The Director's Office

• Provides oversight of all department functions while working with the Governor's Office, legislature, other state/federal agencies, and agricultural/consumer groups to carry out the state's agricultural policy.
• Assists industry groups in financial need by disbursing specific funds earmarked for economically distressed producers, when money is made available.
• Provides administrative support for the State Board of Agriculture.
• Oversees the Farm Mediation Program, which offers counseling and conflict resolution for hundreds of private parties each year on agricultural-related issues. The program also helps growers find grants and financial resources, risk management resources, and related assistance.
• Supervises price negotiations, with assistance from ODA divisions, by overseeing the negotiation process between buyers and sellers of agricultural commodities. Assistance in price negotiation is now provided to the Perennial Ryegrass Bargaining Council, the Tall Fescue Bargaining Council, and the Dungeness Crab Bargaining Council.
• Works with the agriculture industry and other state agencies to advance renewable energy. This includes educating and assisting growers on available incentives related to renewable energy technologies and projects.
• Participates in statewide climate change activities, including participation in the Oregon Global Warming Commission.

The Information Office

• Serves as the agency's first point of contact for external customers.
• Provides media relations and public information services.
• Produces publications and other informational/educational materials used by public/industry groups and individuals.
• Coordinates ODA's Web site and provides assistance to agency staff on Web-related issues.

The Administrative Services section

• Provides internal support for ODA in the areas of financial management, personnel, licensing, purchasing, and computer information systems.
• Develops and manages ODA's biennial budget. Provides payment on agency bills and accounts, and monitors agency spending.
• Recruits, hires, and trains staff for ODA.
• Provides building maintenance and fleet management.
• Maintains ODA information systems through project management and systems development.

The Laboratory Services section

• Provides laboratory chemistry and microbiology analysis for ODA in the areas of food, dairy, shellfish, foliage, soil, fertilizer, water, and various products destined for export/import.

• Distributed funds to economically distressed coastal salmon fishers in 2008. These emergency funds provided some relief to families impacted by harvest restrictions for ocean salmon.
• Coordinated ODA response to flood events in 2007 by serving as a central point of communication for both agency personnel and other participating state/federal agencies.
• Participated, along with specific ODA divisions, in several statewide emergency preparedness activities. Monitored ODA's performance in these exercises to improve agency's emergency response plans.

• Educated growers about incentives available for energy efficiency improvement and renewable energy technologies.
• Recruited and worked with renewable energy companies while acting as liaison between processors and growers in discussions about feedstock production.
• Conducted analysis, education, and outreach on state and federal renewable energy policies, fuel standards, food price issues, and global agricultural production.
• Helped growers apply for grants and other financial assistance to implement projects.
• Tracked renewable energy opportunities and energy efficiency technologies for agriculture.

• Collaborated with ODA's Agricultural Development and Marketing Division and other department staff to provide supervised price negotiations involving grass seed growers and fishermen with buyers of their products. This unique process affords participants anti-trust immunity in pricing, ensures that the interests of all the parties are represented, and provides a balanced perspective to the price of these farm and ocean products.
• Provided counseling and assistance this biennium to private parties in dispute regarding agricultural issues. Most cases in this biennium related to nuisance issues, contracts, and property disputes. For cases that went to mediation, more than 80 percent reached settlement agreements.

• Responded to more than 500 media interview requests and more than 5,000 telephone or e-mail requests for information by the public in 2007-08.
• Produced numerous publications, including news releases, ODA's "Story of the Week", the Agriculture Quarterly, and the first-ever Oregon Agripedia-combining agricultural statistics, a compilation of agricultural laws and regulations, and a comprehensive directory of agricultural resources in one publication.
• Monitored ODA's Web site and helped ODA divisions make improvements in the delivery of timely information via the Internet.
• Facilitated ODA's adoption of the state's Plain Language initiative. Working with the agency's Plain Language Coordinator, identified areas of improvement, provided special instruction to employees, and adopted an agency-wide plan.

• Processed a large amount of hops and onion samples simultaneously in a four-week period for pesticide investigations while continuing to sample and test without interruption for all other ODA programs.
• Maintained operations within budget parameters through a continual review process that meets client needs while covering costs.

• Provide leadership to the department through strategic responses to emergency and emerging issues.
• Increase Oregonians' understanding of the role agriculture plays in the state through public activities.
• Promote human resource policies that encourage and recognize hard work, allow employees to meet their full potential, provide for a positive work environment, and provide for a diversified workforce.
• Continue using technology to streamline business and regulatory processes that help employees by making information more readily accessible.
• Provide adequate levels of administrative support to operating programs in achieving program goals and objectives.

"It is reasonable for ODA customers to expect and receive excellent service from our agency. In order for us to meet that expectation, there needs to be a solid support system that allows a continuity of business." Katy Coba ODA director

Market development and product promotion

• Collaborates with industry and other ODA divisions to develop appropriate certification standards and other value-added processes that enhance the marketability of Oregon agricultural products.
• Conducts an internationally-recognized market development program for Oregon agricultural producers and processors, with special focus on primary markets in the Pacific Rim, Europe, and the Americas.
• Conducts targeted trade missions to key export markets, attends trade shows, conducts technical workshops to introduce Oregon products to buyers, and hosts inbound trade missions to Oregon-giving potential international buyers an opportunity to see local production and processing.
• Monitors and relays technical information to the industry regarding marketplace certification requirements, ensuring a smooth shipment of Oregon products.
• Enhances market demand for local products through farm-to-school efforts and direct marketing channels.
• Provides one-on-one assistance to Oregon companies needing market assistance and/or product development and promotion.

Industry development and cluster assistance

• Works to attract new agricultural companies to Oregon, retain existing companies, and expand existing Oregon companies by finding solutions and eliminating barriers.
• Interacts daily with Oregon's rural economies, providing innovative problem solving programs that blend both development and marketing in appropriate measures.
• Provides technical expertise and know-how in partnership with Oregon State University at the Food Innovation Center. This multi-disciplinary collaboration is unique in the US and is a powerful tool for Oregon.
• Works closely with the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department (OECDD), the Governor's Economic Revitalization Teams (ERT), and a variety of port and municipal-based economic development organizations throughout the state.

Commodity commission oversight

• Works closely with and provides administrative oversight to Oregon's 26 agricultural commodity commissions.

• Led and participated in more than 50 international trade missions and trade shows with or on behalf of Oregon agriculture, promoting Oregon products and establishing connections between buyer and seller. Successful efforts include nursery stock to Japan and China, wine to China, Christmas trees to Japan, Dungeness crab to Taiwan, and a variety of other Oregon products to Pacific Rim and European markets. The results add millions of dollars to Oregon's annual economy.
• Established a first-of-its-kind partnership with Chinese officials to operate a food logistics center in the southern city of Zhuhai that facilitates the movement of food products between China and Oregon. This facility offers laboratory testing capability, warehousing of imported food products, and a product showcase that allows Oregon and other western states to feature targeted food products.
• Hosted several inbound trade missions that brought buyers from other countries to see the production and processing of Oregon agricultural products, resulting in prospective export sales to such challenging but important markets as Korea and Taiwan.
• Secured funding to examine non-tariff trade barriers to Oregon agriculture and develop a systematic way of overcoming them. This study will be of special benefit as Oregon expands its export efforts in China.
• Provided export readiness workshops for Oregon companies, helping them prepare for their first foray into the international marketplace.
• Participated in International Marketing Partners-a coalition that includes the Oregon Economic and Community Development Department, Travel Oregon, Port of Portland, the Portland Development Commission, and others to coordinate trade efforts and identify key opportunities for the state.

• Partnered with Oregon Department of Human Services to administer the WIC/Senior (Women with Infants and Children) FDNP (Farm Direct Nutrition Program) to help nutritionally needy families and seniors purchase locally produced fresh fruits and vegetables directly from authorized producers at farm stands and farmers' markets. USDA has expanded the program to include grocery stores and farm stands offering fresh local produce.
• Created a new position of farm-to-school program manager to increase use of Oregon fresh and processed foods in the state's school feeding programs. ADMD works with farmers, food processors, distributors, and school district food service staff as well as existing farm-to-school groups and programs to get more nutritious, and locally produced foods into Oregon schools.
• Secured funding to develop the Buy Local Program, a Web-based resource that provides detailed information of local food products, who produces or processes them, and contact information. Potential plans include interactive Web tools to connect buyer and seller.

• Worked with ODA's Commodity Inspection Division to implement the National Organic Program certification in Oregon by developing a manual for audits. Training and certification procedures are near completion and USDA should accredit the program in the second quarter of 2009.
• Secured funding to conduct post-harvest research to help Oregon fruit and vegetable growers. The research will identify techniques to keep produce both fresh and in good condition.
• Responded to industry's critical need for rendering facilities in Oregon. The closure of Oregon's few remaining facilities left the state's slaughtering industry, livestock community, grocery stores, and others with few options to process or discard animal by-products. Working with the Oregon Solutions team, ADMD was able to develop strategies to restore rendering capability in the state.
• Drafted criteria for a Marionberry certification program administered by ODA's Commodity Inspection Division to help preserve the identity of Oregon grown Marionberries.
• Continued working with Oregon's strawberry industry to find new markets and products necessary to reverse the decline in production.
• Hosted an Internet marketing workshop to teach Oregon agricultural companies and organizations about new media strategies that promote product and foster sales.

• Expand collaboration with other agencies and organizations to provide meaningful certification programs that have value in the marketplace.
• Increase offshore trading opportunities for Oregon exporters, particularly in the key markets of Japan, Korea, China, and Taiwan.
• Expand direct marketing opportunities for Oregon agricultural producers.
• Ensure efficient operation of Oregon's 26 commodity commissions.
• Work closely with industry to take advantage of targeted opportunities (domestically and internationally) that add value to Oregon agriculture.

"The services and advantage we provide enhances the movement of products into the marketplace and sustains Oregon's economy." Gary Roth Agricultural Development & Marketing administrator

The Animal Health Program

• Administers, through the state veterinarian, efforts to prevent, detect, control, and eradicate animal diseases, working with federal and private veterinarians throughout Oregon.
• Issues import permits and processes certificates of veterinary inspection required for nearly all animals entering the state, and ensures the animals are disease-free.
• Monitors animal movement, traces disease outbreaks, and employs necessary control measures to protect both humans and animals.
• Cooperates with other agencies and organizations to control diseases, including USDA, Oregon State University, state public health officials, the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, and the Oregon Veterinary Medical Association.

The Livestock Identification Program

• Records more than 11,000 livestock brands and standardizes livestock ownership markings to verify ownership. This deters theft, helps track disease outbreaks, and helps return lost or estray animals to their owners.
• Inspects annually more than 1.1 million cattle and horses when they leave the state or when there is a change of ownership. This ensures the fair and honest marketing of animals.
• Assists local and state law enforcement in livestock theft investigations.

The Feeds Program

• Registers and tests commercial feed products to assure that animal feed is safe and is in compliance with state and federal regulations.
• Helps USDA regulate feed components and enforce the ban on ruminant protein in ruminant feed to prevent the spread diseases such as BSE (mad cow disease).

Other responsibilities

• Partners with USDA and local government to administer a wildlife damage control program that includes such livestock and crop predators as wolves and feral swine.
• Issues permits for animals defined under Oregon's Exotic Animal Law and inspects holding facilities for these animals to ensure public safety.

• Provided surveillance for avian influenza (AI) in commercial birds and responded to reports of potential AI outbreaks, which turned out to be negative for the AI strain of concern. AI outreach and education was provided to both commercial poultry owners and owners of non-commercial birds.
• Conducted testing and took steps to ensure Oregon remains free of bovine tuberculosis and brucellosis, two diseases that can be transmitted to humans and cripple productivity of livestock.
• Tightened rules for imported cattle by requiring additional testing of bulls for trichomoniasis, a disease that reduces reproduction in cattle.
• Strengthened response plans for several infectious foreign animal diseases to ensure rapid response and eradication of any emerging disease outbreak.

• Responded quickly to flood events in Columbia and Tillamook counties in 2007 and assessed the damage to livestock and pets. When it was determined there was a feed shortage, AHID located suppliers to deliver emergency rations.
• Established veterinary response teams for local emergencies not limited to animal disease events. ODA authorizes about 1,400 private veterinary practitioners throughout Oregon to assist during emergencies.
• Participated in disaster training and drills, including two major emergency exercises (Top-Off 4 and an emergency exercise involving the Umatilla Army Depot). These drills tested the ability to assemble veterinarians and deploy emergency teams.
• Established an emergency response and evacuation plan for all animals, including pets, as directed by the 2007 Oregon Legislature. Working with Oregon Emergency Management (OEM), and individual counties, AHID developed the guidelines in case a major disaster dislocates or imperils pets and other animals.

• Participated in the recall and investigation of pet food tainted by melamine, a non-food chemical ingredient imported from China and responsible for animal deaths nationwide. AHID located, collected, and destroyed tainted animal feed in Oregon.
• Issued registrations within Oregon to allow the sale of camelina meal-a bio-diesel crop by-product that can be a source of protein for livestock. This allows better utilization of a biofuels crop as the alternative fuel industry develops in Oregon. AHID has developed and is enforcing strict guidelines on the percentage of camelina mixed in feeds as livestock health can be adversely impacted.
• Performed BSE (mad cow disease) feeding ban inspections at all feed ingredient manufacturers in Oregon, and inspected several dairies and trucking firms. This continues the nationwide inspection protocol developed by FDA in response to earlier detections of BSE in the US.

• Investigated 100 percent of all livestock theft reports, resulting in many instances of restitution and/or criminal convictions.
• Adopted a new brand inspection fee in cooperation with the livestock industry, allowing the program to respond to industry needs for service at an acceptable level despite increased costs and a decline in statewide cow herd numbers.
• Cooperated with other agencies and individuals to handle estray livestock, either returning lost animals to their rightful owner or finding new homes for animals through an auction.

• Continue to monitor important animal-to-human pathogens associated with livestock industries, particularly avian influenza.
• Continue control efforts for trichomoniasis and Johne's disease in cattle.
• Maintain Oregon's disease-free status in state-federal cooperative disease control programs, including those for tuberculosis and brucellosis.
• Continue training and exercises for deputy state veterinarians (private practitioners enlisted to serve in response teams for various emergencies).
• Maintain a comprehensive emergency disease management plan in coordination with other state and federal agencies.
• Enhance and improve all emergency response plans, as needed, by participating in drills and exercises with other jurisdictions and agencies.
• Improve AHID response to disease or disaster emergencies by locating animals that might be affected. In particular, the use of handheld computers will enhance animal identification in the field and improve the ability for livestock owners to conduct business in an auction market.
• Develop long-term strategies for the Brand Inspection Program, its priorities, and funding.
• Implement new testing technologies to improve accuracy and efficiency of services provided by the Animal Health Laboratory.
• Continue cooperative efforts with local governments to develop and implement animal evacuation plans to be activated in natural and man-made disasters.

"One single outbreak of a virulent foreign animal disease could cost the state millions of dollars. That's why prevention and being able to respond quickly are so important to Oregon's well being." Don Hansen Animal Health & Identification Division dministrator and state veterinarian

The Shipping Point Inspection Program

• Provides on-site, voluntary fee-for-service programs, including traditional inspection and certification, to ensure that fruit, vegetable, and nut crops meet customer and marketplace standards.
• Offers USDA Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) and Good Handling Practices (GHP) audits, providing producers and handlers an official third party verification of their efforts to reduce microbial contamination in fresh fruits and vegetables. This helps ensure a safe food product to the consumer.
• Provides official third party verification programs for identity preserved products, food security audits, and audits of other practices at the request of industry.
• Provides training and information to industry, often as part of alternative inspection in which industry employees conduct inspections. CID oversees these alternative inspection programs.

The Seed Program

• Tests official seed samples to ensure foreign and domestic requirements are met.
• Ensures proper labeling of seed to ensure consumer and industry protection.
• Investigates producer claims of non-payment by dealers and enforces Oregon law that requires payment within the contractually specified time.
• Provides inspection and certification of forage products as weed-free, adding value to Oregon hay and straw while preventing the spread of noxious weeds.

The Plant Health Program

• Provides testing for viruses, bacteria, fungi, and nematodes, and conducts field inspection services to meet interstate and international phytosanitary requirements. This includes laboratory testing of official samples of seed and plant material to facilitate movement of Oregon commodities.
• Conducts important surveys required by USDA and foreign countries to detect the presence of pests and diseases that could result in quarantine of Oregon products. These include surveys for such critical pests as potato cyst nematodes and Phytophthora ramorum, the cause of sudden oak death.
• Works cooperatively with ODA's Plant Division, USDA's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS), and other agencies/institutions to provide expertise on emerging plant health issues.

• Inspected 3.3 billion pounds of produce for processing and 1.5 billion pounds of fresh Oregon fruits, vegetables, and tree nuts.
• Certified more than 321 million pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables for export to 52 countries, including more than 14 million pounds of apples, 86 million pounds of hazelnuts, 38 million pounds of onions, 95 million pounds of pears, and 80 million pounds of potatoes. This represents more than a 5 percent increase from the previous year.
• Sampled, graded, and certified more than 45,000 bales of hops in 2007 for Oregon's hop industry.
• Certified 790,526 tons of alfalfa and grass seed straw for export, providing a cost effective alternative to field burning.
• Inspected 17,472 acres of vegetable seed, mint, allium, and potato fields for pests of regulatory concern to facilitate export.
• Performed official testing and conducted surveys for federally regulated pests such as Phytophthora ramorum, potato cyst nematodes, and Karnal bunt so that nurseries, and potato and wheat growers can continue shipping products as pest-free.
• Performed official virus testing for nurseries shipping plant products, such as blueberries and stone fruits, to other states and international markets.
• Conducted approximately 130 industry trainings with about 800 attendees.
• Attended the equivalent of approximately 300 trainings to maintain and increase staff proficiencies. These training sessions develop and maintain necessary program and staff credentials.

• Provided audits under the Federal/State National Auditing Program for Good Handling Practices (GHP) and Good Agricultural Practices (GAP). A total of 274 audits (25 percent of all audits nationwide) were performed on facilities and farms with more than 56,000 acres certified for GAP.
• Secured specialty crop block grant funds to help Oregon producers and packers comply with the USDA GAP/GHP Program.
• Conducted an identity-preserved program to help industry gain access to and establish an advantage in national and international markets. Specifically, worked with Oregon's Marionberry industry to protect its unique product by ensuring a certified Oregon Marionberry is truly an Oregon Marionberry.
• Conducted Country of Origin Labeling (COOL) audits for fruit, vegetable, and seafood industries as required by federal law.

• Sampled more than 9,000 lots of seed for official testing and verification required for phytosanitary export certification. CID sampled 981 lots for ISTA (International Seed Testing Association) testing-an internationally recognized process required by many foreign markets.
• Certified more than 9,400 acres under the Weed-Free Forage and Straw Program.
• Administered Oregon's Sod Quality Seed and Endophyte Forage Seed Tagging programs. More than 128,000 tags are issued annually to certify seed is free of endophyte fungus, and verify that grass seed meets Oregon sod quality standards. Both programs are voluntary and are used as marketing tools to increase the value of Oregon seed.

• Integrated ODA's Plant Health Program & Laboratory into CID, providing a greater measure of seamless service that includes sampling, testing, and certification of agricultural products.
• Expanded alternative inspection programs used in Oregon hazelnut and onion industries to include cherries and pears. Product integrity is maintained and services are more efficient due to this oversight program.
• Partnered with the Oregon Department of Corrections to implement an inmate work program. Under ODA oversight, an inmate crew and corrections officer is supplied by Snake River Correctional Institution, and performs various inspection duties at a local potato processing plant.
• Provided assistance to other ODA programs, taking advantage of the multi-task capabilities of employees strategically located around the state. Examples include sampling plant material for laboratory analysis as part of a pesticide investigation as well as trapping and surveying for agricultural pests, including grasshoppers in Eastern Oregon.

• Attain certification under the National Organic Program, at industry's request.
• Provide additional value added certification programs for Oregon products that meet industry demands. Increase global consumer confidence in Oregon agriculture through regulatory and service programs.
• Expand opportunities for producers, packers, and processors to receive multiple services-including inspection, verification, and certification-in one on-site visit by a CID inspector.
• Provide one-stop sampling, testing, and certification to the seed industry to help market products domestically and internationally in a timely manner.
• Create a manual for Oregon producers and handlers to meet customer-driven retail requirements for certification of processes. Areas addressed will include Good Agricultural Practices, Good Handling Practices, and Sustainable Agriculture.
• Develop innovative testing methods to meet the constantly evolving phytosanitary requirements of Oregon customers. Maintain or reduce testing costs while improving the turnaround time for results

"The complexity, retention, and expansion of domestic and international markets are constant challenges for Oregon's agriculture industry. Our job is to partner with industry to help fill its needs and achieve its marketing goals."  Jim Cramer Commodity Inspection Division administrator

The Manufacturing and Retail Food Program area

• Inspects establishments engaged in food manufacturing, baked-good production, and retail food sales by focusing on risk factors such as employee hygiene, time and temperature controls, and food sources.
• Performs annual equipment testing and calibration for food manufacturers.
• Conducts plan review and provides technical support for food establishments that have yet to become licensed, including label review and comment.
• Offers food safety expertise and oversight to all food establishments (excluding restaurants, which are handled by Public Health Division, and meat slaughtering/processing plants, which are handled by USDA).
• Provides licenses for retail food establishments (grocery stores), food manufacturers, food warehouses, bakeries, non-alcoholic beverage plants, and domestic kitchens.

The Dairy, Meat, and Eggs Program area

• Inspects dairy farms twice a year and dairy plants four times a year to ensure consumers receive safe and wholesome fluid milk and milk products.
• Performs inspections, sampling, and equipment checks in accordance with the Pasteurized Milk Ordinance, allowing fluid milk and milk products to be sold in other states.
• Inspects and oversees mobile and custom meat slaughtering establishments, retail markets, and pet food manufacturers. FSD also visits USDA-inspected meat plants annually to confirm federal inspectors are on site.
• Provides monthly grading services for Oregon egg processors and egg grading in retail food establishments every four years. Eggs are the only food type for which FSD provides quality assurance rather than safety control.

Seafood and Shellfish Program area

• Provides highly technical scientific measurement and evaluation of shellfish growing waters and harvested meats in cooperation with FDA and the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW). Develops and monitors management plans specific to each growing area that detail toxin limits and water conditions essential for safe shellfish.
• Collects samples and conducts tests (through the ODA Regulatory Laboratory) of shellfish to determine the presence of marine toxins such as domoic acid or paralytic shellfish poisoning (PSP). These toxins can cause severe illness in humans. FSD issues closures for commercial and recreational harvesters as needed.
• Reviews Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) programs and processes required of seafood processors to verify the proper steps are being taken to prevent food-borne illness.

FSD provides other services and expertise to help the industry and the public.

• Contracts with FDA to perform 750 inspections in Oregon food establishments under FDA jurisdiction. These are establishments with products that enter interstate commerce.
• Supervises, in collaboration with Public Health Division, Oregon's drinking water program in establishments licensed by FSD. Inspectors conduct sanitary surveys and provide technical expertise to food processors that use private water sources.
• Works closely with Oregon farmers' markets to address sanitation and food safety by training vendors at regional workshops.

• Performed 12,463 inspections of 8,919 licensed food establishments, including retail stores, food processors, bakeries, warehouses, and locker plants in 2007 with a similar number in 2008. These inspections lower the number of food safety incidents in Oregon and ensure safe food for the public.
• Performed 750 contract inspections for FDA and 50 contract audits in each of 2007 and 2008. Providing these services for federally licensed facilities ensures a uniform response to food safety oversight in Oregon.
• Performed 460 inspections of dairy producers, Grade A dairy plants, and dairy products plants in 2007 with a similar number in 2008. Also collected more than 3,931 milk samples tested for antibiotics, bacteria, and standards of identity.
• Completed pre-season samples of crab viscera for domoic acid in each of the past two years, which helps determine the appropriate opening date of the crab season.
• Collected 1,098 water samples and 625 shellfish samples, and analyzed for bacteria and marine biotoxins in 2007-08.

• Played a major role in the 2007 national recall of Castleberry products (chili and related products) due to possible botulism contamination. FSD's quick response and removal of products from the food supply resulted in an award of merit from FDA.
• Responded immediately to food establishments devastated by a coastal storm in December 2007, providing vital information to emergency response officials with details about conditions and urgent needs in the affected area.
• Participated with FDA, the Oregon Public Health Division, and more than 40 other states to identify and eliminate the cause of a salmonella outbreak in 2008, ultimately traced to imported peppers. FSD identified the source of 11 Oregon cases associated with the national outbreak. Oregon was one of the first states to provide important information implicating peppers.
• Worked with FDA and all 50 states in a 2008 nationwide sampling of milk products from China possibly contaminated with the industrial chemical melamine. This effort helped assure Oregonians that the state's dairy products were free of melamine and safe to consume.

• Developed an online and telephone consumer complaint system to rapidly respond to food safety complaints, questions, and concerns. FSD responds to more than 4,300 complaints annually.

• Maintain a high level of emergency preparedness since so many food safety issues require quick and effective local response.
• Continue collaboration with state and federal agencies, organizations, and industry to reduce the likelihood of a food related bio-terrorism event.
• Train new staff in all aspects of food safety to provide consistency in ODA's application of food safety laws and administrative rules.
• Establish an import sampling program to provide additional assurance that food imported to the US is safe for Oregon consumers.
• Update Oregon food safety statutes and administrative rules, many of which are 70 years old and do not reflect today's complex and sophisticated food safety arena.
• Work with Oregon farmers' markets to fully integrate them into ODA's food safety program.
• Work toward a totally automated and integrated system to electronically transfer fieldwork into the Salem office. This includes a potential Web-based system for inspection results that provides industry access to their official files.

"The world of food safety has gone through a tremendous change. The risks we now face are very different from just a few years ago, and so are the responsibilities. Whether a producer, a processor, a retailer, or a consumer, we all have an important role to play in keeping our food safe and wholesome." Vance Bybee Food Safety Division administrator

• Routinely examine approximately 54,000 commercially used weighing and measuring devices for compliance. This helps prevent fraud by ensuring devices used in commerce are accurate and used correctly.
• Conduct audits of packaged products for correct net contents and accurate labeling to assure consumers get what they pay for. This prevents Oregon from becoming a dumping ground for sub-standard product.
• Routinely monitor and screen gasoline and diesel motor fuels sold in Oregon. This assures motorists are getting the correct octane level in the fuel they purchase.
• License and inspect motor fuel dispensers in Oregon for accuracy of the quantity delivered.
• Investigate consumer complaints of discrepancies in weighing and measuring devices, package net contents and labeling, gasoline and diesel quality, and issues related to such goods as firewood.
• Work with industry representatives, retailers, and other interested parties to implement Oregon's first renewable fuel standard, ensuring Oregon consumers receive a quality product.
• Provide legal standards for mass and volume, and provide standards calibration services to industry.

• Completed annual inspections of more than 28,000 retail motor fuel dispensers in Oregon. MSD discovered a small percentage of violations, which ensures that motorists are generally receiving accurate amounts of fuel. Other states with more infrequent inspections have noticed higher rates of violation.
• Screened more than 2,800 gasoline samples in the past fiscal year, to ensure that the over 2 billion gallons of gas and diesel sold annually in the state meet national quality standards. Only 21 samples were found to be in question. Providing an inspection program deters any widespread motor fuel quality problems in Oregon.
• Worked with biodiesel and ethanol production facilities to implement Oregon's Renewable Fuels Standards (RFS) and worked with industry representatives to develop Oregon Administrative Rules required by the RFS.
• Implemented a new RFS requiring gasoline throughout Oregon to contain 10 percent ethanol.
• Helped develop exemptions for the RFS, which include fuel for aviation, marine, and small engine machinery.

• Participated with the National Conference of Weights and Measures (NCWM) and the Western Weights and Measures Association (WWMA) to develop model regulations. Without MSD's participation, laws and rules adopted might not be appropriate for Oregon and could be costly for industry.
• Completed the division's third National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program (NVLAP) on-site audit with zero deficiencies. Oregon is one of only a few states whose metrology laboratory maintains NVLAP Echelon I accreditation for mass calibration. This level of accreditation assures Oregon businesses the MSD Metrology Laboratory is able to perform the high precision weights and measures calibrations required in today's highly technical world.

• Investigated 172 complaints related to firewood quantity, package net contents and labeling requirements, gasoline and diesel quality, and accuracy of weighing and measuring devices in the last fiscal year. Some investigations resulted in enforcement actions up to, and including, referral to the Oregon Department of Justice.
• Conducted training of retailers and manufacturers to ensure correctly measured products. This helps the consumer but also reduces the likelihood of Oregon packaged products being rejected after out-of-state or out-of-country shipping.

• Continue to ensure equity in the marketplace by testing and certifying weighing and measuring devices for accuracy.
• Train MSD staff in new technology and standards for all types of weights and measures issues, including the rapidly changing area of renewable fuels.
• Develop training and a program for testing new alternative energy sources such as compressed natural gas and hydrogen fuels for vehicles. This includes securing the proper equipment for testing.
• Continue ensuring a smooth transition to renewable fuels for Oregon consumers and industry.
• Monitor production and feedstocks at in-state biodiesel production facilities to establish an implementation date for the state's B2 biodiesel requirement. B2 is a blend of 98 percent petroleum diesel fuel and 2 percent biodiesel.
• Work with industry and biodiesel producers to develop testing procedures that ensure fuel quality.
• Continue working with other state agencies to maintain up-to-date online information for non-ethanol gasoline exemptions.
• Secure proper resources to help Oregon industries deal with issues involving products shipped to other states or countries.
• Educate weighing and measuring device service agencies on Oregon's weights and measures regulations.
• Promote consumer and retailer awareness through educational programs on measurement accuracy, labeling requirements, and methods of sale of products.
• Continue developing Measurement Standards Division Web pages to increase information, forms, and services online that assist consumers and businesses, and enhance regulatory streamlining.
• Collaborate with industry to ensure MSD programs maintain a sound financial base.

"With the push for energy independence and use of renewable fuels, it is increasingly important that we maintain a strong motor fuel quality program. As we implement Oregon's renewable fuel standard, it is critical that we continue to assure consumers that the fuel they purchase meets quality standards." Russ Wyckoff Measurement Standards Division administrator

The Water Quality Program
NRD works to improve Oregon's water quality through development and implementation of watershed-based management plans. These plans direct agricultural landowners to take necessary steps to protect water quality throughout the state.

• Oversees a biennial review of agricultural water quality management plans.
• Convenes annually a Water Quality Program advisory committee to provide input on key issues.
• Provides program outreach, monitoring, compliance, and assistance to landowners and local management agencies.
• Works to ensure successful implementation of the Oregon Plan for Salmon and Watersheds by addressing agricultural water quality problems.

The Confined Animal Feeding Operation (CAFO) Program
The CAFO Program operates under a memorandum of agreement with the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) and the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to permit animal feeding operations and achieve compliance with state and federal laws.

• Conducts routine inspections of CAFO facilities to ensure animal waste does not cause water pollution.
• Helps CAFO operators with compliance reporting, record keeping and submission, and operational reviews.
• Provides assistance to permitted facility operators in the development and operation of their Animal Waste Management Plan.

Soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs)
NRD assists soil and water conservation districts (SWCDs) that, in turn, help landowners properly manage Oregon's natural resources.

• Provides administrative oversight and state funding coordination to Oregon's 45 SWCDs.
• Helps SWCDs deliver technical assistance and conservation programs to landowners. This assistance improves water quality conditions for salmon and general watershed health.
• Provides leadership and coordination of the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP), a cooperative program between the state and USDA that improves streamside conditions on agricultural land.
• Supports the state Soil and Water Conservation Commission.

Other programs
NRD addresses a variety of other key natural resource issues by maintaining specific programs and expertise.

• Administers smoke management and research programs, providing coordination and oversight of Willamette Valley field burning.
• Addresses land use issues related to farmland, providing input on policy discussions that could impact Oregon's ability to protect agricultural lands.
• Assists in developing requests for USDA and state weather-related disaster declarations that provide financial assistance for impacted farmers and ranchers.
• Manages oyster plat leasing in state estuaries along the Oregon coast.

• Increased public awareness of the Agricultural Water Quality Program in Oregon through compliance investigations, extensive outreach and education programs, and biennial reviews of Area Plans and Rules.
• Led efforts by SWCDs to enhance landowner participation in the Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP). More than 131 miles of riparian buffers have been installed under the CREP program (primarily streamside planting of trees, shrubs and native vegetation) between October 2007 and October 2008.

• Implemented state water quality laws and the Federal Clean Water Act regulating CAFOs Updated the CAFO permit to meet the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements in the Federal Clean Water Act.
• Registered 580 CAFO operations under Oregon's new CAFO General Permit, which helps protect both groundwater and surface water.
• Maintained a statewide CAFO Program advisory committee of farmers, ranchers, and industry representatives and identified opportunities for improvements.
• Implemented "performance based" CAFO inspections, which improves the relationship between ODA and the regulated community, and helps facilities comply with water quality laws.

• Enabled Oregon's 45 SWCDs to provide technical assistance to landowners by distributing $5 million in state and federal funds under grant agreements for conservation planning, project design, construction inspection, and projects associated with local Agricultural Water Quality Area Management Plans.
• Provided administration of SWCD director elections and training for districts on effective business management, legal compliance, public contracts, and technical assistance delivery to landowners.
• Maintained the SWCD Web site to provide templates, tools, example policies, and publications that support operational reviews.

• Provided oversight of all field burning in the Willamette Valley during the summer burn seasons of 2007 and 2008.
• Provided research funds for alternatives to field burning in 2005-07.
• Maintained the ODA Oregon Weather Center Web page, which contained the daily burn advisory and weather forecast to Willamette Valley grass seed growers.
• Provided meteorological services to Jefferson and Union counties during field burning seasons (local agencies manage programs outside the Willamette Valley).
• Maintained an e-mail subscription service notifying the public of potential field burning in their local area.

• Participated on committees dealing with wind energy facility siting on agricultural land, rural and urban reserves in the Portland Metro area, and urban growth management.
• Helped with regional planning in the Bear Creek Valley and the Portland metro region. This includes the development and evaluation of a report addressing the long-term commercial viability of Metro region agricultural lands.
• Participated in the SB 82 "Big Look" Task Force, which evaluates the statewide land use program, offering perspective on agricultural lands.
• Represented ODA in ongoing efforts to address aggregate mining on agricultural lands.
• Participated with other state agencies to monitor several energy facility siting proposals, including LNG pipelines, power transmission lines, and wind energy facilities.
• Provided technical assistance to farmers, local and regional governments, and state agencies on numerous land use proposals as well as proposed urban growth boundary expansions.

• Continue to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the Water Quality Program.
• Implement agricultural water quality management area plans through education and outreach to agricultural landowners.
• Maintain the inspection, enforcement, outreach, and compliance assistance program for permitted CAFOs.
• Provide leadership for voluntary, incentive-based USDA Farm Bill assistance programs, such as the Oregon Conservation Reserve Enhancement Program (CREP).
• Provide guidance to all 45 SWCDs on effective district operations, long-range business plans, conservation easements, financial management, and legal compliance.
• Continue to provide reliable weather forecasts for the grass seed and dairy industries (forecasts help dairies plan for manure applications), and explore opportunities to provide meteorological services to other agricultural sectors.
• Identify agriculture's role in achieving state air quality goals.

"Helping landowners conserve, protect, and develop natural resources also achieves Oregon's long term natural resource goals of clean water, clean air, and productive land." Ray Jaindl Natural Resources Division administrator

• Register pesticide and fertilizer products in Oregon, which allows the legal sale or distribution and use of these products. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) determines the uses and restrictions of each pesticide product. The Pesticides Division of ODA ensures the information is contained on the product label.
• License pesticide users by assessing their level of knowledge and expertise. This is done through specific written examinations.
• Investigate complaints of alleged pesticide misuse and administer enforcement action when appropriate. Enforcement actions, including civil penalties, play a vital role in deterring unlawful use of pesticides.
• Conduct marketplace inspections of fertilizer products for nutrient analysis and heavy metal content.
• Request special authorizations from EPA for specific pesticide use that is not listed on the label. Considering Oregon's great diversity of crops, exemptions are sometimes necessary to apply products and control potentially devastating pests and diseases.
• Participate as a key member of the Pesticide Analytical Response Center (PARC), which reviews claims of adverse health, or environmental harm associated with pesticide use.
• Administer the Pesticide Use Reporting System (PURS), a secure electronic system that collects specific information from pesticide users who are required to report their annual usage. A household survey of pesticide use is also a component of PURS.
• In addition, the Pesticides Division provides outreach and education to both commercial pesticide users and households to assure that the use of pesticide products does not harm people or the environment. This is done through training courses, newsletters and brochures, the ODA Web site, and one-on-one communication.

2008 regulatory activities

• Registered all 11,642 pesticide products offered for sale in Oregon.
• Registered 6,414 fertilizer products offered for sale in Oregon, amounting to 1.3 million tons of product, and licensed 227 manufacturers/bulk distributors.
• Obtained 38 Special Local Need registrations and 8 Emergency Exemption authorizations from EPA for specific pesticide use in Oregon not listed on the product label. This provided a tremendous benefit to agricultural producers with limited options to control pests.
• Licensed 12,666 pesticide users as required. Those licensees include private, public, and commercial pesticide applicators, trainees, operators, dealers, and consultants. Certification is obtained by passing a written examination that demonstrates an acceptable level of pesticide knowledge.
• Negotiated and monitored user exam sites at 18 educational institutions throughout the state, and provided convenient locations for exam takers.
• Evaluated 978 recertification courses for pesticide users. This assures continuing education of those involved in commercial pesticide use.

Investigations determine improper use of pesticides and fertilizers. Enforcement helps to deter future improper actions. The Pesticides Division actively responds to pesticide and fertilizer-related incidents.

• Received and evaluated 280 pesticide related complaints. Completed 248 investigations. (Less than 25 percent of all complaints are substantiated and lead to investigation).
• Issued enforcement actions for pesticide violations including 32 civil penalties totaling $121,045, 36 advisory notices, 78 notices of violation, and 22 referrals to EPA.
• Issued enforcement actions for fertilizer violations including stop sale, use, or removal orders on 94 companies and 187 products, 16 notices of violation, and 5 civil penalties in the amount of $9,000.
• Administered the Pesticide Analytical and Response Center (PARC) in investigation of 55 cases of alleged health or environmental harm associated with pesticide use. Data collected by PARC is used to make policy recommendations for action.
• Collaborated with ODA's Food Safety Division, Commodity Inspection Division, and the Idaho Department of Agriculture to investigate the misuse of the pesticide product furadan in Malheur County onion fields. Quick and decisive action protected Oregon's onion industry from losing market share because of food safety concerns.
• Cooperated with US Fish and Wildlife and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife to investigate the death of geese in the Willamette Valley due to the pesticide zinc phosphide. Efforts included educating pesticide users, consultants, and dealers on proper use.

Being proactive, not just reactive to potential pesticide problems is a key strategy for the Pesticides Division. New efforts have been initiated to address environmental or health issues connected to pesticide use.

• Completed first two years of data collection through the Pesticide Use Reporting System (PURS). There were 5,732 reporters who filed 284,984 reports of pesticide use identifying 551 active ingredients used statewide in 2007.
• Improved and redesigned the PURS Web site, making it easier for pesticide users to report. This included asking user groups for advice on how to make the system more user-friendly.
• Provided extensive outreach and education to pesticide users required to electronically report to PURS, including 16 statewide help sessions that provided one-on-one assistance.
• Conducted a household pesticide use telephone survey as part of PURS.
• Collaborated with other key state agencies and EPA to establish the Water Quality Pesticide Management Team and examine the impact of pesticides on groundwater and surface water in Oregon. Pooling knowledge with other agencies provides the ability to assess monitoring data on pesticides found in the water supply.

• Provide a centralized point of contact for Oregonians who either need to use pesticides or are concerned with pesticide use.
• Enhance interaction among agencies regarding pesticide use in Oregon.
• Increase outreach and education efforts for Oregon health care providers on pesticide-related illness and injury.
• Assure technical expertise within the division to provide science-based evaluation of pesticide related incidents in Oregon.
• Enhance efforts to educate the public, focusing on household pesticide use.
• Work with public schools regarding pesticide use in school buildings and on school grounds.
• Reduce the time between the reporting of a pesticide incident and formal classification of the associated case handled by PARC.
• Reduce the response time to complaints about potential pesticide misuse and the time to complete an investigation.
• Analyze a greater number of fertilizer samples for content and receive analytical results in a timely manner.
• Improve the ability of pesticide users to file reports to PURS.

"Pesticide products can be valuable tools in protecting crops, property, human health, and the environment. It is important to ensure they are used safely and appropriately in order to keep them in the toolbox." Chris Kirby Pesticides Division administrator

The Insect Pest Prevention and Management section

• Enacts and maintains quarantine regulations to protect Oregon from introductions of invasive insect pests.
• Designs, implements, and conducts statewide surveys to quickly detect newly introduced populations of invasive pests.
• Eradicates populations of invasive pests while they are still low in numbers so that economic and environmental harm is prevented, and the cost of eradication is low.
• Introduces and redistributes biological control agents to reduce the impacts of invasive pests that are widespread to reduce economic and environmental harm and minimize insecticide use.
• Provides insect identification, technical information, and general outreach for stakeholders, agriculturalists, and the general public.

The Noxious Weed Control section

• Enacts and maintains weed quarantine regulations to protect Oregon from introductions of invasive weeds.
• Surveys for invasive weeds so that newly introduced populations are found as soon as possible.
• Eradicates populations of invasive weeds while they are still low in numbers so that economic and environmental harm is prevented and the cost of eradication is low.
• Contains the spread of invasive weed populations that have not yet spread to their full potential range.
• Introduces and redistributes biological control agents to reduce the impacts of widely distributed noxious weeds.
• Acts as a primary resource for weed identification and weed management information for agriculturalists, land managers, and the general public.
• Provides leadership and coordinates activities among federal, state, county, and local weed management entities.
• Administers the State Weed Board Grant Program, allowing land managers to obtain Measure 66 funds for weed control projects that protect watersheds and wildlife habitat.
• Conducts risk assessments of invasive weeds, allowing resources to be focused on the highest priority species.

The Nursery and Christmas Tree section

• Inspects and certifies Oregon-grown nursery stock and Christmas trees shipped out-of-state to meet the importation requirements of other states and countries.
• Helps nurseries produce nursery stock and Christmas trees that are free of insect pests, diseases, and weeds so that harmful pests aren't spread, and Oregon's reputation for high-quality stock is maintained.
• Inspects high-risk imported nursery stock so that unhealthy stock doesn't spread insect pests, plant diseases, or weeds.
• Participates in the USDA Phytophthora ramorum (a.k.a. sudden oak death/SOD) nursery certification program ensuring Oregon nursery stock can be shipped to other states and countries.

The Native Plant Conservation Program

• Develops and implements conservation plans for state-protected threatened and endangered species to facilitate recovery.
• Reviews state agency activities associated with listed species to identify potential threats to remaining populations and provide conflict resolution.
• Supplies assistance to state and local agencies, and the general public in dealing with native plant protection issues.
• Maintains the official state list of endangered and threatened plant species.

• Continued noxious weed eradication projects for Paterson's curse, distaff thistle, giant hogweed, barbed goatgrass, squarrose knapweed, matgrass, plumeless thistle, Taurian thistle, yellow floating heart and purple starthistle.
• Prevented P. ramorum from being shipped out-of-state, protecting the forests from infection, maintaining Oregon's reputation for high-quality nursery stock, and keeping markets open.
• Completed SOD nursery certification program on time and within budget. Of the nearly 2,000 nurseries inspected in 2008, ODA discovered five nurseries with infected plants. The SOD-positive nurseries followed procedures designed to keep other plant material from becoming infected.
• Treated one gypsy moth infestation in Shady Cove and Japanese beetle infestations at three sites in Portland to prevent the pests from becoming established in Oregon.
• Placed roughly 19,000 gypsy moth traps statewide for early detection. High density trapping in Bend, the site of 2007's gypsy moth spray project, resulted in zero catches, indicating that the eradication effort was successful.
• Continued an eradication project in Pendleton to eliminate an isolated apple maggot infestation.
• Conducted surveys for cereal leaf beetle, and grasshoppers, and a variety of insect pests which have not been found in Oregon but threaten the state, including Asian longhorned beetle, emerald ash borer.
• Participated as a permanent member of the state's Invasive Species Council. Maintained an invasive species hotline and helped raise public awareness of invasive species issues.

• Continued a project to reintroduce the Malheur wirelettuce (Stephanomeria malheurensis) to its native habitat in Harney County, so that this annual desert species is restored to the wild where it is currently believed extinct.

• Cooperated with Oregon State University to develop an online training course for nurseries to help them protect their plants from harmful diseases.
• Piloted a voluntary grower assisted inspection program (GAIP) based on best management practices designed to keep Phytophthora diseases out of nurseries. ODA performs audits of grower practices.
• Reviewed the inspection/certification system for Christmas trees destined for Mexico. Worked with USDA and the Christmas tree industry to improve the system and reduce the likelihood of delays in exporting trees into Mexico and having them approved for sale.
• Continued cooperative control projects for target noxious weeds with Bureau of Land Management, US Forest Service, Bonneville Power Administration, Bureau of Reclamation and other cooperators so that weeds on public lands do not spread.
• Worked on 11 BLM and US Fish and Wildlife Service-sponsored field projects in eastern and southern Oregon that will provide data on the status of plant species in Oregon that may be threatened or endangered.

• Continued education and outreach for noxious weed management, such as pamphlet development, Web site development, staff presentations, and hosting the Oregon Interagency Noxious Weed Symposium.
• Monitored, through site visits, 30 percent of the funded weed grant projects administered by ODA to ensure that the money is being well spent.
• Maintained and enhanced online information on invasive insects, plants, and other species, including photo identification and descriptions.
• Worked to further improve ODA's Web page for threatened and endangered plant species, including meeting a goal of 100 percent photo coverage for state-listed species.

• Eradicate a gypsy moth infestation in a neighborhood of South Eugene and continue eradication of Japanese beetle infestations in Portland.
• Update and streamline plant quarantine and weed control laws.
• Continue eradication programs for 10 high priority noxious weeds.
• Build on the success of the Grower Assisted Inspection Program's first year by enlisting additional nurseries to participate.
• Continue conversion to electronic phytosanitary certificates (PCIT).
• Initiate a third party review of the Native Plant Conservation Program, its mission, implementation, and funding.
• Explore the feasibility of a quality assurance program for Christmas trees.

"Two-thirds of the 100 worst invasive species threatening Oregon are weeds or insect pests. Keeping them out of the state is our highest priority." Dan Hilburn Plant Division administrator

ODA Information Office
635 Capitol St. NE
Salem, OR 97301-2532
Phone: 503-986-4550
Email: info@oda.state.or.us