1. (1) The Legislative Assembly finds and declares that the propagation and raising of Christmas trees is a silvicultural and agricultural pursuit that should be regulated and assisted by the State Department of Agriculture. A Christmas tree service shall be maintained within the department for the purpose of carrying out and enforcing the provisions of ORS 571.505 to 571.580.

2. (2) The department is authorized to:

   1. (a) Inspect the Christmas tree stock of growers.
   2. (b) Issue certificates and permits and check the license and licensing of persons required to be licensed by ORS 571.505 to 571.580.
   3. (c) Investigate violations of ORS 571.505 to 571.580.
   4. (d) Disseminate information among growers relative to treatment of Christmas tree stock for both prevention and elimination of attacks by plant pests and diseases.
   5. (e) Carry out any other duties or responsibilities which are of service to the Christmas tree industry or which may be necessary for the protection thereof.

[1985 c.197 §2; 1989 c.561 §2]