On Thursday, the RCRC Executive Committee took action to officially endorse the appointment of Karen Ross as the Secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA). In January 2019, Secretary Ross was reappointed to serve as the Secretary of CDFA by Governor Gavin Newsom. Secretary Ross was initially appointed by Governor Jerry Brown Jr. in 2011.
Secretary Ross has always been very accessible and sympathetic to RCRC member county concerns, and has worked with RCRC staff on issues relating to environmental stewardship to find workable solutions. Secretary Ross has unmatched leadership experience in agricultural issues nationally, internationally, and in California. Secretary Ross’ confirmation by the State Senate is likely to occur later this spring.
In March, the RCRC Board of Directors adopted a new policy to offer a support position for Gubernatorial appointees during the California State Senate’s confirmation process.