- We inform and activate our network to ensure that stakeholders are kept up-to-date and can contribute their expertise and strategy.
- We serve as a unified voice for our industry.
- We gather data to analyze how policy impacts our industry and community.
- We invest in strategies and methods to provide accurate information – this includes funding research or economic studies, gathering statistical information from our own membership, etc.
- We educate about our industry, the ways we serve our community, the challenges we face, and what can be done to ensure a strong and resilient food chain in the Columbia Gorge.
- We join forces with other stakeholders and organizations to create a louder voice.
Advocacy Efforts
Advocating for the tree fruit industry is focused on educating decision-makers about the impact of their public policy decisions, and helping them understand how the people and businesses in the agricultural industry will be impacted.
Columbia Gorge Fruit Growers’ advocacy work is not about partisan politics, nor is it about political candidates.
When decisions are made that will impact our ability to continue growing fruit and serving as an essential part of the local economy and global food chain, we cannot sit on the sidelines. Our goals are to identify solutions, find common ground, and remain committed to the communities and people we serve.
Our Efforts
We Advocate for Our Growers
- Fund contract lobbying services to represent our interests at the state and federal levels.
- Host orchard tours and presentations to share our work, knowledge and experience.
- Represent our industry to the public and press.
- Work with legal counsel to fight for policies and regulations that support our continued existence and success.
- Organize our grower members to participate in the legislative and rule- making processes.
- Inform policy-makers about the needs and priorities of the tree fruit industry.
- Provide education and outreach to locals and visitors about our practices.