RECOMMENDATION(S):

APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Agricultural Commissioner, or designee, to execute a contract with the California Department of Food and Agriculture to pay the County an amount not to exceed $100 to enforce California seed marketing and labeling requirements for the period July 1, 2016 - June 30, 2017

FISCAL IMPACT:

This MOU will pay the department $100 for services. There is no cost share requirement and the revenue has been anticipated in the departmental FY 16/17 budget. No County match.

BACKGROUND:

The goal of seed law enforcement (Section 52288, California Food and Agriculture code) is to protect seed consumers, including vegetable and field crop growers, as well as urban landscapers. Poor quality seeds can cost farmers and home gardeners alike considerable amounts of time, money and resources, by way of reduced yields, poor crop quality, contamination by weeds or other unwanted species. By enforcing the California Seed Law regarding marketing and labeling, the Department is able to ensure that consumers receive the desired product, and that there is supportive legal action for those who are wronged.