What is COPAC?
The California Organic Products Advisory Committee (COPAC) advises the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Secretary on issues related to organic standards and enforcement, and on support for organic agriculture in California through education, outreach, technical assistance, and other industry activities. Appointed by the Secretary, committee members represent organic stakeholders, including farmers, processors, retailers, consumers, and accredited certifying agencies.
COPAC Member Bios
Philip LaRocca is the owner and winemaker of LaRocca Vineyards, a 200-acre certified-organic vineyard with the top wine production of 25,000 cases. Philip has received the 5 Master Organic Farmer Awards and was honored as the Organic Trade Association's (OTA) Organic Farmer of Year Leadership Award. His organic know-how and innovative skills in working with nature have been readily recognized by many in the wine grape industry. Philip has served as the organic grape grower representative for the Glassy-Winged Sharpshooter advisory committee and the agricultural-representative member of the Board of Supervisors for the Butte County Library System long range planning committee.
Phillip is a member of the OTA's Farmers Advisory Committee and is a member of the California Organic Products Advisory Committee (COPAC). He was also the organic agricultural representative for California under Governor Grey Davis. Currently, Philip serves as Chairman of the CCOF (California Certified Organic Farmers) Board of Directors. Philip has a Bachelor of Arts from California State University in San Jose and a master's degree from California State University, Chico.
Upcoming COPAC Meetings/Events
California Organic Products Advisory Committee (COPAC) Meeting
- January 18, 2024
