Title
a. Approve and authorize the Agricultural Commissioner (AC) to sign a two-year (2) Agreement with Resources Conservation District of Monterey County (RCD), not to exceed $215,000, 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 two-year (2) Agreement with Resources Conservation District of Monterey County (RCD), not to exceed $215,000, 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 AC since 2009. We are requesting authorization to enter a two-year (2) agreement for a total cost of $215,000. 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, 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 re...
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