TECHNICAL REVIEW COMMITTEE MEMBERS WANTED FOR 2015 SPECIALTY CROP BLOCK GRANT PROGRAM

SACRAMENTO, November 6, 2014 - California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Secretary Karen Ross is welcoming volunteers with knowledge and expertise regarding the California specialty crop industry to serve as reviewers on the 2015 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program Technical Review Committee. This committee reviews, evaluates, and makes recommendations to CDFA on proposals submitted for California Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funding.

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program conducts an annual competitive solicitation process designed to enhance the competitiveness of California specialty crops. Specialty crops include fruits and vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, horticulture, and nursery crops (including floriculture). Grant awards will range from $50,000 to $450,000 per project with a duration of up to two years and nine months.

The Technical Review Committee consists of representatives from government and non-government organizations. Technical Review Committee members will meet three times between January and May 2015 to make recommendations on concept and grant proposals. By establishing the Technical Review Committee, CDFA maintains a competitive process to ensure maximum public input and benefit.

Individuals interested in serving on the Technical Review Committee should submit their applications via email to grants@cdfa.ca.gov before December 8, 2014. Applications must include a letter of interest, short biography, and statement of qualifications identifying the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program funding category related to the applicant’s area of expertise. For a description of the funding categories, please reference the 2015 Request for Concept Proposals at www.cdfa.ca.gov/grants. In addition, prospective Technical Review Committee members will be required to disclose whether they are affiliated with any proposals submitted to the 2015 Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, whether as an applicant or cooperator. If selected, individuals will be required to complete the Form 700 Statement of Economic Interests and the Ethics Training Course.

Prospective applicants may contact CDFA’s Federal Funds Management Office at (916) 657-3231 or grants@cdfa.ca.gov for additional information. 

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