GMOs in Oregon Oregon not a huge player, but growers interested in genetically modified organisms GMO issues getting increased attention in Oregon May 23, 2001. . . Still, there are questions from growers and consumers alike ranging from the marketing of GMO foods to whether the benefits outweigh any negatives. The Oregon Department of Agriculture and Oregon State University are doing their best to answer many of those questions. The department is maintaining a neutral position on the use of GMOs and basically acting as a mediator for those opposed and in favor of the technology.
Genetic engineering is used to introduce genes for specific traits into targeted organisms.
The reduction in pesticide use in such crops as cotton and corn has been dramatic because of GMO products. Since 1992, USDA has received 75 applications to deregulate commercial GMO products. Again, most of those products are found in other parts of the U.S., outside of Oregon. The crops grown in Oregon are mostly minor crops and have not received the same amount of scientific inquiry with regards to genetic engineering. There is some commercial production, but a majority of plantings are still experimental.