Agenda - 02-09-2006-9a - Laserfiche WebLink

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growing issues associated with genetically modified crops, particularly the liability issues associated with seed 15 drift. Mandell suggested that the information paper should include the following topics: 1. Changes in seed quality (genetically altered seeds;) 2. Corporate controls on organics (patents on seeds); 3 Need for local food standards rather than depending on national or other controls. Kleese noted that there are liabilities related to organic and non-organic farming involving genetic drift from one farm to another, He suggested that the county might wish to promote education on the liabilities platform-- protecting any farmer who may wish to grow crops that are not genetically modified. Morrow cautioned the APB on taking positions on political issues or on offering technical papers that ma.y be beyond their expertise. Stancil asked for additional instruction on what to include in the "issue paper." Members focused on the liability issues associated with seed drift. Mandell noted that there is frequent media coverage on this issue. Wynn asked for clarification on the liability. Kleese explained that; when an organic farmer grows a certified organic crop and a neighboring farm's genetic variety crop pollen blows over onto the organic crops, the organic farmer looses market status value to sell his product in the organic market. The organic farmer might also be penalized with accusations of falsely acquiring the genetic variety of seed. There needs to be recourse for farmers who want to access the organic market to get damages if they are genetically trespassed upon. Jacobs pointed out another liability issue for farmers is that seed companies could claim that they own your crops if they found their genes in your field. Kleese noted that the BOCC had adopted a resolution against the house bill that would prevent a county from banning certain genetically engineered crops, The bill gave the authority to the state only. Modifications to the bill included the formation of a study committee to uncover the facts. Members agreed an information paper would be consistent with the APB 's mission but that a statement of position or a recommendation paper would not. The issue paper was intended as an information gathering/sharing document. Members discussed different views of the APB's role in advising the county commissioners on this issue. Mandell suggested that the board would benefit from viewing the video, The Future of Food. Staff was instructed to draft appropriate awareness paper that speaks to the issue of farm liability threats for APB discussion at a future meeting. c. Agricultural Development and Farmland Enabling Act At a previous meeting, members discussed that under the new VFPO ordinance, the board is made up of one representative for each district, six at-large representatives and a BOCC liaison. There are currently vacancies for the White Cross District, Cane CreeWt3uckhorn District and the Caldwell District as well as four at-large seats with second terms coming to end. (Terms run for two appointments of three years each.) Members also discussed contacting possible candidates to contact fo fill vacancies.. Stancil reviewed the new legislation (H 607), which could provide another tier to the VAD program. He asked members to think about possible aspects for discussion at the next meeting. Members agreed to defer this item until a later time. d. Agricultural Center Work Group status report Kleese reported on the previous evening meeting with the Agricultural Center Work Group. The group is focusing on identifying short-term goals and long-term goals for the farming community. Public outreach efforts are planned for February 14 at the Agricultural Summit and for February 15 at the Southern Human Services Center. The second forum will focus on collecting input from consumers in the southern part of the county. APB members are encouraged to participate in both outreach sessicns, e. February 14, 2006 Agricultural Summit Kleese reported topics planned for the Agricultural Summit. Smithson Mills will be the keynote speaker and will speak on value-added partnerships. Other topic include speakers on biodiesel, growing and marketing for new specialty niche markets, and updates on local programs. Members were encouraged to attend the event, which will be held at the usual location, the Schley Grange facility. f, ChairlVice-Chair Elections in February Stancil reminded the board that annual elections are scheduled for February ac g. Joint meeting with young farmers to hear their needs and ideas ow,F1 ~ao~ary ~z zooo aon~mrw vreservmion eoam mcaino summory Page 2 of 3