California's Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) is taking significant steps to enhance support for urban farmers, particularly in Los Angeles, as highlighted during a recent Senate Budget and Fiscal Review Subcommittee meeting. The discussions centered on the challenges faced by emerging urban farming groups in accessing vital resources and technical assistance.

A key focus was on how CDFA is engaging with community-based organizations to bridge the gap between farmers and state resources. The committee emphasized the importance of making technical assistance accessible, especially for disadvantaged urban farmers and micro-farmers who play a crucial role in providing fresh produce to local communities.

CDFA representatives outlined their commitment to equity in funding, noting that at least 25% of Proposition 68 funding is specifically allocated to disadvantaged areas. This policy aims to ensure that vulnerable populations can access grants and support programs. The agency utilizes technical assistance providers to help these communities navigate the application processes for various programs, including the certified mobile farmers market program and year-round farmers market grants.

Natalie Kraut Greenberg, Director of Inspection Services at CDFA, elaborated on the agency's approach to technical assistance. She mentioned the existence of nine advisory boards, including one dedicated to certified farmers markets, which play a vital role in guiding and supporting local farmers. Additionally, CDFA has established 16 regional educators who serve as key points of contact, offering informational sessions and open office hours to help farmers understand the application landscape and navigate the system effectively.

Despite these efforts, concerns were raised about the capacity of the support network, particularly in densely populated areas like Los Angeles, where there are approximately 11 million residents and a growing number of micro-farmers. The committee acknowledged the need for more robust infrastructure to support these farmers in establishing a sustainable market network.

As CDFA continues to refine its technical assistance programs, the focus remains on empowering urban farmers and ensuring they have the resources needed to thrive in California's agricultural landscape. The ongoing discussions signal a commitment to fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for all farmers, particularly those in underserved communities.