PORTLAND (AP) — Oregon’s recycling rates fell for the second straight year in 2007, with Oregonians recycling less than half of the state’s trash.

The Department of Environmental Quality’s annual report pegged the statewide recycling rate at 46.7 percent of trash generated in 2007, down from 47.3 percent in 2006 and 49.2 percent in 2005.

The state goal is 50 percent by 2009. Rates generally have risen since 1992 until 2006.

Regulators say they expect better numbers for 2008 with shifts to recycling roll carts and the Metro regional government implements plans to boost construction and business recycling.

The Metro rate, which includes Clackamas, Multnomah and Washington counties, fell to 55.3 percent in 2007, down from 55.6 percent in 2006.