Help Protect Oregon’s Small Farms

In just the past five years, Oregon has lost over 2,100 small to mid-sized farms. Farming has always come with challenges—from unpredictable weather to rising costs—but today, it's getting even harder to keep small farms afloat.

Most grocery stores and restaurants buy from the lowest bidder, which usually means massive farms located far from our region—or even our country. At the same time, changing cooking habits mean more people are buying pre-made meals, leaving less room for fresh, local ingredients from nearby farms.

One of the few ways small farms can stay viable is by opening their gates to the public—through farm stands, events, harvest festivals, and other agritourism experiences. That additional income makes a huge difference in whether a farm survives or disappears.

We need your help.

The Oregon Department of Land Conservation and Development (DLCD) is proposing new rules that would make it harder—not easier—for farms like ours to offer those experiences. Many of the rules add new layers of restrictions, high application fees and uncertainty, putting more farms at risk.

Please take a moment to contact your state legislators and the Governor’s office. Let them know:

  • You support Oregon’s small farms, farm stands, and agritourism

  • You oppose DLCD’s proposed rules because they threaten the future of family farms

  • You believe Oregon should be making it easier for farmers to diversify and stay on the land

Together, we can make a difference.

Below is a sample letter you can copy and send to Governor Kotek, Senator Merkley, Senator Wyden, and your legislators (Find your representatives). You can also email a public comment to DLCD opposing their draft rules: farmforest.comment@dlcd.oregon.gov

·       Review the rule: Read Draft

With much appreciation,

Kat & Jim

Subject: Please Protect Oregon’s Farmstands and Agritourism

Dear [Governor Kotek] [Representative] [Senator]

I’m writing as a proud Oregonian and someone whose family has made countless memories at local farm stands and agritourism events. From picking apples in Hood River to enjoying farm-to-table dinners and seasonal festivals, these experiences have become part of our family’s story— and part of what makes Oregon so special.

These farms aren’t just places to visit. They’re run by hardworking families who support local jobs, bring life to our rural communities, and help preserve Oregon’s agricultural heritage. That’s why I’m deeply concerned about the proposed farm stand permit rules from DLCD. These rules would create new restrictions, fees and enforcement systems that could make it harder for small farms to survive. 

Farmstands and agritourism businesses deserve our support—not more pressure. They’re already doing the hard work of growing food, welcoming visitors, educating the public, and keeping our rural economy strong. Please stand with them and oppose these rules. Let’s make sure Oregon continues to be a place where agriculture and community thrive together.

Thank you for listening and for standing up for Oregon’s farmers.

Sincerely,

[Your Name] [Your City], Oregon