A significant discussion unfolded during the Oregon House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water meeting on March 31, 2025, as stakeholders voiced strong opposition to proposed fee increases by the Oregon Water Resources Department (OWRD). The proposed legislation, HB 2,803, seeks to raise fees by an alarming 135%, a move that many argue could severely impact Oregon's farmers and rural communities.

Ryan Crabill, representing the Oregon Farm Bureau, articulated the coalition's concerns, emphasizing that the fee hikes are unjustified and could hinder the operational efficiency of family farms already grappling with rising costs and inflation. "Water is not just a resource; it is the backbone of our state's agricultural economy," Crabill stated, highlighting the critical role of affordable water transactions in sustaining agricultural operations.

The committee heard that OWRD currently receives less than 3% of the state's general fund, raising questions about the agency's budget accountability and efficiency. Crabill pointed out that previous fee increases were intended to maintain service levels, yet staffing has declined and application backlogs persist. "It does not make sense to ask water users to pay more for a system that continues to deliver less," he argued.

The discussion underscored the tension between the need for adequate funding for natural resource management and the financial burdens placed on water users. Stakeholders urged the committee to reconsider the proposed fee structure, advocating for a more equitable approach that does not disproportionately affect farmers and ranchers.

As the committee deliberates, the future of HB 2,803 remains uncertain, with calls for a more balanced solution that ensures the sustainability of Oregon's agricultural sector while addressing the funding needs of the OWRD. The outcome of this legislative proposal could have lasting implications for the state's water management and agricultural economy.