STATE BOARD OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE TO DISCUSS 2008 POLICY AGENDA

SACRAMENTO – Agriculture leaders are set to address the California State Board of Food and Agriculture on policy issues impacting farmers and ranchers and provide recommendations for action to the board. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, January 30, 2008, 9:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. at the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s main auditorium, located at 1220 N Street in Sacramento.

Topics include funding for pest exclusion and prevention programs, immigration and labor, water storage and drought, sustainable agriculture, farmland conservation, climate change and air quality, food safety, renewable energy and biofuels, regulatory costs and goods movement.  These policy topics will help facilitate the board’s work plan for 2008.

Speakers will include top representatives from the Agricultural Council of California, Blue Diamond Growers, American Farmland Trust, Girard’s Salad Dressings, Western Growers Association and other organizations.

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the Governor and Secretary of Food and Agriculture of findings as they impact agriculture and consumer needs.  The board conducts forums that bring together local, state, and federal government officials, agricultural representatives, and citizens to discuss current issues of concern to California agriculture.

All California State Board of Food and Agriculture meetings are open to the media and general public.