John Keller

This Agriculture Plan, developed by the Utah Agriculture Sustainability Task Force, provides a roadmap for sustainable agriculture within the State of Utah. It addresses critical issues such as urban development, economic pressures, and changing demographics. The plan is structured around eight key strategic areas: Food Security, Invasive Species, Grazing Management, Immigration, Urban Agriculture, Agriculture Promotion and Profitability, Next Generation Farms, and Irrigation Infrastructure. It outlines recommendations and actions for various governmental and private sector entities to enhance the security, economy, society, culture, and well-being of Utah's agricultural sector.

This study, led by the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food, provides a comprehensive assessment of the state's agricultural landscape, identifying key challenges, opportunities, and significant infrastructure gaps. It outlines twelve programming and funding strategies aimed at strengthening market development, producer viability, land protection, and supply chain coordination. The study serves as a roadmap to guide future investments, collaborations, and policy decisions for the long-term resilience and accessibility of Utah's food system.

The meeting addressed strategies for managing drought conditions in agricultural operations, specifically focusing on livestock and range management. Representatives from various agencies including the Farm Service Agency, Bureau of Land Management, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food discussed available programs, loan assistance for emergency situations, and long-term conservation improvements. Topics covered included livestock forage loss assistance, water transportation resources, permit flexibility for grazing allotments, and the availability of funds for infrastructure projects like water wells and fencing to improve drought resilience.

The discussion provided an update on the legislative session, which was concluding in its final week. Key legislative topics affecting agriculture that were covered included raw milk bills, a departmental cleanup bill, a predator bill, and legislation concerning cannabis, hemp, and kratom. The commissioner expressed gratitude for supporters and staff involved in these legislative efforts. Forward-looking items included monitoring floor time for bill adjustments and awaiting the release of the executive appropriation bill to see the funding allocations for all passed legislation.

The meeting included discussion and approval of the elect Ober 11 2018 board meeting minutes. A water supply report was given, discussing current conditions, snowpack, and the outlook for the winter. A feasibility report for the Davis and Weber Canal Companies was presented, addressing issues in the Kaysville area and a proposed project to install a pressure booster pump station. The Blanding City project was discussed, focusing on storm sewer system capacity and flooding issues in the city.