Oregon's Ag Industry

Oregon’s Ag Industry. I’m Greg Martin with today’s Line On Agriculture.

The 2013 Oregon State of the Agriculture Industry Report is a 55-page document that provide a snapshot of ag’s competitiveness, challenges, and opportunities. Doug Krahmer is chair of the Board of Agriculture.

KRAHMER:  The reason we put this together is to educate our legislators on what’s important to agriculture. In some cases we’re reviewing what we’ve done that’s been good, and in some cases we’re bringing up things that potentially are going to be bad.

The report features ten key issues critical to Oregon’s agricultural producers and processors. Each area needs attention from decision makers.

KRAHMER:  We have the ability to address those issues, but it takes money. We can’t address those issues without the adequate funding that gets given to us.

The report also draws comparisons between agriculture in Oregon and its neighboring states and points out that Oregon lags the others in several key areas. Krahmer says the reports which are mandated by law, have helped raise the board’s profile.

KRAHMER:  The last two reports have been well received by the legislature. I believe our legislature is starting to take notice of these reports as they come through now.

Krahmer says these biennial industry reports are one of the most important documents and activities undertaken by the Board of Agriculture.

KRAHMER:  When it comes to the legislative arena and getting help to solve our problems, this report is what we rely on to inform our legislators what it is we need.

That’s today’s Line On Agriculture. I’m Greg Martin on the Ag Information Network.