Small Farm Definition Focus of Upcoming State Board of Food and Agriculture Meeting on November 3, 2026

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture will be holding a joint meeting with the Small-Scale Producer and BIPOC Producer Advisory Committees to discuss a small farm definition for statewide consideration at its upcoming meeting on November 3, 2026. This meeting will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the California Department of Food and Agriculture, 1220 N Street - Main Auditorium, Sacramento, CA 95814.  The Board will also hear an update on agricultural items from the most recent state legislative session.  

The meeting is also available via Zoom: https://us02web.zoom.us/s/81528263163

Webinar ID: 815 2826 3163

Passcode: Board2026!

(Phone Access Passcode: 8527698184)

(Simultaneous Spanish interpretation is available via the Zoom application)

“California’s small farms represent a majority of farms within our state,” said CDFA Secretary Karen Ross. “However, this federal classification may not be best suited for California agriculture as we look at farms that supply our schools, farmers markets and local food systems.” 

Invited speakers include: Carney King, CA Department of Food and Agriculture; Justin Miller, Twin Peak Orchards; Hung Kim Doan, University of California - Small Farm Advisor (Riverside County);  and Ruth Dalhquist-Willard, University of California’s Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program. Other invited speakers include representatives from the USDA’s Economic Research Service, the American Farm Bureau Federation and the University of Toronto.

“There are many challenges in farming and food production,” said President Don Cameron, California State Board of Food and Agriculture. “From food safety, water availability and general input costs. The scale and diversity of these challenges can have greater impacts on small-scale farm operations.”

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and CDFA secretary on agricultural issues and consumer needs. The Board conducts forums that bring together local, state and federal government officials; agricultural representatives; and the public to discuss current issues and concerns to California agriculture.