STATE BOARD TO DISCUSS INNOVATIONS, APPROACHES AND STEWARDSHIP RELATED TO THE NITROGEN CYCLE AT MARCH 6 MEETING

SACRAMENTO, March 2, 2012 – The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will discuss a variety of topics related to the nitrogen cycle and the proactive work by California farmers and ranchers on the issue at its upcoming meeting on March 6th in Sacramento. The meeting will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 ‘N’ Street – Main Auditorium, Sacramento, CA 95814.

“California farmers and ranchers are at the forefront of environmental stewardship related to air, water, and soil quality,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “Advances in research and technology continue to support the cutting edge environmental practices occurring in the state.”

Management of the nitrogen cycle is a key issue for farmers and ranchers. The California Department of Food and Agriculture, through the Fertilizer Research and Education Program, funds and coordinates research to advance the environmentally safe and sound use of fertilizing materials – addressing air, water and soil quality management and as well as other fertilizing issues.

Scheduled speakers for the March 6th meeting include: Tom Tomich, Agricultural Sustainability Institute; Barbara H. Allen-Diaz, University of California, Agricultural and Natural Resources; J.P. Cativiela, Dairy Cares; Paul Martin, Western United Dairymen; and Robert Curtis, Almond Board of California. Other speakers include representatives from the State Water Resources Control Board, the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and the Central Valley Regional Water Quality Control Board.

 “Great strides are being made by California’s agricultural sector in addressing on-farm practices related to the nitrogen cycle,” said President Craig McNamara, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “Challenging issues remain, but through collaboration, partnerships, and research we can work towards solutions.”

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and the CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs.  The state board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials, agricultural representative and citizens to discuss current issues of concern to California agriculture.

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