Establish an Agricultural Pass program in Yolo County, pursuant to Section 2350 of the California Food and Agricultural Code. (No general fund impact) (Izquierdo/Ledesma)

Allow the County Agricultural Commissioner, or their designee, to establish and implement an Agricultural Pass program pursuant to Section 2350 of the California Food and Agricultural Code. 

During a disastrous event, such as a fire, the Ag Pass program will provide a systematic approach to protect producers, crops, animals, and safety officials. The Agricultural Pass program will allow eligible agricultural, horticultural, or livestock producers to enter restricted areas, when deemed safe by law enforcement or fire officials, to tend to their crops or animals.  Agricultural Pass holders must meet and follow all conditions associated with the pass, including a standardized level of training and release of liability. 

The gross value of Yolo County’s agricultural production for 2023 was $901,862,000.  Multiple areas of Yolo County experience higher fire risk.   Through the development and implementation of an Ag Pass program, Yolo County can potentially help protect crops and livestock from the effects of a wildfire or similar disaster.   This program would safeguard producers' livelihood as well as support the direct economic output to the county from the agricultural operation.

The county agricultural commissioner and county agricultural commissioner staff will continue to collaborate and consult with stakeholders including, but not limited to, the Sheriff’s Department, Office of Emergency Services, CAL FIRE, and University of Cooperative Extension.