STATE BOARD OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE TO DISCUSS DROUGHT IMPACTS

SACRAMENTO, April 27, 2009 – The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will convene a meeting with environmental organizations to discuss the statewide drought on Wednesday, April 29, 2009. The meeting will be held at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

“Bringing the agricultural and environmental industry together to discuss shared concerns is vital,” said Food and Agriculture Secretary A.G. Kawamura. “As California continues its third consecutive drought year – interests must come together to build solutions for California’s water infrastructure.”

At the meeting, the state board will hear from environmental organizations and discuss potential solutions to the impacts of the drought on Central Valley communities.  Participating organizations include: Audubon California, the Bay Institute, Ducks Unlimited, Environmental Defense, Natural Heritage Institute, and the Yosemite Association. 

As of March 2009, Central Valley farm revenue loss is estimated to range between $325 million and $477 million.

“The current regulatory drought impacting California’s Central Valley is having significant social and economic impacts within our communities,” said Al Montna, President of the California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “If there is a time for agricultural and environmental sectors to come together and recommend viable solutions to this situation it is now.”

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.

-30-