RECOMMENDATION(S):

APPROVE and AUTHORIZE the Agricultural Commissioner, or designee, to execute a contract with the Regents of the University of California in an amount not to exceed $53,000 to provide Master Gardener Program Coordinator services for the period July 1, 2017 through June 30, 2018.

FISCAL IMPACT:

100% County

BACKGROUND:

Under the general direction of the Director of the Department of Agriculture, Contractor shall coordinate the Master Gardener Program, including managing the program budget and volunteer training and providing oversight of public outreach efforts within the County. Contractor is responsible for keeping abreast of current research in all relevant areas. Specific duties include (but are not limited) to: a. organize land implement volunteer training, b. determine volunteer advanced training needs, c. select volunteers, d. approve Master Gardener projects and evaluate for UCCE Mission appropriateness, e. ensure compliance with the US Master Gardener Administrative Handbook and Program Guidelines, f. manage the program budget, including setting fees, collecting registration money, purchasing program supplies, and g. evaluate and keep records on program efficacy and outreach efforts.