Title
a. Approve and authorize the Agricultural Commissioner (AC) to sign a (3) three-year Agreement for the term of July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2020, with Resources Conservation District of Monterey County (RCD), not to exceed $322,650, to provide weed abatement and erosion control service and;
b. Authorize the Auditor-Controller to make payments in accordance with the terms of the Agreement.
Report
RECOMMENDATION:
It is recommended that the Board of Supervisors:
a. Approve and authorize the Agricultural Commissioner (AC) to sign a (3) three-year Agreement for the term of July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2020, with Resources Conservation District of Monterey County (RCD), not to exceed $322,650, to provide weed abatement and erosion control service and;
b. Authorize the Auditor-Controller to make payments in accordance with the terms of the Agreement.
SUMMARY/DISCUSSION:
The RCD has been providing technical assistance and outreach for the Agricultural Commissioner since 2009. We are requesting authorization to enter a three-year agreement for a total cost of $322,650. The primary project for the RCD is the Salinas River Arundo Removal Project (21 miles of Arundo removal in riparian habitat) as a continuous weed management activity. Arundo is an invasive species in the Salinas River that consumes water and displaces native vegetation. Its removal helps to reduce flooding potential along the river’s floodplain, which is a serious concern for agriculture. RCD continues to coordinate with regulatory agencies and consultants to implement and expand the Arundo and invasive species removal program in the Salinas River Watershed.
Additionally, new services such as educational programs and videos, technical assistance and outreach, participation in regional planning efforts as they relate to agriculture, and expanded weed management activities will promote a greater understanding and protection of agriculture in the County. The RCD will continue to provide increased field assistance and reporting for the resolution of all erosion/runoff complaints received by the AC office. The RCD will also represent the agricultural community and provide input for collaborative ag water quality programs and project development in the region (e.g., Integrated Regional Water Management, Storm water Management, Ag Water Quality Alliance). Educational outreach regarding Integrated Pest Management and other sustainability and stewardship programs also will be undertaken.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
RCD supports this action.
FINANCING:
Sufficient appropriations and estimated revenues have been included in the FY 2017-18 Recommended Budget for the Agricultural Commissioner’s Office. Agreement is funded with General Fund contributions and unclaimed gas tax. Ongoing funding is subject to availability as determined through the County’s annual Adopted Budget review and approval process.
BOARD OF SUPERVISORS STRATEGIC INITIATIVES:
Activities carried out by the RCD under this agreement help maintain critical infrastructure, such as the Salinas River and County roads affected by excessive erosion. They also conserve agricultural resources and promote sustainable practices, which sustains the economic viability of agriculture.
ü Economic Development
Administration
Health & Human Services
ü Infrastructure
Public Safety
Prepared by:
Sheila Salazar, Finance Manager, 759-7381
Approved by:
Eric Lauritzen, Agricultural Commissioner, 759-7325
Attachments:
Agreement