OFB: Rural Oregon Must Be Active In 2020

As we prepare for a new year, the Oregon Farm Bureau is reminding producers the importance of being active, and having their voice heard.  Mary Anne Cooper with the OFB said while rural portions of the state may feel their concerns are being ignored, she notes when farmers speak up, Salem must take note.

“And I think we saw them really show up in 2019 and really make their voices heard and it did matter, and it does have an effect on legislators, especially those that are actively trying to help working class Oregonians, that’s a powerful signal.”

Cooper said it important that Oregon producers continue that momentum into 2020, and stand up for themselves and their neighbors.

“You know I think it has been frustrating for rural Oregon to see what’s coming out of Salem, their voices do matter, and showing up does matter and we want folks to know that engagement is important and something we saw have a real effect in 2019, and we believe can continue to have a real effect if we can keep it up.”

Cooper added in 2019 Oregon lawmakers placed a lot of focus on environmental and natural resource issues, having a direct impact on the farm industry.  And she anticipates that will continue into the future.

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