insert the rule provisions OWRD proposed on October 14, 2025 in OAR 690-018-0050(5)(c)(C)(i), OAR 690-018-0050(5)(c)(D)(ii), OAR 690-018-0065(2)(c)(A), and OAR 690-018-0065(3)(b), which clarify that groundwater conserved under the ACW program will remain in its source aquifer. As explained in this letter, OWRD’s proposed language provided important clarity on groundwater rights for a program that is uniquely positioned to benefit both water user interests and conservation interests. 

Read more

]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:02:09 GMT Oregon Agriculture and Natural Resource Organizations Support Federal Tax Code Conformity https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517146 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517146 On behalf of a coalition of Oregon agriculture and natural resource organizations, we write in strong opposition to the –4 amendment to SB 1507.

Our coalition strongly supports Oregon remaining connected to the federal tax code, particularly with respect to bonus depreciation and expensing for machinery and equipment. The proposal to disconnect from these federal provisions is deeply concerning for the producers and land managers we represent.

Read more

]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2026 16:58:47 GMT HB 4098 opens the door to unprecedented litigation with zero guardrails, threatening insurance affordability for all Oregon consumers. https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517104 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517104 HB 4098 would allow parties to sue both policyholders and insurers, including third-party claimants. Unlike other states that have enacted safeguards to limit excessive litigation, HB 4098 includes no mechanisms to prevent the costliest forms of legal action. This risks destabilizing Oregon's insurance market at a time when Oregonians are saying affordability is their top concern.

Read more

]]> Mon, 9 Feb 2026 17:40:21 GMT RE: Oregon Association of Nurseries Public Comments: 2025-26 Water Right Rulemaking https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517054 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=517054 Vice-Chair Smitherman, Commissioners, and Director Gall:

On behalf of the Oregon Association of Nurseries (“OAN”), I am writing to request that the Oregon Water Resources Department (“OWRD”) revise its proposed rules for OAR Chapter 690, Division 18 to ensure the rules clearly recognize that groundwater rights are eligible for the Allocation of Conserved Water (“ACW”) program set forth in Division 18. Specifically, OAN requests that OWRD re-insert the rule provisions OWRD proposed on October 14, 2025 in OAR 690-018-0050(5)(c)(C)(i), OAR 690-018-0050(5)(c)(D)(ii), OAR 690-018-0065(2)(c)(A), and OAR 690-018-0065(3)(b), which clarify that groundwater conserved under the ACW program will remain in its source aquifer. As explained in this letter, OWRD’s proposed language provided important clarity on groundwater rights for a program that is uniquely positioned to benefit both water user interests and conservation interests.

Read more

]]> Fri, 6 Feb 2026 18:36:48 GMT Opposition to Climate Superfund Legislation – SB 1541 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516951 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516951 February 2, 2026

Members of the Oregon Legislature

Re: Opposition to Climate Superfund Legislation – SB 1541

Dear Members of the Legislature:

We are a coalition of businesses and associations that represent employers, workers, and job creators across Oregon. Our organizations are committed to a fair, predictable, and balanced environment in which Oregon’s economy can grow and communities can thrive. For these reasons, we respectfully ask that you oppose proposals to establish a so-called “Climate Superfund” in Oregon.

Read more

]]> Tue, 3 Feb 2026 23:24:06 GMT Oppose SB 1541 – Climate Superfund https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516948 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516948 SB 1541 proposes to create a Climate Superfund, establishing a program that imposes financial obligations on certain companies based on past, lawful activities. The bill relies on retroactive liability and lacks clear limits on total costs or future reassessments, and it creates significant uncertainty that would flow through the economy.

At a time when state leaders are focused on affordability, competitiveness, and long-term prosperity, a so-called “Climate Superfund” moves Oregon in the wrong direction. The proposal creates open-ended financial risk, raises costs for households and businesses, threatens jobs, and undermines confidence in Oregon’s economic future.

Read more

]]> Tue, 3 Feb 2026 21:00:36 GMT Written Testimony of the Oregon Association of Nurseries to the Joint Interim Committee On Ways and Means Subcommittee On Natural Resources https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516524 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516524 January 16, 2026

Co-Chairs Sen. Courtney Neron Misslin, Rep. Emerson Levy, members of the committee

On behalf of the Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN), I write to express support for the Oregon Department of Agriculture's request for a $372,490 increase in Other Funds limitation and authorization of two permanent positions (1.26 FTE) to establish a Japanese Beetle compliance program. This is an industry funded request to an immediate crisis in Oregon's largest agricultural sector.

Read more

]]> Fri, 16 Jan 2026 21:46:08 GMT State Board of Agriculture Letter to Governor on Prosperity Roadmap https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516351 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516351 Dear Governor Kotek,

On behalf of the State Board of Agriculture, I write to express our support for your December 3, 2025, announcement of the Prosperity Roadmap and to ensure that Oregon’s founding traded sector, Agriculture and Food & Beverage, is fully integrated into this effort. Agriculture and Food & Beverage have long been cornerstones of Oregon’s prosperity, supporting more than 531,000 jobs, anchoring economic activity in every county, and generating an estimated $2.4 billion in exports with an overall $42 billion economic impact to the state annually.

Read more

]]> Mon, 12 Jan 2026 22:38:53 GMT Response inquiry related to 2025-26 Water Rights Rulemaking Scope https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516105 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=516105 December 31, 2025

Dear Water Parties,

Thank you for reaching out to the Department regarding the agency's water rights rulemaking process. As discussed, many factors have led the Department to undertake a serious effort to address processing times to the maximum extent possible with existing resources including: direction from legislators, a signing letter from the Governor, the concerns expressed by parties to the fee shortfall conversations, the prior letter calling for action from water law experts, a recognized need internally for process improvements, and customer demand to improve water right transaction timeliness and customer service outcomes.

Read more

]]> Mon, 5 Jan 2026 16:29:45 GMT Ag and Natural Resource DEQ Nutrient Survey https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515858 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515858 Dear Ms. Wigal,

The undersigned organizations are submitting this letter in lieu of completing the recent survey we received as part of Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s efforts to develop a Nutrient Strategy. While we are interested in providing our feedback, the survey that was sent out for organizations does not target the regulated community and associated organizations, and the questions do not align with our work and the ways we engage with DEQ around nutrient pollution prevention and reduction efforts.

Read more

]]> Mon, 15 Dec 2025 23:55:57 GMT Oregon Association of Nurseries Comments: 2025-26 Water Rights Rulemaking https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515686 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515686 The purpose of this letter is to identify comments on various rule changes that the Oregon Water Resources Department (“OWRD”) has proposed as part of its 2025-26 rulemaking. These comments are in addition to the comments that the Oregon Association of Nurseries (“OAN”) has made verbally throughout the course of the rulemaking process.

Read more

]]> Mon, 8 Dec 2025 17:15:21 GMT Group Letter on 2025-26 Water Rights Rulemaking https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515494 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515494 November 26, 2025
Oregon Water Resources Department
Ivan Gall, Director
Laura Hartt, Rules Coordinator
Raquel Rancier, Deputy Director
RE: 2025-26 Water Rights Rulemaking

We are writing to express concern about the scope of the Water Rights Rulemaking being conducted by the Oregon Water Resources Department (the Department). All of our organizations serve on the Rules Advisory Committee (RAC) and we are gravely concerned that the overly broad scope of the rulemaking under an extremely short timeframe will lead to negative outcomes rather than greater efficiencies. As clearly stated by Department staff when the RAC was convened in September, this rulemaking process represents the most extensive rulemaking ever undertaken by the Department, currently covering eighteen different divisions. Likewise, the principal, stated purpose of the current rulemaking process is to address necessary administrative rules implementing provisions contained in House Bill 3342 and House Bill 3544 enacted during the state’s 2025 legislative session. However, there are only a few rule divisions directly related to legislative implementation, and more than half of the chapters currently under debate have no connection to either bill.

Read more

]]> Mon, 1 Dec 2025 18:32:31 GMT Comments regarding proposed changes to OAR 165-012-005 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515347 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515347 November 21, 2025

Oregon Elections Division

Dear Elections Division:

Please accept comments from the undersigned organizations regarding proposed changes to OAR 165-012-005, incorporating legislative and administrative changes into the Campaign Finance Manual. These comments reflect our acknowledgment of revisions incorporated following feedback from the related HB 4024 Rules Advisory Committee as well as our continued concerns with several features of the proposed rules.

Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Nov 2025 16:30:42 GMT ODA - Reductions Options https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515065 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=515065 MISSION AND REDUCTION STRATEGY

The mission of the Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is to Protect. Promote. Prosper. In responding to statewide budget challenges, this mission is our compass, guiding every decision we make on behalf of the people of Oregon.

This is a complex challenge. ODA’s programs are deeply interconnected, meaning any reduction sends ripples through our agency, our partners, and the communities we serve. Therefore, our strategy is designed to protect our core operations, the foundational duties the people of Oregon have entrusted to us. While these choices are difficult and will limit our ability to tackle new or expanding responsibilities, they are essential to sustaining our capacity to perform our most critical functions and fulfilling our role as part of the solution for Oregon.

Read more

]]> Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:56:11 GMT Selected Tax Policy Changes – Oregon's Legislative Revenue Office https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=514494 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=514494 This paper provides brief, summary descriptions of tax policy changes that would increase General Fund tax collections and likely require a majority vote. Actual vote requirements are a Legislative Counsel determination that depend on the specific language of a bill. This paper is divided into two sections. The first section policies in H.R. 1, Section VII. The second section describes certain tax expenditures that could be modified to increase revenue.

Read more

 

]]> Fri, 17 Oct 2025 18:06:22 GMT Subject: OSU Statewides – Thank you and looking ahead https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=513058 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=513058 August 7, 2025

To our OSU Statewides stakeholders, supporters and partners:

Greetings,

Governor Kotek recently signed SB 5525, formalizing the Oregon Legislature’s investment in the OSU Statewide Public Service Programs for the 2025-27 biennium.

Collectively, we are deeply appreciative of your continued support and strong advocacy during the session. It is meaningful when Oregon’s elected officials hear directly from constituents like you about how the OSU Statewides are working alongside you and your communities to address needs, challenges and opportunities.

Read more

]]> Tue, 12 Aug 2025 20:39:00 GMT OBI Letter to Governor Kotek: cap-and-trade program https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=512407 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=512407 Governor Kotek:

As we discussed several weeks ago, and in May 2024, it would be in the best interest of Oregonians and Oregon’s businesses to establish a functioning cap-and-trade program in lieu of the administratively adopted Climate Protection Program (CPP).

Read more

]]> Wed, 16 Jul 2025 23:16:53 GMT P. austrocedri NPB Response https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=512015 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=512015 Read more

]]> Tue, 1 Jul 2025 18:00:25 GMT SB 1153 – Too Rushed, Too Many Unintended Consequences https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511429 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511429 SB 1153 proposes to alter more than 100 years of Oregon water law to the detriment of water users throughout the state, including agricultural water users, by unnecessarily complicating the water right transfer process. The implications are too consequential for a rushed process seeking to address theoretical problems. While the latest (-10) amendments improve the bill in some areas, they create additional questions, and other serious problems remain.

Read more

]]> Mon, 9 Jun 2025 21:26:09 GMT What Is SB 1153? https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511426 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511426 SB 1153 would alter how farmers and other water users can use and make changes to their existing water rights in Oregon. Water rights are legal ways for individuals and entities to use water (from rivers, reservoirs, or wells). Our members use water rights to grow food, plants, and other crops but water rights can be used for a variety of legal purposes (like drinking water or for a business). If you need to make a change to where or how water is used, this is called a transfer. For farmers, this process helps them adapt to things like drought and other weather changes, natural disasters, changing crops and market demands, or conservation projects.

Read more

]]> Mon, 9 Jun 2025 18:42:21 GMT VOTE NO on SB 916B https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511365 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511365 Protect Integrity of Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Program

Employers pay 100% of unemployment taxes. Public employers, including cities, counties and school districts, typically reimburse the state for benefits paid to former employees. The increased costs of providing unemployment benefits for workers on strike would be spread among all employers, consumers, and local taxpayers.

Read more

]]> Fri, 6 Jun 2025 17:03:41 GMT SB 1153 2025 Opposition Letter - Updated for Senate Rules https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511362 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511362 June 5, 2025

Senate Committee on Rules

Chair Jama, Vice-Chair Bonham, Senator Golden, Senator Manning Jr., and Senator Thatcher:

We are writing to voice our strong opposition to SB 1153 and the proposed amendments. We are a diverse group of agricultural and natural resources organizations who advocate for common-sense water policies that move Oregon’s economy, communities, and environment toward a secure water future. As we head into a future where new water rights are no longer available, the water right transfer process will provide crucial flexibility for water right holders to manage existing water rights more efficiently. The proposed -5 amendment to SB 1153 was posted to OLIS only a few hours before the bill’s scheduled public hearing and a day before the scheduled work session. Rather than simplify SB 1153, the proposed 37-page amendment raises more questions than it answers, still creates new vague standards for an undefined problem, and will hamper the use of transfers—the most valuable mechanism for moving water to when and where it is needed most for all beneficial uses. SB 1153 will establish new transfer evaluation standards that will significantly slow the transfer review process and stymie water management flexibility and water use efficiency for farms, ranches, irrigation districts and other agricultural water suppliers across the state.

Read more

]]> Fri, 6 Jun 2025 16:17:59 GMT From Minimum to Houseable: The Case for Wage Reform in Oregon’s Cost-of-Living Crisis https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511202 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511202 Gabby Mijalski-Fahim

Final Report Submitted for partial fulfillment of the PS 509 Summative Public Policy

Project at Portland State University

Project Commencement: Spring 2025

Read more

]]> Mon, 2 Jun 2025 17:06:23 GMT HB 2548-7 Testimony https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511144 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=511144 Chair Bowman, vice chairs, and committee members thank you for the opportunity to speak with you on HB2548. My name is Jim Simnitt and I own and run Simnitt Nursery, a second-generation nursery in Canby with my brother Jerry. I am also a past president of the Oregon Association of Nurseries and a proud graduate of Oregon State University.

Read more

]]> Fri, 30 May 2025 17:04:02 GMT Natural Resources Lobby Budget Priorities - 2025 Legislative Session https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510895 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510895 Read more

]]> Thu, 22 May 2025 17:25:41 GMT T3-2022-16220 – Remand, Response to S36; Soils and Ag Land as a Natural Resource https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510701 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510701 April 14, 2025
Via Email
Liz Francher, Multnomah County Hearings Officer
Multnomah County Community Services, Land Use Planning
1600 SE 190th Avenue
Portland OR 97233-5910
Subject: T3-2022-16220 – Remand, Response to S36; Soils and Ag Land as a Natural
Resource

Dear Ms. Francher:

1000 Friends of Oregon is a nonprofit, membership organization that works with Oregonians to support livable urban and rural communities, protect family farms, forests and natural areas, and provide transportation and housing choices. In the matter related to proposal by the City of Portland Water Bureau to develop and operate a drinking water filtration facility, communications tower and related transmission pipelines on lands zoned for agricultural use (Case File T3-2022-16220) we offer the following comments for your consideration in response to S36; Soils and Ag Land as a Natural Resource.

Read more

]]> Wed, 14 May 2025 22:49:50 GMT Comments on Oregon’s Integrated Water Resources Strategy 2025-2031 Draft 2 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510656 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510656 May 12, 2025
Oregon Water Resources Department
725 Summer Street NE, Suite A
Salem, OR 97301
Submitted via email: WRD_DL_waterstrategy@water.oregon.gov
RE: Comments on Oregon’s Integrated Water Resources Strategy 2025-2031 Draft 2

The Oregon Association of Nurseries, the Oregon Farm Bureau, and the Oregon Water Resources Congress are providing comments on Oregon’s Integrated Water Resources Strategy (IWRS) 2025-2031 Draft 2. We appreciate the time and attention provided to this important multi-agency effort. We have a few suggestions and recommendations on the document and overall process. Our primary request is that the next IWRS update be developed with a workgroup of stakeholders and agency leaders. We also request that the list of priority actions be informed by additional stakeholder feedback post-session.

Read more

]]> Tue, 13 May 2025 21:25:13 GMT SB 5525 - OSU Statewide Public Service Programs https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510505 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510505 May 1, 2025
Senator Kate Lieber
Representative Tawna Sanchez
Co-Chairs, Joint Ways & Means Committee
RE: OSU Statewide Public Service Programs

Dear Senator Lieber and Representative Sanchez,

Our coalition of diverse stakeholders would like to share our support for the Oregon State University Statewide Public Service Programs – the Agricultural Experiment Station, Extension Service, and Forest Research Laboratory. Known as “The OSU Statewides,” these programs touch every corner of the state and serve all Oregonians by providing state-of-the-art research and community-based education to address real-world problems.

Read more

]]> Fri, 9 May 2025 17:24:47 GMT HB 3342-4: Letter to Oregon Water Resources Department https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510245 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510245 On March 24, 2025, we joined a letter with a group of agricultural organizations to (1) voice support for the changes set forth in House Bill 3342 that would improve the Oregon Water Resources Department’s (“OWRD”) administrative processes and (2) to discuss concerns with multiple provisions of the bill that would detrimentally alter the water rights landscape.

We are pleased that House Bill 3342-4 addresses many of the concerns set forth in the March 24, 2025 letter. However, we are still concerned that various provisions may have a detrimental impact to our members and interfere with the broader process improvements set forth in the bill. This letter identifies the sections we support and identifies the outstanding sections of concern. 

[read more]

]]> Thu, 1 May 2025 17:02:05 GMT Tariff Letter to Congressman Moolenaar https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510243 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510243 February 18, 2025

Dear Congressman Moolenaar,

I am writing to express my concern regarding the rising importation of artificial Christmas trees into the United States and to request your support in imposing tariffs on these products.

Artificial Christmas trees have become a popular alternative to traditional, farm-grown trees among many American families. However, approximately 95% of these artificial trees are manufactured in China, where lower production costs stemming from inexpensive labor and materials allow foreign producers to undercut domestic growers. This influx is adversely impacting American Christmas tree growers.

Read more

]]> Thu, 1 May 2025 16:46:28 GMT HB 3342-4 Letter: OAN, OFB, OWRC https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510242 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=510242 April 29, 2025

Chair Golden, Vice-Chair Nash, and Members of the Committee:

On March 24, 2025, we joined a letter with a group of agricultural organizations to (1) voice support for the changes set forth in House Bill 3342 that would improve the Oregon Water Resources Department’s (“OWRD”) administrative processes and (2) to discuss concerns with
multiple provisions of the bill that would detrimentally alter the water rights landscape.

We are pleased that House Bill 3342-4 addresses many of the concerns set forth in the March 24, 2025 letter. However, we are still concerned that various provisions may have a detrimental impact to our members and interfere with the broader process improvements set forth in the bill. This letter identifies the sections we support and identifies the outstanding sections of concern.

Read more

]]> Thu, 1 May 2025 16:42:37 GMT Jesse Nelson - Testimony Regarding City of Portland's Proposed Water Treatment Plant https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509839 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509839 Multnomah County Planning

Re: T3-2022-16220

My name is Jesse Nelson I am a third generation nurseryman and I here to express my opposition to the Portland Water Bureau’s decision to build a water treatment plant on high-value farmland in East Multnomah County.

This decision is deeply troubling, not only because of the irreparable damage it would do to some of the most productive agricultural soil in the state, but also because it signals a troubling disregard for Oregon’s long-standing commitment to farmland preservation and sustainable land use. Once this land is paved over it is lost forever — and with it, the opportunity to support rural livelihoods, and environmental resilience.

Read more

]]> Tue, 15 Apr 2025 21:27:23 GMT Rod Park - Testimony Regarding City of Portland's Proposed Water Treatment Plant https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509838 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509838 April 16, 2025

To: Hearings Officer

Re: City of Portland’s proposed Water Treatment Plant (Case File T3-2022-16220)

My name is Rod Park. My farm is located at 9797 SE Revenue Road Boring, OR 97009. I am a 3rd generation farmer in the eastern portion of the Metro region. I am currently growing nursery plants in Clackamas County, south and west of the proposed water treatment plant.

I have seen and experienced the good, the bad and the ugly of our land use system. The good is the protection of farm and forest lands while at the same time promoting vibrant communities within the urban growth boundary. The bad is the land that sometimes needs to be converted from rural uses to urban ones or capacity underutilized within the UGB. The ugly is to see how some pervert our land use system to their advantage.

Read more

]]> Tue, 15 Apr 2025 21:18:58 GMT Written Testimony of the Oregon Association of Nurseries on House Bill 3544-5 House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509762 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509762 April 10, 2025

Chairs Helm and Owens, Vice Chair Finger McDonald, and Members of the Committee:

Background on the Nursery and Greenhouse Industry
The nursery and greenhouse industry is the state’s largest agricultural sector, with over $1.37 billion in sales across the nation and the globe. Nationally, Oregon ranks third in nursery production. Nearly 80% of the nursery stock grown in our state leaves our borders – with over 50% reaching markets east of the Mississippi River. By the numbers: #1 in US: sales of conifers, shade trees, Christmas trees, and flowering trees. $443.2 million in annual payroll - $44,108 average annual pay. We send ecologically friendly, carbon sequestering, green products out of the state, and we bring traded sector dollars back to Oregon. Nursery association members represent wholesale plant growers, Christmas tree growers, retailers, and greenhouse operators. Our members are located throughout the state, with our largest nursery growing operation

Read more

]]> Tue, 15 Apr 2025 21:30:23 GMT Oregon Trade Summit https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509814 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509814 APRIL 28 | 2:00-4:30 P.M.
Virtual Webinar

Join leaders from various businesses throughout the state, as well as
policymakers, for a timely event focused on trade, tariffs and Oregon’s
economy.

Read more

]]> Mon, 14 Apr 2025 19:27:42 GMT Natural Resource Organization Concerns on SB 1154 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509761 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509761 Senate Bill 1154 proposes changes to Oregon’s groundwater protection statutes, including changes involving at least 6 different state agencies (DEQ, ODA, OWRD, DLCD, OHA, DOGAMI). The bill also proposes changes to agency processes including agency and local community responses to areas of groundwater concern and management. More broadly, its proposed changes touch on many other major policy areas including water and private property rights, and land use and development. This bill is being described as a “Groundwater Quality Act Reform Bill,” but dropped late in session with no meaningful discussion or prior engagement with stakeholders.

Read more

]]> Fri, 11 Apr 2025 16:10:49 GMT A Call for Collaboration on Fee Transparency Legislation https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509710 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509710 Our coalition is writing to raise concerns about SB 430 which aims to eliminate so-called "junk fees." While the intent behind the legislation—to promote transparency in online sales—is commendable, the bill as currently drafted adopts an overly broad, one-size-fits-all approach. This lack of nuance fails to account for the legitimate, industry-specific fee structures that many sectors rely on to operate efficiently and serve their customers.

Read more

]]> Wed, 9 Apr 2025 22:28:52 GMT Preserve Oregon’s Connection to Federal Tax Law: Vote NO on HB 2092-A https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509709 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509709 Oregon’s connection to federal tax law is one of the few remaining sources of stability and predictability for employers navigating an increasingly challenging business climate. While regulatory burdens and rising costs already place our state at a competitive disadvantage, Oregon’s rolling conformity to federal tax law offers a critical backboard—ensuring straightforward and consistent tax filing and efficient administration.

Read more

]]> Wed, 9 Apr 2025 22:26:02 GMT Comment Letter to Multnomah County-April 4, 2025 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509627 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509627 April 4, 2025
Multnomah County Planning
Re: T3-2022-16220 Comments

Dear Multnomah County:

Thank you for hosting the remand hearing and this letter is to provide comments on behalf of the Oregon Association of Nurseries (“OAN”). Please include this letter in the record and send me the decision when it is issued.

Our members include many farms which grow valuable crops on high value farmland which is adversely impacted by the proposed water pipelines and treatment facility. The proposal by the City of Portland to site an urban water treatment facility adversely impacts agricultural natural resources including some of the highest quality and most productive agricultural land in the state of Oregon. As proposed, operation of the water treatment facility would displace, cover and convert nearly 95 acres of agricultural natural resources to an urban water treatment facility. Please consider the following comments and concerns in review of the proposed development.

Read more

]]> Mon, 7 Apr 2025 16:52:05 GMT Reciprocal Tariff Breakdown https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509523 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509523 View the chart

]]> Thu, 3 Apr 2025 16:38:06 GMT EXECUTIVE ORDER: EGULATING IMPORTS WITH A RECIPROCAL TARIFF TO RECTIFY TRADE PRACTICES THAT CONTRIBUTE TO LARGE AND PERSISTENT ANNUAL UNITED STATES GOODS TRADE DEFICITS https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509521 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509521 By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.)(IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.)(NEA), section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code,

Read more

]]> Thu, 3 Apr 2025 16:34:36 GMT EXECUTIVE ORDER: FURTHER AMENDMENT TO DUTIES ADDRESSING THE SYNTHETIC OPIOID SUPPLY CHAIN IN THE PEOPLE 'S REPUBLIC OF CHINA AS APPLIED TO LOW-VALUE IMPORTS https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509520 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509520 By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (IEEPA), the National Emergencies Act (50 U.S.C. 1601 et seq.), section 604 of the Trade Act of 1974, as amended (19 U.S.C. 2483), and section 301 of title 3, United States Code, it is hereby ordered:

Read more

]]> Thu, 3 Apr 2025 16:31:51 GMT Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Closes De Minimis Exemptions to Combat China’s Role in America’s Synthetic Opioid Crisis https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509519 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509519 CLOSING LOOPHOLES IN THE TARIFF SYSTEM: Today, President Donald J. Trump signed an Executive Order eliminating duty-free de minimis treatment for low-value imports from China, a critical step in countering the

Read more

]]> Thu, 3 Apr 2025 16:28:48 GMT Fact Sheet: President Donald J. Trump Declares National Emergency to Increase our Competitive Edge, Protect our Sovereignty, and Strengthen our National and Economic Security https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509518 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509518 PURSUING RECIPROCITY TO REBUILD THE ECONOMY AND RESTORE NATIONAL AND ECONOMIC SECURITY: Today, President Donald J. Trump declared that foreign trade and economic practices have created a national emergency, and his order imposes responsive tariffs to strengthen the

Read more

]]> Thu, 3 Apr 2025 16:26:15 GMT SB 1153 2025 Opposition Letter https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509220 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509220 March 25, 2025

Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire

Chair Golden, Vice-Chair Nash, Senator Girod, Senator Prozanski, Senator Taylor:

We are writing to voice our strong opposition to SB 1153. We are a diverse group of agricultural and natural resources water users who advocate for common sense water policies that move Oregon’s economy, communities, and environment toward a secure water future. As we head into a future where new water rights are no longer available, the water right transfer process will provide crucial flexibility for water right holders to manage existing water rights more efficiently. SB 1153 will establish two new transfer evaluation standards that will significantly slow the transfer review process and stymie water management flexibility and water use efficiency for farms, ranches, irrigation districts and other agricultural water suppliers across the state.

Read more

]]> Tue, 25 Mar 2025 23:49:16 GMT Board of Agriculture HB 2548 Letter https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509207 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509207 March 20, 2025
The Honorable Tina Kotek
Governor of Oregon
900 Court Street NE
Salem, OR 97301

Dear Governor Kotek,

On behalf of the voting members of the State Board of Agriculture, we write today to share our deep concerns regarding House Bill 2548. Following public comments at our March meeting and direct input from our agricultural communities, we feel it is our obligation to provide our insights directly to your office. While the Board primarily advises the Oregon Department of Agriculture, certain policy matters of significant
impact, like this, compel us to engage at this level.

Read more

]]> Tue, 25 Mar 2025 18:26:13 GMT Testimony before Joint Subcommittee on Natural Resources Senate Bill 5502 - Relating to the financial administration of the State Department of Agriculture https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509179 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509179 By Jeff Stone, Executive Director, Oregon Association of Nurseries
March 26, 2025

Co-Chairs Sen. Frederick and Rep. Levy, members of the committee, my name is Jeff Stone, and I serve as the Executive Director of the Oregon Association of Nurseries. The association and its members are enthusiastic supporters of Senate Bill 5502 – which funds the Oregon Department of Agriculture.

Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Mar 2025 23:47:14 GMT HB 3342 Coalition Concerns https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509178 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509178 March 24, 2025

Dear Co-Chairs Helm and Owens:

We are writing to express our concerns about several provisions within House Bill 3342. If enacted, the bill would have far-reaching consequences for agricultural water users across Oregon.

During the March 12 hearing, Representative Helm acknowledged that there is still time to work on this bill. We appreciate this opportunity and recognize the importance of improving the Oregon Water Resources Department’s (OWRD) water right transaction processes. We are committed to engaging constructively to ensure that Oregon water law preserves necessary legal protections while enabling the efficient and sustainable use of water by agriculture.

Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Mar 2025 23:40:26 GMT Senate Bill 1154 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509148 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509148 Senate Bill 1154
Sponsored by COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES AND WILDFIRE
 
SUMMARY

The following summary is not prepared by the sponsors of the measure and is not a part of the body thereof subject to consideration by the Legislative Assembly. It is an editor’s brief statement of the essential features of the measure as introduced. The statement includes a measure digest written in compliance with applicable readability standards.

Digest: This Act makes changes to laws about areas with ground water quality problems. (Flesch Readability Score: 63.4).

Modifies provisions of law related to declarations of ground water quality concern areas and ground water management areas. Directs the Governor to appoint an agency or agencies to lead an interagency team in ground water quality concern areas and ground water management areas. Provides that ground water management committees shall act in an advisory capacity.

Directs or authorizes the Department of Environmental Quality, the State Department of Agri- culture, the Water Resources Department, the Oregon Health Authority and the Department of Land Conservation and Development to take specified actions in ground water quality concern areas and ground water management areas.

Takes effect on the 91st day following adjournment sine die.

Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:34:12 GMT Statewide ET Project and Remotely Sensed ET Data: Applications for the Oregon Water Resources Department https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509146 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509146 Oregon Water Resources Department • Surface Water and Groundwater Section Staff • 3/21/2025

For questions or comments, contact Annette Liebe at 971-375-7322 or annette.i.liebe@water.oregon.gov.

Executive Summary

Purpose. This document describes datasets and applications of the Statewide Evapotranspiration (ET) Project and how those data will be applied to the work of the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD).

Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Mar 2025 17:05:30 GMT Testimony on HB 3116-2: House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509098 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=509098 March 20, 2025
House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water
RE: Testimony on HB 3116-2

Dear Co-Chair Helm, Co-Chair Owens, Vice-Chair Finger McDonald, and Members of the Committee:

We are providing testimony regarding HB 3116-2. We are an informal group of associations related to agriculture and water, all of whom have an interest in community-based water planning efforts. Our organizations (and respective members) participated in previous place-based and regional planning workgroups, rulemakings, and other related efforts. Overall, we are supportive of place-based planning and the need to support community efforts to implement plan components once finalized. However, we do have a few concerns and suggestions on the -2 amendments to HB 3116.

Read more

]]> Fri, 21 Mar 2025 16:19:41 GMT Testimony before the Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildfire Senate Bill 576 - Relating to funding Japanese Beetle Eradication https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508996 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508996 By Jeff Stone, Executive Director, Oregon Association of Nurseries
March 17, 2025

Chair Golden, Vice-Chair Nash, members of the committee, my name is Jeff Stone, and I serve as the Executive Director of the Oregon Association of Nurseries (OAN). It is my pleasure to support Senate Bill 576 – which allocates $2 million dollars from the General Fund to the State Department of Agriculture for the purpose of eradicating Japanese beetle grubs and adults. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Sen. Lew Frederick for introducing this bill on behalf of OAN.

Read more

]]> Tue, 18 Mar 2025 17:06:17 GMT Testimony before House Committee on Early Childhood and Human Services House Bill 2976 - Relating to funding services for interpretation of indigenous languages https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508985 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508985 By Jeff Stone, Executive Director, Oregon Association of Nurseries
March 17, 2025

Chair Hartman, Vice-Chair Scharf, Vice-Chair Nguyen, and members of the committee, my name is Jeff Stone, and I serve as the Executive Director of the Oregon Association of Nurseries. Thank you for the opportunity to submit testimony in support of HB 2976.

Read more

]]> Mon, 17 Mar 2025 20:30:17 GMT USDA Secretary Rollins Tariff Exemption Letter - March 2025 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508973 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508973 The Honorable Brooke Rollins
Secretary of Agriculture
U.S. Department of Agriculture
1400 Independence Avenue, S.W.
Washington, D.C. 20250

March 11, 2025

Dear Secretary Rollins,

AmericanHort appreciates the administration’s commitment to securing our borders and fostering a fair economic playing field through tariffs. As the leading national trade association representing the U.S. horticulture industry, we want to bring to your attention several critical industry inputs that are exclusively produced in Canada or Mexico, with no viable domestic alternatives. We respectfully request that these essential imports be exempt from the proposed 25% tariffs on horticultural products from Canada and Mexico.

Read more

]]> Mon, 17 Mar 2025 17:31:36 GMT OAN comments House Bill 3501 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508761 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508761 Testimony before House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water
House Bill 3501 - Relating Water Transfers
By Steve Shropshire, Jordan Ramis on behalf of the Oregon Association of Nurseries
March 5, 2025

Co-Chairs Helm and Owens, Vice Chair Finger-McDonald, members of the committee, my name is Steve Shropshire and I’m appearing today on behalf of the Oregon Association of Nurseries. It is my hope to address the water right transfer-related provisions of HB 3501, a bill that was introduced by Rep. Mark Owens at our request.

Read more

]]> Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:32:45 GMT No on House Bill 3362 | Another Cost Increase for Ag and Natural Resources https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508758 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508758 Our organizations proudly represent Oregon’s agriculture and natural resource industries in every county across the state. We write today to express our opposition to House Bill 3362, which would impose an excise tax on retail tire sales. The proposed tax would place an undue financial burden on Oregon’s hardworking families, particularly those in sectors who rely on essential equipment to sustain their livelihoods.

Read more

]]> Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:28:16 GMT Action Alert – “NO” on House Bill 2548 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508757 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508757 The stakes couldn’t be higher for producers! We need all-hands-on-deck to defend your ability to operate a farm or ranch in Oregon.

Unions and trial attorneys introduced HB 2548, which creates a workforce standards board for agriculture. These special interests do not want to spend the time or money to unionize farm by farm, so they are proposing a “workforce standards board” to bargain our workforce at the sector level!

Read more

]]> Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:25:20 GMT HB 2548 Coalition Piece https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508756 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508756 Vote “NO” on HB 2548

Save Oregon’s Family Farms! Protect Farm Jobs!

“NO” on Farm Workforce Standards Board

Oregon’s agriculture industry is already grappling with the aftermath of the recent agricultural overtime law, HB 4002 (2022). Now, HB 2548 proposes a sweeping, one-size-fits-all mandate that could force many family farms and ranches out of business.

HB 2548 disregards the significant protections already in place for farmworkers and threatens to fast-track new, burdensome regulations that could cripple Oregon’s agricultural industry.

Read more

]]> Mon, 10 Mar 2025 17:20:09 GMT Oppose SB 680 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508672 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508672 SB 680 goes too far. It seems to say that businesses can’t have connections to the natural world. It also presumes only one “right” way for a business to do its part to protect or improve the environment. States have adopted a wide variety of environmental and recycling requirements. Standards vary in different states and countries, as do the requirements concerning labeling related to these standards. Labels and logos could be considered a violation of this statute along with multiple other provisions of this legislation that would put any business promoting their investments in environmentally friendly practices at risk.

Read more

]]> Fri, 7 Mar 2025 17:14:48 GMT No on HB 2679 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508640 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508640 HB 2679 proposes an unnecessary restriction on neonicotinoids, an entire class of pesticides with many active ingredients and hundreds of registered products. Meanwhile, the US EPA and Oregon Department of Agriculture have already taken steps to protect pollinators from pesticides, including neonicotinoids. State restrictions on pesticides should be based on science and evidence; this bill is based on neither.

Read more

]]> Thu, 6 Mar 2025 23:02:39 GMT Oppose HB 2746 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508638 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508638 VOTE NO on HB 2746

HB 2746 – Likely Violates Oregon’s Constitution

An identical effort during the 2023 Legislature did not move forward, in part due to questions about language that compels speech and, potentially violates Article I, section 8, of Oregon’s Constitution.

Read more

]]> Thu, 6 Mar 2025 22:59:23 GMT Coalition Concerns about HB 3106 - House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508637 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508637 February 26, 2025

Co-Chairs Helm and Owens, Vice-Chair Finger McDonald, and Committee Members:

The undersigned organizations represent various industries and water-related efforts within Oregon’s natural resource sector, including a large proportion of the regulated community, which is impacted by state-level water data and associated policies. We would like to express our concerns with HB 3106 and DEQ’s ongoing effort to create a statewide “water data portal” for use by state agencies and others. While we appreciate and support the idea of having a centralized portal for ease of access to Oregon’s water data, we urge you to reconsider having DEQ host and implement this project. Instead, we would like to see this effort hosted and led by Oregon State University’s Institute for Water and Watersheds, the state’s water resources research institute and one of 54 such centers in the U.S.

Read more

]]> Thu, 6 Mar 2025 22:53:15 GMT The OAN opposes Senate Bill 427 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508636 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508636 Good afternoon Chair Golden, Vice-Chair Nash and members of the Committee.

My name is Steve Shropshire. I’m appearing today on behalf of the Oregon Association of Nurseries, which represents the state’s largest sector of agriculture, with over $1 billion in annual sales.

I have been an Oregon water lawyer for more than 25 years. I have filed and litigated countless water right transfers during that time.

The OAN’s members rely on the water right transfer process to efficiently manage water use and to secure additional water supplies when new water rights are not available.

The OAN opposes Senate Bill 427.

Read more

]]> Thu, 6 Mar 2025 22:44:56 GMT Protections for Farmworkers in Oregon https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508250 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508250 Oregon has a robust system of farmworker rights and protections, more stringent and comprehensive than almost any other state. These rights and actions have been recognized over several decades of legislative actions, agency rules, and court decisions. Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:55:00 GMT Concerns on HB 2803 – Proposed 135% increase to water transaction fees included in GRB https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508249 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508249 February 20, 2025

To: The Joint Committee On Ways and Means Subcommittee On Natural Resources

RE: Concerns on HB 2803 – Proposed 135% increase to water transaction fees included in GRB

Co-Chair Senator Frederick, Co-Chair Representative Levy, and Members of the Subcommittee:

We collectively represent the largest sectors of agricultural, municipal, and industry related water users.

The members of our respective associations provide a myriad of vital economic and social benefits, including quality food, reliable drinking water, family-wage jobs, and other important services from entities throughout Oregon who rely on water. Efficient, timely, and cost-effective processing of transfers and other water management transactions are critical to every sector of water use.

We are gravely concerned about HB 2803, which would increase the Oregon Water Resources Department’s (OWRD) existing transaction fees by 135%. This includes virtually every type of transaction through the Department, including transfers (out of stream and instream, temporary and permanent), which are crucial water management tools for every sector in Oregon. In a water system where new water rights are largely unavailable, moving water between users or places is the most efficient and often the only way to meet water needs. Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:47:27 GMT Testimony on Senate Bill 427 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508247 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508247 February 21, 2025
Senate Committee on Natural Resources and Wildlife
Testimony on Senate Bill 427

Chair Golden, Vice-Chair Nash, Senator Girod, Senator Prozanski, Senator Taylor:

We are writing to voice our strong opposition to Senate Bill 427. We are a diverse group of water users from Oregon’s agricultural and public water supplier communities with a common goal: to advocate for common sense water policies that move Oregon’s economy, communities, and environment toward a secure water future. As we head into a future where new water rights are no longer available, the water right transfer process will provide crucial flexibility for water right holders to manage existing water rights more efficiently. Senate Bill 427 will establish a sweeping new transfer standard that will significantly slow the transfer review process and stymie water management flexibility and water use efficiency for farms, ranches, irrigation districts, special districts, and cities
across the state. Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:42:46 GMT HB3419-3 Ag Coalition Testimony https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508246 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508246 Dear Co-Chair Helm, Co-Chair Owens, Vice-Chair Finger McDonald, and Members of the Committee:

Our organizations collectively represent the most significant sectors of Oregon’s agricultural community. Our members produce food and fiber in every county in the state, and all rely—at varying levels—on adequate and timely irrigation to sustain local economies, maintain viable farm operations, and contribute to food production at the local, regional, national, and international levels.

We appreciate the opportunity to share our concerns regarding HB 3419 and the -3 amendments. Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:37:28 GMT Oppose HB 3187 – Creates Legal Uncertainty for Employers and Employees https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508245 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508245 Unlike a majority of other states Oregon protects all workers 18 and older from discrimination, while federal law designates those 40 and older as a protected class. HB 3187 expands the definition of discrimination using vague and ambiguous language, making it difficult for employers to determine whether neutral employment factors—such as salary, experience, and tenure—can be lawfully considered in hiring, promotions, and layoffs without risking discrimination lawsuits. Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:31:40 GMT Support SB 779: Maintain the AgriStress Helpline for Oregon into Perpetuity https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508244 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=508244 February 20, 2025
Senate Committee on Early Childhood and Behavioral Health

In 2023 it was shared with members of the Legislature, that in the United States, suicide rates among farmers, ranchers and other agricultural managers are almost 58% greater than any other occupation. Particularly rural men over the age of 49, loggers, commercial fishers, farmers and ranchers. Key factors contributing to preventable deaths include financial losses, chronic illness, work-life imbalance, societal stigmas and the physical and social barriers to access mental health services. Additionally, suicide rates in Oregon are higher than the national average.

In 2023, the Legislature passed a bill to allocate $300,000 from the general fund to support implementing the AgriStress Helpline, a free and confidential crisis/support line available 24/7, with interpretation services provided in 180 languages. The AgriStress Hotline specialists have supplemental training to understand the culture, values,
stressors, and lived experiences of agriculture workers.

Now, the Legislature has the opportunity to pass SB 779 to Maintain the AgriStress Helpline for Oregon into perpetuity. Read more

]]> Mon, 24 Feb 2025 18:25:51 GMT Concerns on HB 2803 – Proposed 135% increase to water transaction fees https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507990 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507990 To: The House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water

RE: Concerns on HB 2803 – Proposed 135% increase to water transaction fees

Co-Chair Helm, Co-Chair Owens, Vice-Chair Finger McDonald and Members of the Committee: 

We collectively represent the largest sectors of agricultural, municipal, and industry related water users.  The members of our respective associations provide a myriad of vital economic and social benefits, including quality food, reliable drinking water, family-wage jobs, and other important services from entities throughout Oregon who rely on water.  Efficient, timely, and cost-effective processing of transfers and other water management transactions are critical to every sector of water use.   

We are gravely concerned about HB 2803, which would increase the Oregon Water Resources Department’s (OWRD) existing transaction fees by 135%.  This includes virtually every type of transaction through the Department, including transfers (out of stream and instream, temporary and permanent), which are crucial water management tools for every sector in Oregon.  In a water system where new water rights are largely unavailable, moving water between users or places is the most efficient and often the only way to meet water needs.  Read more

]]> Tue, 18 Feb 2025 00:13:24 GMT Testimony before the House Committee on Labor & Workplace Standards House Bill 3142 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507845 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507845 Testimony before the House Committee on Labor & Workplace Standards
House Bill 3142 - Exempts employers of noncitizens in agricultural labor who are not eligible for unemployment insurance benefits from liability for contributions related to that labor.

By Jeff Stone, Executive Director, Oregon Association of Nurseries
February 12, 2025

View testimony

]]> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 15:38:19 GMT Testimony before the Senate Committee on Labor and Business Senate Bill 622 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507844 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507844 Testimony before the Senate Committee on Labor and Business Senate Bill 622 - Exempts employers of noncitizens in agricultural labor who are not eligible for unemployment insurance benefits from liability for contributions related to that labor.

By Jeff Stone, Executive Director, Oregon Association of Nurseries
February 12, 2025 

View testimony

]]> Wed, 12 Feb 2025 15:33:39 GMT GR Committee Meeting: 2/12/2025 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507835 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507835 The OAN Government Relations Committee meets regularly for issue updates and visits with elected officials and decision makers. Members are welcome to attend the meeting and/or join the committee.  GR Committee Meeting Packet

If you have questions, or would like to join the committee, please contact Jeff Stone at JStone@OAN.org or 503-682-5089.

]]> Tue, 11 Feb 2025 22:28:07 GMT VOTE NO on SB 916 and HB 3434 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507834 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507834 VOTE NO on SB 916 and HB 3434
Protect Oregon’s Unemployment Insurance Benefits

Employers pay 100% of unemployment taxes. Public employers, including cities, counties and school districts, typically reimburse the state for benefits paid to former employees. The increased costs of providing unemployment benefits for workers on strike would be spread among all employers and local taxpayers.  Read the letter

]]> Tue, 11 Feb 2025 22:15:38 GMT Support for HB 2166, Economic Competitiveness of Oregon Agriculture https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507632 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507632 Thank you for the opportunity to express our support for HB 2166. As representatives of Oregon’s farmers, ranchers, and foresters, we are deeply committed to the long-term health and viability of the state’s agricultural industry and the broader natural resources sector. We commend the Legislature for taking this essential step toward a better collective understanding the complex challenges facing Oregon’s agricultural producers. Read more

]]> Tue, 4 Feb 2025 18:16:21 GMT Agricultural Overtime in Oregon - Employer Pamphlet https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507631 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507631 Download the Ag Overtime employer pamphlet]]> Tue, 4 Feb 2025 18:14:13 GMT 2025 Session Committee Schedule https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507630 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507630 Senate and House Committee Schedules]]> Tue, 4 Feb 2025 18:12:36 GMT Oregon OSHA 2025 Legislative Activities https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507629 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507629 + View Oregon OSHA 2025 Legislative Activities]]> Tue, 4 Feb 2025 18:09:59 GMT Oregon OSHA - Confidentiality LC 0389 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507628 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507628 Under current Oregon law, the identity and information about employees who participate in Oregon OSHA inspections are releasable through a public records request or legal discovery. This issue was raised as an “observation” by federal OSHA during its 2020, 2021, 2022, and 2023 state plan evaluation of Oregon OSHA. Federal OSHA has instructed Oregon OSHA to reconcile this deficiency before this repeat observation becomes a “finding.” Generally, under this state plan evaluation process, any state OSHA plan will receive a “finding,” for any repeat observation not corrected within three evaluation periods. All findings must be corrected by the state plan. If a finding is not corrected, federal OSHA has the authority to take away jurisdiction of any state occupational safety and health plan, including Oregon OSHA. Read more

]]> Tue, 4 Feb 2025 18:02:50 GMT Oregon DEQ 2025-27 Governor’s Recommended Budget Water Quality Programs - Summary https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507627 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507627 DEQ’s Water Quality Program's mission is to protect and improve Oregon's water quality. Protecting Oregon's rivers, lakes, streams and groundwater quality keeps these waters safe for a multitude of beneficial uses such as drinking water, fish habitat, recreation and irrigation. This is accomplished by developing and implementing water quality standards and clean water plans, regulating sewage treatment systems and industrial dischargers, collecting and evaluating water quality data, providing grants and technical assistance to reduce nonpoint pollution sources, and providing loans to communities to build treatment facilities. The program includes four program-specific sections at DEQ Headquarters, water quality sections in three regions, and two monitoring sections at DEQ's laboratory.  Read more

]]> Tue, 4 Feb 2025 18:00:12 GMT No on SB 747 one-pager (Fertilizer Reporting) https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507626 https://www.oan.org/members/blog_view.asp?id=2159173&post=507626 OAN has signed on to a letter opposing SB 747, an extreme and unachievable proposal that reflects a lack of understanding of crop nutrition science and groundwater impacts. The bill proposes a multi-million dollar statewide reporting system for fertilizer use in an effort to “identify persons who are overapplying fertilizer” and impose civil penalties on violators. However, there is a glaring disconnect between the bill’s stated goals and how it proposes to achieve them. 

]]> Tue, 4 Feb 2025 17:56:41 GMT