Media Contact: Steve Lyle, Office of Public Affairs, (916) 654-0462, steve.lyle@cdfa.ca.gov
Trial program to begin June 2001
SACRAMENTO, June 14, 2001 - Under a United States Department of Agriculture – Farm Service Agency grant, the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) announces the creation of a new certified Agricultural Mediation Program.
The Certified California Agricultural Mediation Program allows growers to mediate problematic issues involving a variety of agricultural issues, including compliance with USDA farm programs and agricultural credit. There is no cost to the grower for this service.
The mediation process focuses on conflict resolution in a highly confidential setting. Trained mediators assist both parties to develop a workable solution to their specific issue. All agreed upon terms are documented, and each party signs an enforceable contract. The mediation process typically takes approximately 30 to 60 days from the date of request until an agreement is achieved.
A trial program is scheduled to begin this month. If the program is successful and growers are supportive of the program the CDFA will apply for certification for longer-term certification.
For more information on the program, please contact CDFA’s Office of Public Affairs at 916/654-0462 or Lynn A. Morgan, Chief of the Marketing Branch, at 916/654-1245 or email at ccamp@cdfa.ca.gov.
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FLEX YOUR POWER. To meet California’s energy challenge, CDFA urges businesses and consumers to conserve. For a list of simple ways that you can reduce demand and cut your energy costs, see our Web site @www.cdfa.ca.gov.