New federal legislation could burden local farmers

by Nate Rafn | Salem Weekly

Critics of Senate Bill 510 (S.510), the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act, believe new regulations will put small farms out of business.

S.510 was introduced in March, 2009, by Senator Richard Durbin (D-IL). Since then, twenty-one Senators have signed-on as co-sponsors.

After a series committee hearings, motions, and proposed amendments, the U.S. Senate passed the bill on November 30th, 2010, with a Yea-Nay vote of 73-25. Oregon's Democratic Senators, Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley, each voted in favor.

Frost on the Pumpkin

by Nate Rafn | Living Culture

I just returned from a visit to Bridgeport Farms & Gardens near Monmouth, Oregon. The farm is owned and operated by Jerry and Jo Dhooghe. Most of Bridgeport's 87 acres are reserved for wetland restoration, with much of the rest used for growing vegetables. The farm also has a small country store, providing fresh produce and various organic foods.