Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 972 - DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE, OREGON ALBACORE COMMISSION
Oregon Administrative Rules, Chapter 972, specifically outlines the regulations for the Department of Agriculture, Oregon Albacore Commission. This chapter establishes the framework for how the Oregon Albacore Commission operates, particularly in its efforts to support and promote the Oregon albacore tuna industry.
The Oregon Albacore Commission is one of several agricultural and commercial fisheries commodity commissions in Oregon, designed to be industry-funded and directed. Its overarching goal is to enhance the value, market, and sustainability of Oregon albacore.
Here's a breakdown of the key areas covered in Chapter 972:
Division 1: Procedural Rules: This division sets out the general administrative procedures for the Commission, including how it conducts its meetings, makes decisions, and manages its internal operations.
Division 10: Reporting and Payment of Assessments: This is a crucial part, as it details how the Commission is funded. The Oregon Albacore Commission is primarily funded by an assessment (a fee) levied on the cash value of all albacore landed in Oregon. This assessment is typically split equally between the harvester (fisherman) and the first receiver (processor). These rules specify the procedures for reporting catch and sales, and for the payment of these assessments.
Division 20: Public Records Request: This division outlines the procedures for how the public can request and access public records from the Oregon Albacore Commission, ensuring transparency in its operations.
Division 30: Commission Make-Up, Terms, Qualifications, Term Limits, Removal From Office: This section defines the structure of the Commission. The Oregon Albacore Commission typically consists of nine members appointed by the Director of the Oregon Department of Agriculture. These members usually include:
Five producers (fishermen)
Three handlers/processors
One public member
These rules specify the terms of their appointments (e.g., three-year terms), qualifications, and conditions for removal from office.
Division 40: Commissioner Per Diem and Reimbursements: This division sets the rules for compensating commissioners for their time spent on official duties (per diem) and for reimbursing them for actual and necessary travel and other expenses incurred while performing their commission responsibilities.
Responsibilities of the Oregon Albacore Commission:
Based on its role as a commodity commission and the nature of its funding, the Oregon Albacore Commission's key responsibilities include:
Policy and Direction: Setting the overall strategic policy and direction for the Oregon commercial albacore troll fishing industry.
Marketing and Promotion: Developing and implementing programs to promote Oregon Albacore domestically and internationally. This often includes advertising, public relations, trade show participation, and creating materials to highlight the quality and sustainability of Oregon-caught albacore.
Research: Funding and facilitating research projects aimed at:
Improving product handling and quality (e.g., ensuring proper icing/freezing to prevent histamine formation).
Developing value-added products from albacore.
Understanding market trends and consumer preferences.
Supporting scientific assessments related to the health and sustainability of the albacore stock.
Education: Conducting educational initiatives to inform consumers about Oregon Albacore's characteristics (e.g., high Omega-3 content, hook-and-line catching methods, "Best Choice" and "Super Green" ratings from organizations like Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch and Marine Stewardship Council). This also includes educating industry members on best practices.
Advocacy: Representing the interests of the Oregon albacore industry in legislative and regulatory discussions at state and federal levels.
In essence, Oregon Administrative Rules Chapter 972 provides the legal framework that empowers the Oregon Albacore Commission to use industry-generated funds to support, promote, and ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of the albacore fishery in Oregon.
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