The Oregon Department of Agriculture (ODA) has issued a notice to DLF USA for 71 violations of the Oregon Seed Law. Each violation carries a penalty of $2,800, amounting to a total fine of $198,800.
According to ODA, these violations were identified during an investigation into complaints that DLF USA underpaid seed growers and did not comply with the 2024 price order for tall fescue seed. The department found that DLF USA failed to pay growers on time as required by state Slow Pay No Pay laws. This resulted in growers receiving the full amount owed for their crops only after intervention.
The Oregon Seed Law gives ODA authority under ORS 633.680(1)(i) to enforce rules regarding recordkeeping by seed dealers. The law requires dealers to maintain complete records for each lot of seed for three years after sale or disposition and make those records available to ODA upon request.
“The company has 20 days to request a contested case hearing before an administrative law judge.”
ODA supports family-owned farms producing various commodities for both local and international markets, contributing to economic resilience and community strength. The department works statewide, offering programs such as pest prevention, weed management, pesticide regulation, and hemp programming. It is advised by a State Board of Agriculture on policy matters and upholds values including inclusivity and sustainability while providing compliance assistance and market support across Oregon. More information about its mission can be found on the official website.
