The California Department of Food and Agriculture is announcing 12 vacancies on the Shipping Point Inspection Advisory Committee. The committee makes recommendations to the CDFA secretary on all matters pertaining to the department’s Shipping Point Inspection Program.

The Shipping Point Inspection Program provides third party grading and certification services to the fruit, nut and vegetable industries throughout state – ensuring that California’s specialty crops meet identified quality standards. The program supports agricultural producers, packers, shippers and processors by providing a nationally and internationally recognized grading and certification service.

Four member vacancies and eight alternate member vacancies are available. Individuals serving on the committee must be fruit or vegetable shippers that use the certification and grading services offered by the department. The term of office for committee members is three years. Members receive no compensation, but are entitled to payment of necessary traveling expenses in accordance with the rules of the Department of Personnel Administration.

Individuals interested in being considered for an appointment should send a letter of consideration and include a letter of recommendation from the industry. Nominations will be accepted until the positions are filled. Applications should be sent to Rick Jensen, California Department of Food and Agriculture, Inspection and Compliance Branch, 1220 ‘N’ Street, Sacramento, Calif., 95814, or emailed to rjensen@cdfa.ca.gov.

For further information on the Shipping Point Inspection Program and committee vacancies, contact Rick Jensen at (916) 445-2180.