CDFA Secretary Karen Ross today announced the Department's first historically underserved and small farm advisory committees to support equity and inclusion throughout the organization's programs, policies and services. Application periods for both committees are open through June 30, 2023.
"Since 1919, CDFA has served the public along with California's farmers, ranchers and farmworkers," said Secretary Ross. "Today, our department takes a step forward in recognizing the importance of California's minority and small–scale producer communities. By establishing these committees, we are continuing a commitment to equity and inclusion within California agriculture as we work together to navigate the challenges they face. Amid the very real impacts of weather whiplash we're seeing in real–time, it's more important than ever to provide a voice for all our farming communities when it comes to CDFA's programs and policies."
The Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) Producer Advisory Committee will advise the CDFA Secretary on matters pertaining to the implementation of the Farmer Equity Act and efforts to ensure socially disadvantaged farmers and ranchers are better served through CDFA's programs, policies and communications. Committee representation includes: 6 BIPOC producers, 1 representative of a California Native American tribe; 2 non–profit organizations that represent or serve BIPOC producers; 2 academic members and 1 technical assistance provider.
Source : ca.gov