This week (September 16-22) marks the 30th anniversary of Organically Grown in Oregon week. The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) sends congratulations to our organic farmers and ranchers for their contributions to the agricultural community and the state’s economy. Oregon ranks fourth in the nation for sales of organic products, valued at nearly $351 million in 2016. “Oregon is blessed to have a diversity of crops and production systems across the state and our organic sector continues to grow giving Oregonians more choice than ever before,” said ODA Director, Alexis Taylor. “The statistics show 91% of Oregon households purchase organic products over the course of a year and we are experiencing a 13% increase in the number of certified organic farms statewide.” Oregon is home to 461 certified organic farms, operating on about 195,000 acres across the state. The top two certified commodities sold in Oregon were potatoes with sales valued at $39.2 million and dry hay with sales valued at $25.2 million. Oregon Governor Kate Brown renewed a proclamation recognizing Organically Grown in Oregon Week. In the proclamation she acknowledges the state’s unique stature as a leader in organic agriculture, with the first organic standards legislation dating back to 1973. For a full list of Organically Grown in Oregon Week supporters, member businesses, as well as a list of scheduled events please visit http://www.oregonorganiccoalition.org/
