California Food and Agriculture Board prepares to respond to new water strategy

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The California State Board of Food and Agriculture heard updates on water impacts to the San Joaquin Valley and innovations in floodplain reactivation at its meeting on Tuesday, May 7, 2019.

The CDFA Board listened to updates on California’s trade priorities and perspective from agricultural organizations during the 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. meeting at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 N Street – Main Auditorium, Sacramento, CA 95814.

“California farmers and ranchers, along with agricultural communities, are coping with uncertain water supplies and as we begin the process we look forward to engagement with all stakeholders and building partnerships that will produce multiple benefits.”

On April 29th, Governor Newsom issued an Executive Order directing state agencies to develop a new portfolio approach on water to protect the future health of communities and the environment.

Earlier this year, the Public Policy Institute of California (PPIC) issued a report that indicated that agricultural production in the Central Valley could shrink by 500,000 acres of irrigated farmland by 2040. Innovation and multiple-benefit approaches are needed to meet the complexities of the state’s diverse water needs.

In addition to the PPIC discussion on water impacts, the Board will also hear about a floodplain reactivation project involving the collaboration of multiple entities in Northern California. To conclude the meeting, the Board will hear from the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development on the state’s trade perspective and hear feedback from agricultural organizations.

“The Board looks forward to working with the Secretary and the Administration in the implementation of the Governor’s Executive Order,” said President Don Cameron, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “Water availability determines agricultural production in the state, which directly impacts our farming and ranching families and the communities in which they are based.”

Invited speakers include: Ellen Hanak, Public Policy Institute of California; David Guy, Northern California Water Association; Jacob Katz, California Trout; Lewis Bair, Reclamation District 108; Meghan Hertel, Audubon California; Roger Cornwell, River Garden Farms; Paul Buttner, California Rice Commission; Mark Biddlecomb, Ducks Unlimited; Bud Colligan, Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development; Julie Adams, Almond Board of California; Rayne Thompson, Sunkist Growers and Fruit Growers Supply Company; and Adam Hollowell, Bryant Christie, Inc.

Lunch was provided by Queen Sheba Restaurant, Sacramento and Dr. Berhe, world renowned plant breeder briefly shared benefits and opportunities exploring "California Grown" Teff.

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.