The Board may make investigations, conduct hearings and prosecute actions concerning any matter or subject which is under CDFA's jurisdiction. During 1997, the State Board played an important role in addressing major issues affecting both agriculture and the citizens of this state. These public forums addressed flood damages from winter storms, food safety, urbanization, environmental issues, pest prevention strategies and future trends in agriculture. The Board's 15 members are appointed by the Governor, and are carefully selected to represent a broad range of agricultural commodities, a variety of geographic regions, and both the University of California and the California State University academic systems. Board members are residents and citizens of California and are specially qualified for service through actual farm, business, economic agricultural training, environmental protection or consumer affairs experience.
Members serve four-year terms without pay.
There are no term limits and appointments do not require Senate confirmation.