Duties and powers of commission; rules

(1) Consistent with the general purposes of this chapter, the Oregon Wheat Commission shall establish the policies to be followed in accomplishing those purposes. (2) In the administration of this chapter, the commission has the following duties, authorities and powers: (a) To conduct a campaign of research, education and publicity. (b) To lease, purchase or own the real or personal property deemed necessary in the administration of this chapter. (c) To adopt rules as described in ORS 578.060 regarding the payment of per diem allowance and expenses of commission members while actually engaged in the performance of official duties, including necessary travel time. (d) To find new markets for grains and grain products. (e) To give, publicize and promulgate reliable information showing the value of grains and grain products for any useful and profitable purpose. (f) To make public and encourage the widespread national and international use of Oregon grains and grain products. (g) To investigate and participate in studies of the problems peculiar to the grain producers in Oregon. (h) To take such action as the commission deems necessary or advisable in order to stabilize and protect the grain industry of the state and the health and welfare of the public. (i) To levy assessments. (3) In addition to exercising the powers listed in subsection (2) of this section, the commission may exercise the same powers that a commodity commission may exercise under ORS 576.304 (1) and (3) to (14) or 576.306.