The purpose of the commission is to provide reviews and recommendations to the county manager, County Council, the Planning Commission on issues that affect agriculture in Clark County

VANCOUVER – The Clark County Council in November approved an ordinance establishing the Agricultural Advisory Commission. The purpose of the commission is to provide reviews and recommendations to the county manager, County Council, the Planning Commission and other appropriate boards and commissions on issues that affect agriculture in Clark County. The commission will also provide a forum for those in the agricultural community and others interested in enhancing and promoting the long-term sustainability of agriculture in Clark County.

The council and county manager are seeking thirteen volunteers with consideration and preference given to the following to ensure a diverse representation of various aspects of farming and the agricultural industry.

• One member from the Clark Conservation District; 
• One member from the Cowlitz Tribe; 
• One member from the agricultural processing industry; 
• One member representing the consumers of agricultural products; 
• One member who has expertise in agricultural programs; and
• The remaining eight voting members are to include agricultural producers representing both large-scale and small-scale producers of a variety of agricultural products produced in Clark County.

For the initial 2025 appointments, terms are staggered with six members appointed for two-year terms, and seven for four-year terms. 

Councilor Sue Marshall who was integral in the creation of the commission states:

”The Council’s support of an Agriculture Commission signals our commitment to ensuring a thriving future for Clark County’s local farms. Securing the advice and guidance from diverse segments of the agricultural community will help both the Council and Planning Commission shape policies that protect our farms and encourage the next generation of farmers.”

Anyone interested in volunteering should submit a brief letter of interest and résumé to Michelle Pfenning, County Manager’s Office, P.O. Box 5000, Vancouver, WA 98666-5000 or email at michelle.pfenning@clark.wa.gov.

Application deadline is 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 24, 2025.

Read the establishing ordinance and find more information on the Agricultural Advisory Commission on the county’s website at https://clark.wa.gov/councilors/clark-county-council-meetings under the Nov. 19, 2024, public hearing. 

Information provided by Clark Co. WA Communications.