ODA Concludes Rulemaking Process, State Agencies Looking for Nitrate Reduction Plan Feedback

The public comment period for the Oregon Department of Agriculture‘s proposed water quality rulemaking in the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area (LUBGWMA) ended on December 22nd. These rules will have significant impacts on producers who live and farm in the basin. H2OEO submitted comments raising concerns regarding the scientific basis for the regulations and specifically questioning reliance on deep soil sampling as metric for a regulatory success. ODA will now review comments and make any changes they deem necessary before publishing the final rule.

While H2OEO has concerns regarding the proposed rules, we recognize the importance of showing the public that farmers are responsibly managing irrigation and fertilization in the basin. The Lower Umatilla Basin is a worldwide leader in irrigation and fertilization technology, and we are extremely proud of farmers' work in the basin. One of our areas of emphasis in 2026 is to provide information and outreach regarding nutrient management practices.

In addition, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, Department of Agriculture, and Water Resources Department are seeking comments on the state's Nitrate Reduction Plan for the Lower Umatilla Basin Groundwater Management Area. As you may recall, the Nitrate Reduction Plan is a series of actions state agencies are taking to reduce and eliminate any current loading of nitrates into groundwater. More information can be found on the state Nitrate Reduction Plan webpage here. Feedback is requested by February 10th.

The state has made significant progress in implementing the Nitrate Reduction Plan. For example, ODA’s LUBGWMA rulemaking, strategic implementation area process, and engagement with local soil, water, and conservation districts are important steps in establishing a strong baseline of nutrient management practices. The Water Resources Department has also begun conducting well inspections and ensuring wells have backflow prevention devices.