The high costs associated with doing business in Oregon have led some onion producers to relocate their operations to Idaho. This trend is underscored by a decline in onion production in Malheur County, Oregon, over the past five years, as reported by a U.S. Department of Agriculture census. The census, comparing data from 2022 to 2017, revealed a reduction of 3,450 acres in dry onions harvested, totaling 10,030 acres. Dave Losh, a statistician with the National Agriculture Statistics Service, attributed this shift to increased business expenses in Oregon, including higher minimum wages and energy costs, prompting a migration to Idaho where the operational climate is perceived to be more favorable.
Conversely, Idaho has seen a near 4,000-acre increase in onion cultivation, with significant growth in Payette County. The 2017 snowstorms, which destroyed several warehouses and packing sheds, led some growers to rebuild in Idaho, citing economic advantages. Shay Myers, CEO of Owyhee Produce, shared his experience of rebuilding in Canyon County, Idaho, highlighting the expedited approval and permitting process compared to Oregon.
Source: malheurenterprise.com