ADVOCACY REPORT
Ag & Water Programs in the State Budget Other water and agricultural programs in the state budget continue to be a focus of Ag Council support, as well, such as: groundwater recharge projects, canal repairs for the Friant-Kern Canal, Delta-Mendota Canal & the California Aqueduct, the Pollinator Habitat Program, Healthy Soils Program, SWEEP (irrigation technologies), and FARMER (upgrading ag equipment engines). Governor Newsom has provided funds for each these programs within his proposed budget plan, and we will know the outcomes once budget negotiations conclude this summer. Given the success of these programs in assisting farmers and food processors in attaining the high environmental standards set by California, our support is an ongoing effort. Ag Council looks forward to continuing to work on your behalf on crucial state policy issues, so you can focus on and thrive in your business. Please contact me at emily@agcouncil.org with any comments or questions.
Blue Diamond Growers was successfully awarded a FPIP grant in 2019 to modernize a steam boiler system for plant production and sanitation at its Sacramento facility. The over $746,000 grant covers more than half of the upgraded equipment costs. The boiler system is set to save 1,350 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions (GHGs) per year, equivalent to the amount of carbon sequestered by 21,000 trees for 10 years. Additionally, it is saving up to 250,000 Therms per year, equivalent to 149,000 gallons of gasoline consumed and 47,000 kWh per year, equivalent to 169 million smartphones charged. Importantly, 85 percent of FPIP funding is going toward projects located in disadvantaged and low-income communities in California and lowering emissions in these critical areas. The return on investment for the state is substantial with the Energy Commission highlighting FPIP as placing in the top 10 of all 71 California Climate Investment programs in terms of total greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions and cost per ton of GHG. Ag Council is leading the effort to support Governor Newsom’s allocation of $85 million in the state budget for FPIP. We greatly appreciate his commitment to this program and are actively urging legislators to provide this funding in the state budget.
Emily Rooney, President, Ag Council
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ALMOND FACTS
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