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http://www.siskiyoudaily.com/opinions/letters_to_the_editor/x319046290/How-does-the-Farm-Bureau-need-to-change

How does the Farm Bureau need to change?

by Craig Chenowith, rancher Siskiyou Daily News, Letter to the Editor October 24, 2011

Scott Valley — I have asked the question in the past about what has Farm Bureau done for you, but now it is more of the question, “Does Farm Bureau need a change?”

Let’s look at some facts: The current president is also on the board for the Montague Water District ... conflict of interest? The first vice president is so busy traveling around promoting social media he is never home to work on the “family” ranch. The executive director is married to the second vice president. She can’t seem to keep the office open on a regular basis for the measly 15 hours a week it is open. There are three board members who seem to be bought and paid for by the Siskiyou RCD – yet another conflict.

Another board member serves on as many boards throughout the county as possible. A board member has started working with CalTrout and other enviro agencies to reintroduce (non-native) fish into the Shasta Valley. Another board member is on the board for the Water Master program – there has got to be a conflict with that one!

Then there are two more members who seem to do nothing but attend a meeting once or twice a year and can say they are working hard for our private property rights.

Farm Bureau’s own bylaws state in Article II section 2 (I) That each member of the Board of Directors of the County Farm Bureau shall be an agriculture member of the County Farm Bureau and shall either (i) derive a substantial portion of his or her gross income from farming operations, including as an owner, lessor, lessee, manager, officer or substantial shareholder of a corporate entity, in California in the year when elected or during the five-year period prior to the election or (ii) have his or her principle occupation in the farming industry in California in the year when elected.

How many of the above mentioned board of directors fall under this bylaw requirement?

The Siskiyou County Farm Bureau’s annual meeting of the members is being held Nov. 10.

It is time for everyone to stand up and make your voice heard. There needs to be a change and Nov. 10 is the day to make that change. Stand up and say no dam removal, no monument, no ITP, no 1600 permit – no, no, no!