Implementation
Send a formal letter request to SMAQMD recommending an update to Rule 215 Agricultural Permit Requirements (last updated in 2010) to require any diesel-powered agricultural off-road equipment to be EPA-rated Tier 4 final models or cleaner by 2030, as feasible. Participate in SMAQMD workshops associated with updates to rules and regulations pertaining to emissions associated with agricultural equipment.
Update the County’s Federal and State Legislative Priorities report to include seeking Federal and State assistance with grants that can be used to incentivize the replacement of gas- and gas- or diesel-powered agricultural equipment with electric or sustainably fueled equivalents. Potential agencies to collaborate with include SMAQMD, SMUD, resource conservation districts, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, CARB, and EPA.
Timeframe: Midterm
GHG Reduction Potential: Not quantified
Sectors: Agriculture and Vehicles - Off-Road
Target Indicator: Publication of documents described in the implementation section within the specified timeframes. Participation of County staff at public and interagency SMAQMD meetings relevant to the adoption of revised rules for agricultural sector emissions. Formal letter request to SMAQMD by March 2023. Workshop attendance as needed. Federal and State assistance for agricultural grants to be included in the 2023 update to the annual Federal and State Legislative Priorities report.
Status of Implementation
The County routinely coordinates and partners with SMAQMD and SMUD and has focused its efforts on energy efficiency, regional grant coordination, and establishment of the County's carbon farming program.
The County's adopted legislative priorities are published on the internet for 2023-2024. The County's federal legislative priorities contain a sustainability platform to: “Support funding to enhance local climate mitigation and adaptation efforts, including efforts in partnership with local agencies and jurisdictions, including the Sacramento Municipal Utility District, other regional agencies and associations, and the region's environmental and social justice member organizations."
The County is participating in the SMAQMD U.S. EPA CPRG grant application for the region and is leading a regional working group on carbon farming and sequestration in support of the process. Through the CPRG process, the County and region have prioritized natural and working lands as a pillar of the climate solution and will be working to identify projects aimed and reducing agricultural emissions while supporting farmers and ranchers.
Updated 7/5/24.
