Oregon Public Broadcasting

Oregon lawmakers narrowly gave final approval Monday to a bill that would end most field burning in the state over the next two years.

The smoke from the burns is blamed for health problems in nearby communities.

Some grass seed farmers say they need to burn their fields after harvest to combat pests and weeds.

But Charlie Tebbutt with the Western Environmental Law Center dismisses the farmers’ argument:

Charlie Tebbutt: “They’re simply making a few extra dollars at the expense of public health. And now they’re going to be in line with their other colleagues who have done the right thing and stopped field burning.”

The measure includes some exceptions, but critics of field burning called it a major victory.

The phase-out now heads to Governor Ted Kulongoski’s desk. He’s expected to sign it.

Online:

Senate Bill 528-B