A task force in Oregon, studying energy and water use associated with marijuana production, is likely to recommend that the state do more to educate growers about existing agricultural rules and practices, as well as back a certification process that encourages Oregon's new industry to pay closer attention how it uses natural resources.

The task force, made up of growers, agency representatives and lawmakers, is set to make recommendations to the Legislature later this summer.

Rep. Ann Lininger, D-Lake Oswego, suggested Wednesday that the panel won't propose "top down" requirements but instead will offer recommendations on the "light touch" end of the spectrum.

Indoor marijuana producers are notorious energy hogs that energy experts say could impose a big load on the regional power grid.

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Noelle Crombie ~ The Oregonian/OregonLive ~