What is OAMP?
OAMP is the USDA certified state mediation provider for the State of Oklahoma. OAMP is housed at the Institute for Dispute Resolution at Oklahoma State University. OAMP assists agricultural producers, their lenders, and other persons directly affected by the actions of USDA resolve disputes. Authorized by the Agricultural Credit Act of 1987 and Oklahoma statutes, mediation is an effective way to settle disputes in many different USDA program areas, including farm loans and farm programs, and agricultural credit issues. OAMP can also assist rural Oklahomans with resolving a wide variety of issues that affect their daily lives.
What is Mediation?
USDA agencies offer mediation to anyone who has received an adverse decision as part of the informal appeals process, in an attempt to resolve the problem early and in the most effective way. Mediation is a voluntary, confidential meeting in which a neutral mediator helps participants who are involved in a dispute discuss their disagreements, identify options that might resolve the problem, and agree on solutions. Mediators do not give legal advice and do not determine who is right or wrong. A Mediator is not a judge, and has no authority to decide the outcome. Agreements are reached based on what the participants themselves can mutually agree to do. Mediation sessions generally take 2-4 hours.
What are the Benefits of Mediation?
Mediation may settle disputes within a participant's financial means, providing a low-cost alternative to appeals or to often expensive litigation and bankruptcy. Mediation helps reduce the stress caused by lengthy litigation and unresolved conflict. Even where mediation does not result in an agreement, it often results in a better understanding of how the agency decision was reached, and preserves good working relationships between the participants.
How do I request mediation?
If you participate in a USDA program in Oklahoma, and you have received an adverse decision letter that offers mediation as an option, please call us at 1-800-248-5465 to request mediation. Our staff will answer any questions you have about the mediation process.
Other reasons to call the Institute for Dispute Resolution
IDR can also assist any rural Oklahomans with resolving a wide variety of issues. If you have a situation that does not involve USDA, we can help. If you or your organization would like to refer a case for mediation, please contact us at 1-800-248-5465 for more information and to schedule your session, or E-mail us at mediation@okstate.edu.
