The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is responsible for preventing and controlling water pollution from agricultural activities. ODA works with landowners to support voluntary practices. ODA works with landowners to support voluntary practices and provides flexibility in how compliance is achieved. ODA may pursue enforcement actions, including civil penalties, if voluntary practices are not implemented and violations go unaddressed.
Water quality concerns?
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) is responsible for investigating concerns around agricultural water quality. The Department may not be able to investigate if the form is not complete. ODA will evaluate or investigate a complaint if:
- Be submitted in writing,
- Be signed and dated by the complainant,
- Clearly describe the impacted surface or groundwater,
- Identify the property or operation causing the issue.
- Livestock Waste
- Fertilizer Management
- Agricultural Runoff
- Erosion
- Impacts to Riparian Vegetation
What are the agricultural water quality requirements?
ODA focuses on key areas that help protect Oregon’s water resources:
- Streamside vegetation: Agricultural activities must allow streamside vegetation to establish and grow to provide shade, stabilize banks, and filter runoff.
- Erosion control: Landowners must manage their properties to prevent erosion and soil deposition to waterways.
- Manure and nutrient management: Fertilizers and manure must be used responsibly to avoid contamination of surface and groundwater.