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I am a custom farm operator in Tulare County, and farm acreage both
small and large acreage for many different types of crops.  

I provide farm management services for orchards, vineyards, row
crops, and perform ground work, and re-develop ground for new
plantings.  

Burning is a practice that has been around for the last 160 years,
and as Mr. Florez stated, it has a long history in California as a
tool for farmers.  

Recognizing that we face many business and environmental
regulations in this state, we appreciate the SJVAPCD's willingness
to work with us on a progressive phase out.   Another 3 years will
be critical for us to adapt. 

Small farms bear a disproportionate burden in finding a cost
effective alternative.  There is no equity in this process when
your acreage base is so small that redevelopment costs become out
of reach. 

The Sustainable Groundwater Management Act also creates a lot of
uncertainty about planting new orchards, re-developing old acres,
and removing trees and vines.  Lack of water in the Central Valley
will change the landscape of our future planting strategies, and
removing the option to burn creates a significant economic
hardship.  

I have 3 small children, my home is in Tulare County, and I  live
along the eastern farm belt and enjoy the beautiful views of the
Sierra Nevada Mountain Range.   I want clean air for my children
too, but I also have to have a range of tools for my farming
business and for my clients. 

I support the phase out over the next three years, and support the
staff report to phase out through 2025 while the industry works
with the state and the SJVAPCD to find funding incentives and cost
effective alternatives.  

Thank you.