Make a difference, volunteer as a commodity commissioner
Apply by March 15
The Oregon Department of Agriculture is recruiting for 63 commissioners this spring. If you’re interested in shaping the research, education, and marketing programs for a commodity apply by March 15, 2022.
Commissioners represent producers (farmers, ranchers, commercial fish harvesters), handlers (first purchasers), and the public.
Review the open commissioner positions to find the position number.
- Oregon resident
- U.S. citizen
- Paid the commodity assessment for at least the three preceding years
- Have an active interest in the positive development and economic growth of the commodity industry in Oregon
Several commissions require applicants to represent specific geographic regions. This requirement is noted in the commissioner opening list next to the position.
Most commissioner terms are three years long. The potato, salmon, sheep, trawl and wheat commissioner terms are four years, except for the wheat handlers, which are two years. All terms begin July 1, 2022.
Some commissions have partial terms created through resignation or previously unfilled positions. Partial term end dates are listed next to the position number in the table below.
Interested in applying to serve as a commissioner?
Complete and submit the General Commodity Commission Application form by March 15, 2022.
Producer and handler applicants need to list a position number on your application and check the appropriate box for producer or handler.
Fill out the form using a computer.
Print, sign, and date the form. Do not lock the form if using an electronic signature.
Scan your completed form and email the completed form to commissions@oda.oregon.gov
If available, attach a letter(s) of support to your application.
You may also mail your completed form to:
1207 NW Naito Parkway, Suite 204
Portland, OR 97209-2832
We cannot accept previous year's forms, applications that are not readable, that do not have a producer or handler position number, or that do not have a signature. Please do not send photos of an application.
Appointment process
The director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture appoints commodity commissioners. The director’s decision to appoint is based on a number of factors including:
- Applicant experience
- Commitment to service
- Industry counsel
You will receive a letter in mid-to-late May to inform you of the director’s decision. New terms begin July 1. Those appointed will receive an oath of office that they must have a notary public witness. ODA must receive your oath of office before commissioners can take any official action.
About Oregon's commodity commissions
Commodity commissioners are Oregon public officials who volunteer their time for the economic betterment of the commodity. Oregon has 23 commodity commissions that operate with oversight from the Oregon Department of Agriculture.
Commodity commissioners carry out important decision-making for their particular commodity.
Each year, commissioners develop and approve a budget using their commodity’s assessments for non-branded promotion, research, and education programs. Commissioners determine the projects and programs to fund with assessments that growers and harvesters pay.
Looking for more information? Contact any one of the commissions using the commodity commission contact list.
Resources
Commodity Commissioner brochure (2021)
Love Oregon’s farms, ranches and commercial fishing? Support their success and apply to serve as a commodity commissioner. Commodity Commissioner brochure