Oregon's House Bill 2347 is stirring up discussions as it seeks to reshape regulations surrounding exclusive farm use zones. Introduced on February 19, 2025, the bill aims to facilitate agri-tourism and related commercial activities while maintaining the integrity of agricultural land.

At the heart of HB 2347 is a provision allowing counties to authorize a single agri-tourism event per year on a farm, provided it meets specific criteria. These include a maximum duration of 72 hours, attendance capped at 500 people, and parking limited to 250 vehicles. The bill emphasizes that such events must be incidental to existing farm operations, ensuring that agriculture remains the primary focus.

Supporters argue that this legislation could provide much-needed economic relief to farmers by diversifying income sources and attracting visitors to rural areas. "Agri-tourism can be a game-changer for local economies," said a proponent during the legislative session. However, opponents express concerns about potential disruptions to farming activities and the risk of commercialization undermining agricultural land.

The bill also addresses the sale and transfer of real property within these zones, allowing sellers to retain a life estate in their dwelling, which could ease transitions for retiring farmers. Additionally, it stipulates that any taxes incurred from changes in land use must be settled before final approvals are granted.

As the bill progresses through the legislature, its implications for Oregon's agricultural landscape remain a hot topic. Experts predict that if passed, HB 2347 could pave the way for a new era of agri-tourism, but not without sparking ongoing debates about land use and agricultural preservation. The next steps will involve further discussions and potential amendments as lawmakers weigh the economic benefits against the preservation of Oregon's cherished farmland.