The California’s State Board of Food and Agriculture will host a number of distinguished panelists to discuss how California horse racing, agriculture and fairs are all connected. The event will take place on Wednesday, August 29, 2007, 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., in the satellite wagering facility clubhouse at the California State Fair, located at Cal Expo, 1600 Exposition Blvd., Sacramento.

“Our state and county fairgrounds are fortunate to host many horse racing and satellite wagering facilities,” said CDFA Secretary A.G. Kawamura, “and these attractions play mutually beneficial roles.”

“Horse racing has a proud history in California, as does agriculture, and the two have always been interwined,” said State Board of Food and Agriculture President Al Montna. “The fair is a fitting place to bring these two elements of California’s rich rural history together.”

Panel presentations will include topics such as industry perspective on how horse racing fits into agriculture; equine issues; industry partners; history of horseracing and fairs in California; future of horseracing at fairs and the importance of the equine industry in fairs; National Agricultural Statistics Service perspective, and an update on the Williamson Act.

The California State Board of Food and Agriculture advises the governor and secretary of food and agriculture of findings as they impact agriculture and consumer needs. The board conducts forums that bring together local, state, and federal government officials, agricultural representatives, and citizens to discuss current issues of concern to California agriculture.

All California State Board of Food and Agriculture meetings are open to the media and general public. -The California’s State Board of Food and Agriculture