CDFA ANNOUNCES VACANCIES ON THE CERTIFIED FARMERS’ MARKET ADVISORY COMMITTEE

SACRAMENTO, November 19, 2010 — The California Department of Food and Agriculture is announcing nine member vacancies and 14 alternate member vacancies on the Certified Farmers’ Market Advisory Committee.  The advisory committee has a total of 15 members and 15 alternate members. The current vacancies are the result of expiring terms.

The Certified Farmers’ Market Advisory Committee makes recommendations to the department concerning legislation, regulations, enforcement and administrative policies and procedures pertaining to the direct marketing of agriculture products at certified farmers’ markets.

Positions are available in the following categories: certified producer representatives, certified farmers’ market manager representatives, major direct marketing representatives, and public member representatives.  All certified producer representatives must be active in the direct sales or marketing of certified agricultural products at certified farmers’ markets. Terms will commence on January 23, 2011.

California has more than 2,200 certified agricultural producers participating in approximately 700 certified farmers’ markets within the state. The Certified Farmers’ Market Advisory Committee recommends the annual budget and fees to provide enforcement services for the program. The committee generally meets twice a year in Northern California. Members receive no compensation, but are entitled to receive reimbursement of necessary travel expenses. The term of office for a committee member is two years.

Individuals interested in being considered for an appointment should send a letter of consideration and include letters of recommendation from individuals involved with California’s certified farmers’ markets. Nominations will be accepted until positions are filled.  Nominations can be sent to Maria Hicks, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Inspection Services Division, 1220 N Street, Sacramento, CA 95814 or emailed to mhicks@cdfa.ca.gov.

For further information on the California’s Certified Farmers’ Market Program and available vacancies, please contact Steve Patton at (916) 445-2180.

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