Rep. Deihl: Protect Agritourism, Small Farms & Local Food Sales

By Oregon State Representative Ed Diehl,

Our family farms are under threat. The Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) is proposing new rules that could severely limit how farm stands operate — restricting food sales, agritourism activities, and crucial income streams for small farms across our state.

These proposals undermine the very foundation of Oregon’s agricultural heritage and rural economy. Farm stands don’t just sell fresh produce — they connect communities, support local families, and preserve Oregon’s way of life.

Tomorrow – Thursday, July 24 from 1:00–4:00 PM, the DLCD will meet to discuss these changes. If we don’t speak up now, it may be too late.

Draft rules can be found here: Department of Land Conservation and Development : Rulemaking : Laws and Rules : State of Oregon (Scroll down to OAR 660-033-0130: Regarding farm stands in exclusive farm use zones and agritourism).