Oregon validates organic agriculture

Oregon governor Ted Kulongoski issued a proclamation designating Sept. 13-19 as “Organically Grown in Oregon Week”. He also signed a letter-of-intent that paves the way for greater cooperation in the future. The special week was for recognized in 1988, but the proclamation adds to the legitimacy of organic agriculture.
The governor’s proclamation identifies a 5-year period (2004-2009) when the amount of land used for certified organic production went from 31,092 acres to 137,000 acres with 435 certified organic farms. Organic agricultural sales accounted for more than $89 million in farm gate sales in 2008.
Oregon was the first state to adopt statewide organic standards in 1973, the first to publish organic certification standards in 1987 and the first to establish a statewide advocacy group, Oregon Organic Coalition, to assist in promoting the industry.

Pictured: Organically-grown products in Oregon are beginning to receive greater recognition from consumers and government officials including a proclamation by the state’s governor during Organically Grown in Oregon Week.