FRUIT FLIES, DROUGHT AND FLOOD RELIEF PROGRAMS TOP ISSUES FOR STATE BOARD OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE MEETING ON OCTOBER 3rd

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SACRAMENTO, September 26, 2023 - The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will discuss pest and diseases issues impacting current-year crops at its upcoming meeting on Tuesday, October 3rd.  In addition, the board will hear updates on California’s Small Agricultural Business Drought and Flood Relief Grant Program. The meeting will be held from 10:00a.m. to 2:15p.m. at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 N Street – Main Auditorium, Sacramento, CA 95814.

The meeting is also available via Zoom at: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82813692996

Webinar ID: 828 1369 2996
Passcode: Board2023!
(Phone Access Passcode: 4965065975)
 
(Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is available via the Zoom application)
 
“It has been a challenging year for agricultural pest and disease issues,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “We’ve seen a significant uptick in detections, fruit flies in particular, that endanger a variety of fruits, nuts and vegetables. CDFA, along with federal and local counterparts, are at the front lines in protecting commercial and residential production from these pests.”

Invited speakers include: Director Tara Lynn Gray, California Office of the Small Business Advocate; Lauren Fann, Almond Board of California; Mary Zischke, Grower-Shipper Association of Central California; Mike Montna, California Tomato Growers Association; Aaron Lange, LangeTwins Family Winery and Vineyard; Cherie Watte Angulo, CAGROWN; Andrew Cline and Joshua Kress, CDFA Plant Health and Pest Prevention Services; Deputy Secretary Rachael O’Brien, California Department of Food and Agriculture and other invited speakers.
 
“Climate has a lot to do with the on-farm pest and disease challenges we are facing,” said President Don Cameron, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “Unseasonable weather including the remnants of Hurricane Hilary did damage and prevented products from reaching consumers. How we address the changing dynamics of farming and disasters associated climate change is critical to maintaining an affordable food supply for all consumers.”

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs. The board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials; agricultural representatives; and citizens to discuss current issues and concerns to California agriculture.
 
Follow the board on X at: www.twitter.com/Cafood_agboard
 

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