Onions Key To Eastern Oregon’s Past And Future

Oregon is a top onion producing state, and most the crop is grown in Malheur, Morrow and Umatilla counties.  In 2024, Oregon’s onion production was value at roughly $260 million, a 10% year-over-year increase.

Oregon State University’s Malheur Experiment Station in Ontario plays a crucial role in advancing Ag practices in the region, including onion production.  Experiment Station Director Stuart Reitz said the work they do help the roughly 400 farms in the Snake River Valley, having a direct economic impact on the state of Oregon, the Boise area and more.

“What we do at the experiment station, what our partners in extension and NRCS and other agencies to help make sure that we have, that solid, vibrant agricultural community benefits, not just the farmers, but the overall community, the car dealerships to the doctor's offices and all of that,” he said.

Eastern Oregon Ag, OSU Have Had A Long Relationship

Reitz added the relationship between the Experiment Station and the local farming community has been a strong one, dating back to the 1940s.

“The community asked Oregon State University to start an experiment station here," Reitz said.  "And the community funded it.  So, they provided the land and the university set up operations back during World War II.  To me, that was one of the things that attracted me to coming to work here. It's like this community cares about it. You know, they care about having, again, that vibrant farm economy going.”

It's Not Just Growers That Benefit

Not only does the Experiment Station help growers through research and variety trial, but they also focus on helping the packing community, address bacterial contamination and post-harvest practices.

If you have a story idea for the PNW Ag Network, call (509) 547-1618, or e-mail glenn.vaagen@townsquaremedia.com