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Agriculture, Weights and Measures Department presenting to the Board an overview of Agriculture issues in El Dorado County in concurrence with the Chief Administrative Officer, Agricultural Commission and University of California Cooperative Extension Office at the request of the Board on June 28, 2011. ( Refer 6/28/11, Item 3, Legistar File 11-0700) (Est. Time: 3 Hrs.)
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Background: Agriculture Workshop preparation began with several meetings with Departments and Industry. Issues and concerns were presented to Industry via a survey. Results will be presented by representatives from each group. Presentation topics include 1) Everyday challenges facing agricultural operations, including weather, pests and diseases; 2) Survey overview and results; 3) Water issues and concerns, the Irrigated Lands Regulatory Program and Fish Friendly Farming; 4) Incentives for land conservation and agriculture; 5) Expansion of the existing Ag Districts; 6) Vineyard soils; 7) Signage/direction to farms and agritourism destinations; 8) The extension of broadband/internet service into the rural areas; 9) Proposed changes to the Zoning Ordinance including Ag Support Services, Ag Homestays, Ag Employee Housing, Direct Marketing issues, the allowance of Dude Ranches on lands supporting grazing operations, and changes to the Right to Farm Ordinance; and 10) Information regarding a USDA Mobile Slaughterhouse.
Contact: Myrna Tow X6647