REAL Oregon

Resource Education & Agricultural Leadership
REAL Oregon brings together current and emerging leaders from across Oregon’s natural resource sectors, including farming, ranching, forestry, fisheries, and related industries such as transportation, finance, education and government.  Our intensive professional development program equips participants with the knowledge, network, and leadership skills needed to strengthen Oregon’s natural resource communities and drive meaningful change across the state.
Apply for Class 10!Donate Today!

Our Mission

Empower current and future leaders with the knowledge, skill and collaborative mindset necessary to advocate for natural resources in their communities and beyond.

Our Vision

To cultivate and equip natural resource professionals and advocates through impactful programming, fostering leadership, knowledge, and connections. We are committed to achieving financial stability to sustain and expand our mission, ensuring a lasting impact on Oregon’s natural resource communities.

Apply for Class 10!

Apply today for one of the premier leadership programs in the natural resource industries. Join leaders from across agriculture, forestry, fisheries, and ranching to strengthen your skills, expand your network, and help shape the future of Oregon.

Washington, DC Experience!

We’re excited to again partner with Leadership Idaho Agriculture for a Washington, DC Experience in Spring 2027. We’ll be sharing a draft agenda and opening sign-ups in Fall 2026.

Information Coming Fall 2026

Donate

Support the next generation of natural resource leaders by helping keep REAL Oregon accessible to all. Your support ensures participants from every corner of the state can grow, lead, and give back to Oregon’s natural resource communities.

About Us

REAL Oregon is a project of the Oregon Agricultural Education Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization that has delivered educational programs through Oregon Farm Bureau for more than 30 years. OAEF aims to increase agricultural knowledge and understanding for all Oregonians.

Bringing together Oregon’s future leaders from agriculture, fishing and forestry is innovative and forward thinking.  REAL Oregon cultivates leaders through hands-on learning and helps them build relationships within natural resources.  I am excited to see graduates from the program use their skills to effectively promote our industry to all Oregonians.
Alexis Taylor

Director, Oregon Department of Agriculture

Target Participants

Our Competitive Selection Process Includes:

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Natural Resource/Agriculture

  • Farmers
  • Ranchers
  • Forest managers
  • Fishery specialists
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Industry

  • Processors
  • Handlers
  • Vendors
  • Crop consultants
  • Financiers
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Production

  • Mill operators
  • Miners
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Rural Communities

  • Government services
  • Community leaders
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Agencies/Universities

  • Government agencies
  • Oregon State University

Ready to Explore More About REAL OREGON?