3/20/2013 9:42:59 PM
On March 14 the Stop the Dump Coalition joined members of the Oregon Farm Bureau and land use watchdog Thousand Friends of Oregon to testify at the first legislative hearing for HB 3040, a bill sponsored by Ben Unger of Washington County that would prohibit landfills on EFU land (see related article below).
As presently worded, HB 3040 targets only landfills. The bill summary reads:
Background:
One of Oregon’s most valuable assets is its farmland. Among the most fertile in the world and the source of a huge diversity of products, Oregon farms are an economic driver, a source of scenic beauty and pride, and an Oregon tradition. Over the past half century, thanks to foresighted land use measures such as SB 100, signed 40 years ago this May, Oregon has been a leader among states in protecting its farmland from sprawl, and uses incongruent with such fertile, pristine land.
The Problem:
The number of non-farm uses permitted on land zoned as “exclusive farm use” (EFU) has expanded substantially over the years. One of the more problematic permitted non-farm uses is landfills. Allowing landfills in farm zones not only destroys high value farmland indefinitely, but it lowers the value of adjacent land, creates conflict in farm zones, potentially leaks toxins into groundwater and aquifers, and harms the livelihood of nearby farmers.
To voice your support for this landmark legislation, contact Rep. Unger; be sure to reference the bill number (HB 3040) in your communication. Email Benhere or call 503-986-1429.
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