Farmland or tourist attraction? Oregon lawmakers weigh bill on farm stores, revenue limits

Some farmers say draws like pumpkin patches and tree farms bring revenue that makes farming viable, while others worry about the development of protected farmland.

PORTLAND, Ore. — Oregon lawmakers are considering a new bipartisan bill that would loosen regulations for ‘agritourism’ operations across the state, sparking debate over whether the changes would support farmers’ livelihoods or threaten the agriculture industry.

HB 4153 would allow the creation of larger “farm stores” — up to 10,000 square feet — and remove some restrictions on agritourism events and retail sales, affecting farms that offer attractions like pumpkin patches, Christmas tree farms and berry picking.

Lawmakers are

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