RECOMMENDATION(S):

APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Agricultural Commissioner, or designee, to execute an agreement with the Regents of the University of California, in an amount not to exceed $114,000, for Master Gardener Program services, for the period July 1, 2022 through June 30, 2023.

FISCAL IMPACT:

Costs for the contract are budgeted in the Agriculture Department's General Fund allocation. (100% General Fund)

BACKGROUND:

Under the general direction of the Agricultural Commissioner, the contractor shall coordinate the Master Gardener Program. Local community volunteer residents trained by the University of California Division of Agriculture and Natural Resources will extend research-based horticulture to the state's home gardeners, including managing the program budget and volunteer training, and providing oversight of public outreach efforts within the County. This agreement has a mutual indemnification provision which provides that each party will defend and indemnify the other for injuries or losses arising out of the performance of the agreement.