Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 642 - DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, OREGON MINT COMMISSION
The Oregon Administrative Rules (OAR) Chapter 642 governs the Oregon Mint Commission, which is part of the Oregon Department of Agriculture. This chapter covers a variety of regulations related to the mint industry, including licensing, inspections, quality control, and marketing.
The Oregon Mint Commission was established to regulate the mint industry in Oregon, which is one of the leading mint-producing regions in the United States. These rules provide structure for producers, marketers, and stakeholders involved in the mint industry, ensuring that operations comply with state standards.
Here are four significant provisions or cases within OAR Chapter 642, explained in detail:
1. OAR 642-001-0010 – Definitions
This rule provides a clear set of definitions for terms used throughout the Oregon Mint Commission’s regulations. It is important for clarity and consistency. For example:
“Mint” is defined as a plant from the genus Mentha, primarily peppermint (Mentha piperita) or spearmint (Mentha spicata), which are the two main types of mint grown in Oregon.
“Commission” refers to the Oregon Mint Commission.
“Grower” refers to any person or entity that grows mint plants for commercial purposes.
These definitions set the framework for how the other rules will be interpreted and applied across the mint industry in Oregon.
2. OAR 642-003-0020 – Mint Field Inspections
This rule establishes the procedures for mint field inspections conducted by the Oregon Mint Commission or authorized personnel. Inspections are vital for ensuring that growers are complying with agricultural practices, particularly those relating to pesticide use, irrigation, and weed control.
Key provisions include:
The frequency of inspections (typically, fields are inspected annually, but more frequent inspections can be mandated if issues are observed).
The criteria under which a grower's field can be deemed non-compliant, such as failure to maintain quality standards or adherence to specific cultivation practices.
Consequences for non-compliance, which may range from warnings to fines or even the suspension of the grower's ability to sell mint products.
3. OAR 642-004-0030 – Quality Control and Standards for Mint Oil
This rule sets standards for the quality control of mint oil, which is a major product derived from mint plants. The rule stipulates:
Purity standards for mint oil, ensuring that it is free from contaminants or adulterants.
Testing requirements for mint oil to verify its purity and quality. Testing may be conducted at various stages of production, including at the point of extraction, processing, and packaging.
Approval of laboratories that conduct the testing. Only those laboratories that meet the qualifications set by the Oregon Mint Commission can conduct these tests.
The rule’s purpose is to maintain the reputation of Oregon’s mint industry, ensuring that all mint oil sold from the state is of the highest quality and compliant with both state and national standards.
4. OAR 642-005-0040 – Marketing Orders and Assessments
This rule deals with the marketing of mint products and includes marketing orders that may be issued by the Oregon Mint Commission. A marketing order allows the Commission to:
Assess a fee on mint growers, which is typically used to fund marketing campaigns, research, and development efforts to promote Oregon-grown mint.
Set quality standards that must be met in order to market mint products under the "Oregon" label.
Growers can be required to participate in these marketing orders and assessments, and failure to comply could lead to penalties. However, the ultimate goal is to improve the overall marketability and demand for Oregon mint products, both domestically and internationally.
5. OAR 642-007-0050 – Licensing and Registration of Mint Growers
This rule sets out the licensing requirements for mint growers in Oregon. It ensures that all mint growers are properly registered with the Oregon Mint Commission. Specific provisions of this rule include:
Growers must apply annually for a license, providing updated information about their operations, acreage, and production methods.
New growers must pass an initial inspection before receiving a license to ensure they meet all necessary agricultural standards.
The fees for licensing and any applicable penalties for failing to register or maintain an up-to-date license.
The rule aims to ensure that mint production in Oregon remains regulated, and that growers are compliant with state standards and regulations for sustainable agriculture and product quality.
These regulations are part of the overarching framework to ensure that the mint industry in Oregon remains efficient, sustainable, and competitive. The Oregon Mint Commission provides oversight that helps maintain the integrity of the industry, ensuring that growers adhere to quality standards, marketing guidelines, and agricultural practices.
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