Boardman, OR - In a letter from Oregon Deputy Attorney General Peter D. Shepherd, the State of Oregon rejected demands from the Humane Farming Association (HFA) to prosecute Columbia River Dairy for alleged animal cruelty - citing a recent thorough investigation by the Morrow County Sheriff's Office, which concluded the HFA complaints were "unfounded". (see attached letter)

Additionally, the Attorney General's office supported Oregon Department of Agriculture's (ODA) findings that all milk from the dairies on Threemile Canyon Farms is certified "Grade A", and completely safe for human consumption. The ODA's conclusions of milk safety and herd health were based on frequent milk samples (four times every six months) throughout the dairies' operations.

"We are pleased that the Oregon Department of Justice, Oregon Department of Agriculture, District Attorney and Morrow County Sheriff's Office all agree that these outrageous charges are without any basis in fact", said Marty Myers General Manager of Threemile Canyon Farms, upon receiving a copy of the Attorney General's letter. "HFA's unfounded charges were insulting to our hard working, valuable employees who care for our livestock using best practices to assure the health of the herd."

"Hopefully the Humane Farming Association's reckless disregard for the truth will not cause irreparable damage to consumer confidence in the safety of Oregon's agricultural products or the high standards Oregon dairies practice in preserving animal welfare" said Myers.

HFA has made similar allegations in Washington State (2001) regarding a slaughterhouse - and South Dakota (2005) - regarding hog farming - that had proven false when state or federal authorities looked closely at the charges.

Threemile Canyon Farms

Threemile Canyon Farms

Threemile Canyon Farms blends one of the region's largest dairy operations with extensive production of potatoes and other crops. Recognized as a leader in sustainable agricultural practices, Threemile Canyon Farms is an Oregon-based joint venture owned by R.D. Offutt Company-Northwest and Bos family Oregon Farms. For additional information, visit our website: www.threemilecanyonfarms.com

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