Oregon Gov. Kate Brown (D) signed House Bill (HB) 2437 into effect after previously expected to deny the bill. HB 2437 makes it easier for farmers to clear drainage ditches next to their fields.
“I have heard from numerous organizations that this bill goes too far in its changes,” Brown said in a letter.
“It significantly increases the allowed removal and disposal of materials in wetland areas without scientific basis for the new limit, changes consultation requirements with wildlife agencies, and includes intermittent streams in the definition of channels.”
However, Brown continues on to say she heard from different conservation organizations, state agencies and industry groups that said the current system is unworkable and unused, and that is greater risk to wetlands and wildlife habitat.
Industry representatives advocated for the support of the bill, saying ditch cleaning is essential for maintaining farmland, and a new program was needed.
In the past, farmers have been required to acquire a permit to clear out ditches and dump the materials on their fields, many of which are classified as wetlands.
Under the new bill, farmers would only need to give notice and do not need a permit for less than 3,000 cubic yards of ditch materials over a period of five years.
