ROBOTIC MILKING COW, FISH IN AQUACULTURE AMONG DISPLAYS AT CALIFORNIA AG DAY AT THE STATE CAPITOL ON MARCH 19

WHAT:  On Wednesday, March 19, The California Department of Food and Agriculture will partner with the California Women for Agriculture and the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom to host the annual California Ag Day. This year’s theme is, “Common Ground: Celebration, Innovation, Education.” Exhibits will include advances in aquaculture and a demonstration of robotics featuring an electronic milking cow named Buttercup.

Ag Day will recognize the centennial anniversary of the University of California’s Office of Agriculture and Natural Resources, which has helped stimulate a culture of innovation in California agriculture during its 100-year history of bringing knowledge from academic research laboratories to farmers and ranchers throughout California. The event will also include the announcement of a new partnership between CA Grown and Visit California - celebrating the collaboration between farmers and chefs to make California a culinary destination for millions.

WHEN:  Wednesday, March 19, 2014

10:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. ~ Legislators and staff tour booths

11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.  ~ Open to the public

WHO:   CDFA Secretary Karen Ross

California Women for Agriculture President Lynn Figone

California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom Executive Director Judy Culbertson

University of California Office of Agriculture and Natural Resources President Barbara Allen-Diaz

Visit California President and CEO Carolyn Beteta

California Farm Bureau Federation First Vice-President Kenny Watkins

WHERE:  California State Capitol Building, west steps

WHY:  Ag Day is an annual event to recognize California’s agricultural community by showcasing the numerous commodities that are produced in our state.  It is also a day for the agricultural community to show its appreciation by bringing together state legislators, government leaders and the public for agricultural education and healthy treats.

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