Oregon advocates push for HB 3372 to protect local food and water resources

The Oregon State Legislature's House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water convened on April 7, 2025, to discuss critical issues surrounding local agriculture, food security, and water resource management. A significant focus of the meeting was House Bill 3372-5, which aims to amend existing laws that restrict domestic well users from selling surplus produce.

Advocates for the bill, including representatives from the Oregon Farmers Market Association, emphasized the importance of local agriculture in addressing food scarcity and enhancing community resilience. They argued that food is as vital a resource as water, and that legislation should reflect this by allowing households to sell excess produce. The bill is seen as a necessary step to empower local farmers and improve access to fresh food, particularly in rural areas identified as food deserts.

Jason Kesseling, a district manager and small farmer, supported the bill, highlighting the contradiction in current laws that permit commercial water use for non-agricultural purposes while restricting small-scale farmers from utilizing water for food production. He noted that many rural communities face high poverty levels and limited access to fresh produce, making it essential to support local agriculture.

However, the bill faced opposition from organizations such as the Oregon Farm Bureau and Water Watch, which raised concerns about potential impacts on water resources. They argue that the legislation could complicate existing water management practices and undermine conservation efforts.

The committee's discussions underscored the urgent need to balance agricultural needs with sustainable water use, as Oregon grapples with both food insecurity and water scarcity. The outcome of House Bill 3372-5 could significantly influence the future of local food systems and agricultural practices in the state. The committee is expected to continue deliberating on the bill and its implications for Oregon's farmers and communities.