Oregon Policies

Portland State University (PSU)
PSU selected the food management company Sodexho in 2005, and in their contract they included language specifying the elimination of toxics and the purchase of food from sustainable sources. Perhaps most importantly, the food products Sodexho uses must be locally and sustainably-produced according to minimum percentages, and those percentages increase each year. This contract language is an excellent model for other institutions working with large scale food service management companies.
Adapted from City of Portland, OR Office of Sustainable Development

 

Oregon Farmers Feeding Oregon Kids
Thanks to a trio of Farm to School bills currently under consideration, Oregon legislators have an opportunity to bring great Oregon agricultural products — fruits, vegetables, and more — into the lunchroom. Because they employ proven strategies and a holistic approach, these bills enjoy widespread support, earning an A+ from schools, parents, agricultural groups, educators, and health professionals far and wide. For a list of organizations supporting HB 3476, HB 3307, and HB 3185. Oregon Farmers Feeding Oregon Kids, click here.

Oregon Farm to School and School Garden Program
During the February 2008 Special Session, the Oregon Legislature passed HB 3601 and the Governor signed the bill into law on March 11, 2008. The Department of Education shall establish the Oregon Farm-to-School and School Garden Program. Through the program, the department shall: (a) Assist school districts that participate in the United States Department of Agriculture's National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program in utilizing Oregon food products and produce from school gardens; (b) Promote food- and garden-based educational activities in school districts that participate in the United States Department of Agriculture's National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program; (c) Provide information to school districts on how farm-to-school and school garden projects may help implement wellness policies mandated by the United States Department of Agriculture; (d) Assist school districts in incorporating farm-to-school and school garden projects into wellness policies mandated by the United States Department of Agriculture; (e) Work with the State Department of Agriculture to develop farm-to-school related programs; and (f) Perform other activities necessary to facilitate the success of the Oregon Farm-to-School and School Garden Program.