Legislative Activities

 Legislative Bills:

During the 2005 Legislative session, Oregon Aquaculture Association sponsored four bills, of which one was enacted into law. 

Senate Bill 346 was signed by Governor Kulongowski.  It addresses “relating to the farming of aquatic species in exclusive farm use zone amending ORS 215.203, 215.213 and 215.283".   The purpose is to define aquaculture as and agriculture use and thus is permitted in within exclusive farm use areas in Oregon.

Other bills, sponsored by Oregon Aquaculture Association which were not passed, are Senate Bill 351, 352, and 746.  Following is a synopsis on these bills:

Senate Bill 351: Eliminates restriction on issuance of sturgeon propagation permits.  Allows person holding fish propagation license to transport live fish without holding separate permit.  Directs State Fish and Wildlife Commission to appoint private fish hatchery advisory committee. Specifies duties.

Senate Bill 352: Removes sunset on provisions for pilot program relating to purchase of aquaculture products from private aquaculture facilities.

Senate Bill 746: Transfers regulation of food fish propagation from State Department of Fish and Wildlife to State Department of Agriculture.  Allows aquaculture operations to be regulated as confined animal feeding operations for purposes of wastewater permits.  Takes effect on 91^st day following adjournment sine die.

Click here to review the content of these 2005 bills.

With much appreciation, Oregon Aquaculture Association thanks Desert Springs Trout Farm for hiring Joe Rohleder, Lobbyist, to assist with these legislative goals.  Joe informed us of the legislative process and led us through hearings and discussions with agency representatives and legislators.  Thank you Joe...we really appreciate you!

 Fish Fry for Legislators:

Oregon Aquaculture Association co-sponsored the “Fish Fry” with Pacific Seafood, Mt. Hood Beverage, Association of Liquor Stores, Oregon Anglers and Oregon Dungeness Crab Commission on May 12, 2005 at the home of Becky and Jim Sterup in Salem.  Desert Springs Trout Farm did a terrific job treating legislators and others to barbequed trout, among with other delectables.  Over 125 diners enjoyed this summer evening.

 Display:

On May 25, 2005, Oregon Aquaculture Association assembled a display of information about our goals, map of our producers and photos from our members, including Have Fish Will Swim and Lake’s Trout Farm.  We shared several aquariums filled with bass, crappie, bluegill, pumpkinseed, mosquito fish, channel catfish and brown bullhead catfish.  Additionally, displays appeared from Santiam Valley Ranch and Clear Creek Rainbow Ranch.