The opinions expressed by columnists are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Crescent City Times.com CDFA News Release – Sacramento – March 2, 2026 The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will hear updates on current water conditions and issues related to water availability at its upcoming meeting on Tuesday, March 3, 2026. The meeting will be held from 10:00am to 2:00pm at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 N Street – Main Auditorium, Sacramento, CA 95814. In addition to water issues, the Board is scheduled to hear an update on CDFA’s Climate Resilience Strategy. The meeting is also available via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88245363086 Webinar ID: 882 4536 3086 Passcode: Board2026! (Phone Access Passcode: 7766367700) (Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is available via the Zoom application) “Recent weather has benefited our water outlook for the summer months,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “However, ongoing water supply reliability for farms, cities and the environment is needed. Discussions on groundwater management, storage, recharge and flood capture are critical as we look at our water future.” Invited speakers include: Director Karla Nemeth, California Department of Water Resources; Tomo Kumahira, WaterOne.ai; Fritz Durst, Sites Project Authority; Martha Volkoff, California Department of Fish and Wildlife; representatives from the Water Blueprint for the San Joaquin Valley; Groundwater Demand Management Network; Tulare Irrigation District and other invited speakers. “ It is an understatement that issues surrounding California water has a lot of complexities,” said President Don Cameron, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “By providing California farmers and ranchers transparency in the process and a better understanding of the policies and actions being taken to conserve and manage water – the better our system will be.” The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs. The Board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials; agricultural representatives; and citizens to discuss current issues and concerns to California agriculture. CDFA’s Mission: To safeguard a resilient food system and promote an equitable marketplace, cultivating a California grown food supply that is globally recognized for innovation, quality and sustainability.