Farm Inspections Coming Soon

The farm inspection portion of the Food Safety Modernization Act will happen in 2019 but the Oregon Department of Agriculture is helping farmers prepare now.  ODA is organizing training at four different locations with focus on the produce safety rule says Stephanie Page, Director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Food Safety and Animal Services programs.

“We’ve been doing a lot of outreach work to growers, first of all to let them know this rule exists. I’m sure there are folks out there that still aren’t aware that it is coming. Also to let folks know about some of the things that they will need to do and to pay attention to over the next few years.”

Implementation depends on size of farm and the rule, but for some operations it begins in January.  When it comes to preparing for the mandatory on-farm inspections, Page has two pieces of advice.

“Figure out whether you are covered by the rule and which compliance dates apply to you, and get the required training. Contact us about the trainings that are scheduled as well as our future schedule.”

Trainings will be held at Oregon State University Extension sites on November 7 in Medford, November 13 in Aurora, November 14 in Hermiston, and November 15 in Hood River. The cost to register for the full, 8-hour training is $25. For more information contact ODA.

If you have a story idea for the Washington Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail gvaagen@cherrycreekradio.com