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News Release

California Department of Food and Agriculture

Media Contacts: Steve Lyle, CDFA Public Affairs, (916) 654-0462 or slyle@cdfa.ca.gov,

California Department of Food and Agriculture
Release #09-005
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DROUGHT AND WATER DELIVERY LIMITATIONS FOCUS OF STATE BOARD OF FOOD AND AGRICULTURE MEETING

Public meeting to be held Wednesday, January 21st in Sacramento


SACRAMENTO – The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will hear public testimony on the economic and social impact of the drought and water delivery limitations upon the state’s food supply at its January 21st meeting. The current statewide drought highlights the need for increased storage, improved conveyance, conservation and a reliable supply of water.


“Strong action is needed to improve our water infrastructure,” said CDFA Secretary A.G. Kawamura. “It is our communities, our businesses and our environment that is at stake.”


The meeting will be held on Wednesday, January 21, 2009 from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 N Street, Sacramento. Participants will include growers and processors, city and county officials and community representatives. Individuals concerned with the impact of drought and water delivery limitations are encouraged to attend.


“The long term viability of our farms and the environment rests on the reliability of water,” said Al Montna, President of the California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “When reductions from drought and climate change occur, we must understand the impact.”


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.


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California Department of Food and Agriculture Office of Public Affairs
1220 N St., Ste. 214, Sacramento, CA 95814
916-654-0462, www.cdfa.ca.gov