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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE - Agricultural Commissioner Thomas A. Moss
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Requested Action(s)
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a) AGREEMENT - Request approval and authorization for the Agricultural Commissioner and the Public Works Director to sign the Interagency Memorandum Of Understanding for the purpose of providing noxious weed control for Tehama County Public Works with a maximum compensation not to exceed $35,000, effective 5/1/26 through 6/31/27
b) Request adoption of the finding that this Tehama County Noxious Weed Eradication Program is not subject to review under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) pursuant to CEQA Guidelines sections 15307 and 15308; and authorization for the Agricultural Commissioner to file the Notice of Exemption
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Financial Impact:
Revenue to be received this FY 25/26 was not included in the Department’s budget. Revenue to be received will be included in the Department’s FY 26/27 budget.
Background Information:
The Tehama County Department of Agriculture (The Department) and Tehama County Public Works (Public Works) share responsibility for managing vegetation and maintaining safe, accessible public infrastructure throughout the county. A significant portion of this work involves the identification, treatment, and monitoring of state listed noxious weeds along county roadways. Effective weed management is essential to protect agricultural resources, preventing the spread of invasive species, reducing fire risk, and maintaining compliance with state and federal regulations.
The Department and Public Works have previously established MOUs for the Department to perform vegetation management along county roadsides. This MOU will revive cooperation between the two departments to improve safety and mitigate the spread of noxious weeds, by establishing a clear framework for collaboration, outlining responsibilities, service expectations, and cost arrangements.
The Department will provide specialized services including weed identification, mapping, herbicide application, monitoring, and handler training in accordance with state pesticide use enforcement laws and best management practices. Public Works will support the program by providing access to treatment sites, coordinating with road maintenance crews, herbicide application, and funding the contracted services as outlined in the scope of work.
The MOU enables both departments to streamline operations and reduce duplication. Regular and targeted treatments will enhance line of sight for motorists, cyclists, and maintenance crews, reducing visibility hazards at intersections and along rural roads. Clearing invasive vegetation will allow better access and ability to maintain culverts, guardrails, and pavement edges, while extending the life of county infrastructure. Furthermore, reducing dense roadside vegetation diminishes the likelihood of vehicle and wildlife collisions, improving overall public safety.