Oregon Lawmakers Wants USDA To Purchase Hazelnuts

Oregon Senator Jeff Merkley is leading a push for federal help for the state’s hazelnut industry.  Merkley and members of the state’s congressional delegation are urging the USDA to include Oregon hazelnuts in this year’s Section 32 food-purchase program. 

“The hazelnut industry is a massive and integral part of our state's agricultural economy; its size and longevity represent generations of farmers and handlers who have dedicated their lives to producing and distributing a product many communities depend on for their livelihoods,” wrote the lawmakers. 

Oregon produces 99% of the nation’s hazelnuts.

“In recent years, disruptions in important export markets caused by these compounding issues have been particularly difficult for certain kernel sizes and grades that are high-quality, marketable food products but have fewer commercial outlets," the lawmakers continued.  "These imbalances and market losses create uncertainty and pressure for our farmers and producers and threaten the steady distribution needed to prevent compounding product surpluses year-to-year.”

The lawmakers added the requested federal purchases could help support farmers, harvesters and processors, especially in the Willamette Valley.

This week's letter was signed by senators Merkley and Ron Wyden, as well as U.S. representatives Suzanne Bonamic, Andrea Salinas, Maxine Dexter, Janelle Bynum, as well as Val Hoyle.  Click Here to read the entire letter.

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