SECRETARY KAWAMURA ANNOUNCES VACANCIES ON THE CERTIFIED FARMERS’ MARKET ADVISORY COMMITTEE

SACRAMENTO – Friday, November 17, 2006 - California Department of Food and Agriculture Secretary A.G. Kawamura is announcing nine member vacancies and fourteen alternate member vacancies on the Certified Farmers’ Market Advisory Committee.  Appointments will be: five certified producer representatives, six alternate certified producer representatives, two certified farmers’ market manager representatives, two alternate certified farmers’ market manager representatives, one county agricultural commissioner representative, and one alternate agricultural commissioner representative. 

The certified producer representatives must be active in the direct sales or marketing of certified agricultural products at certified farmers’ markets.

The Certified Farmers’ Market Advisory Committee is charged with making recommendations to the secretary on legislation, regulations, enforcement issues, administrative policies and procedures pertaining to the direct marketing of agricultural products at certified farmers’ markets.  Members serve for a term of two years and receive no compensation, but are entitled to payment of travel expenses. 

Individuals interested in being considered for appointment as a member or an alternate member should send a letter of consideration and include a letter of recommendation from the industry. Nominations will be accepted until the positions are filled.  Nominations can be sent to Kevin Masuhara, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Inspection Services Division, Certified Farmers’ Market Program, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA  95814 or emailed to KMasuhara@cdfa.ca.gov.  For additional information contact Kevin Masuhara, (916) 445-2180, extension 3514.