Industry

The first entity created by the growers of hazelnuts was the equivalent to the Nut Growers Society and began an Annual Meeting tradition in 1915. Through the years the industry leaders have added three other organizations with specific responsibilities. They have kept the organizations united and enjoyed efficiencies by having one industry office.

Nut Growers Society of Oregon, Washington and British Columbia (NGS)
The Nut Growers Society (NGS) is a membership organization made up of growers and others interested in supporting the hazelnut industry. NGS membership is $100 per year. The governing board is made up of five growers, plus an ex-officio extension agent and industry staff. This group is the information arm of the industry, providing feedback to growers from both the Hazelnut Marketing Board (HMB) and the Oregon Hazelnut Commission (OHC).

Hazelnut Marketing Board (HMB)
The Hazelnut Marketing Board (HMB) was established in 1949 by the growers and handlers of hazelnuts. It is governed by the Federal Hazelnut Marketing Order §982 and funded by a per ton assessment to the handlers. HMB is responsible for promotion, marketing, industry statistics and ensuring quality standards are met.

Oregon Hazelnut Commission (OHC)
The Oregon Hazelnut Commission (OHC) is a Commodity Commission and agency of the State of Oregon under the Oregon Department of Agriculture. It was formed by legislative action in 1951. The charge of the OHC is to provide production research for the hazelnut industry. Members are appointed by the Director of Agriculture and include seven growers and one public member. Funding for the Commission is a per-ton assessment determined by and collected from the growers via the handlers.

Associated Oregon Hazelnut Industries (AOHI)
This is a voluntary group made up of growers and handlers who deal with legislative and political issues that may impact the industry, but may not be under the purview of the other industry organizations. This group is funded with contributions on an as needed basis and is administered by the executive director of the industry office.