CA SB253

Establishes the California Environmental Farming Incentive Program requiring the Department of Food and Agriculture to provide incentives, educational materials, and outreach to farmers and ranchers adopting management practices that support wildlife habitat and provide multiple conservation benefits.

Creates the California Environmental Farming Incentive Program Fund in the State Treasury to receive public and private funds for program implementation, subject to Legislative appropriation.

Requires the Scientific Advisory Panel on Environmental Farming to advise on program implementation and assist government agencies in incorporating conservation of natural resources and ecosystem services practices into agricultural programs.

Expands the existing technical assistance grant program to include the new Environmental Farming Incentive Program and requires at least 25 percent of grant funds support socially disadvantaged farmers or ranchers.

Authorizes the department to provide funds for technical assistance directly to resource conservation districts, the University of California Cooperative Extension, and nonprofit organizations to support farmers and ranchers in implementing on-farm practices.