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March 20, 2020
Oregon is facing an unprecedented situation as the COVID-19 emergency continues to evolve. Maintaining access to an uninterrupted, safe food supply is an essential function. Our food and agriculture workers have a special responsibility to maintain a normal work schedule. The state wants to thank the industry and reinforce their commitment to supporting our farmers, ranchers, fishers, food processors, and farm workers during this challenging time.
“We appreciate the dedication of our food and agriculture workers,” says ODA Director Alexis Taylor. “Telecommuting is not an option for these workers, they are reporting to work as always while taking all necessary precautions to protect our health and the health of their co-workers. Agriculture and food production remain an essential industry that feeds our communities and the state’s economy.”
The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) with guidance from the Oregon Health Authority (OHA) is actively speaking with agricultural producers and organizations across the state sharing information with the goal of minimizing negative impacts and providing clarity whenever possible. The agriculture industry has ODA’s full support as a critical infrastructure sector recognizing workers as essential to maintain the services and functions Oregonians depend on daily during the COVID-19 pandemic response.
“We recognize the importance of limiting the spread of COVID-19, at the same time our farmers and agri-businesses must continue to operate in order to be able to provide food and fuel consumers depend on,” said Taylor.
ODA will also continue to operate during the COVID-19 emergency, prioritizing resources and continuing with our critical functions. For ODA operation information and agriculture specific COVID-19 info please visit oda.direct/COVID19. For statewide COVID-19 information please visit the Oregon Health Authority
Contact: Andrea Cantu-Schomus 503-881-9049, acantuschomus@oda.state.or.us
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