SALC 2.0

Project Contacts:

Michael Blackmun |  AgConservation@sdcounty.ca.gov  |  619-915-9730

Project

The SALC 2.0 project aims to support existing and emerging farmers through timely market research and, in doing so, curb the premature conversion of agricultural lands. The project will also serve to inform local agencies’ decision-making to further aid, preserve, and maximize the vital contributions – economic, environmental, and public health benefits – that small-scale farms offer the region.

Solidarity Farm in Pauma Valley, CA. Photo Credit: San Diego County Food Vision 2030

Description

Declining agricultural trends in San Diego County, if not carefully addressed, will continue to negatively impact our local farming communities, our rural economies, and the larger San Diego region. In order to deliver meaningful and impactful solutions for our struggling farming communities, particularly small farms, it is critical to identify the true underlying causes specific to the San Diego region. Sustainable agriculture promotes the economic viability of agriculture while preserving natural resources and the environment, relying on detailed planning based on timely information to effectively account for present and emerging market conditions.

In December 2022, the San Diego County Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), in partnership with the County of San Diego’s (County) Planning & Development Services Department, was awarded a $450,000 Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation (SALC) planning grant as a major extension of the previous SALC grant work. The SALC Program is part of California Climate Investments, a statewide program that puts billions of Cap-and-Trade dollars to work reducing greenhouse gas emissions, strengthening the economy, and improving public health and the environment — particularly in disadvantaged communities. 

Public Workshops

The County invites you to participate in our online Virtual Public Workshop. Please register in advance for the public meeting using the link provided below.  

Tuesday, November 14, 2023 at 6PM – Project Kickoff & Crop Selection

At this meeting, staff will present an overview of the project and the approach to selecting focal crops for the market and gap analysis, as well as provide an opportunity for you to ask questions and provide your thoughts on the project.

If you would like interpretation services available at the meeting, please contact Michael Blackmun in your preferred language at AgConservation@sdcounty.ca.gov by November 10, 2023.  

Subscribe to Project Updates

To be notified of future opportunities to participate and other announcements on SALC 2.0, please contact us at AgConservation@sdcounty.ca.gov to be added to our mailing list.