National Sustainable Agriculture Standards Committee Has Two Open Seats

Leonardo Academy is seeking applications for two vacant seats, in the environmentalist and general interest categories, on the National Sustainable Agriculture Standards Committee. Individuals or representatives of organizations focused on preserving and improving the environment, as well as labor groups, consumer groups, agricultural development NGOs, academia and other interested parties are encouraged to apply.

The 58-member Standards Committee is working to develop a national standard for sustainable agriculture under the rules of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). Its skilled, diverse membership represents a broad range of perspectives from across all areas of agriculture. The committee has six subcommittees that have been working since July 2009 to develop the structure of the standard; draft economic, environmental, and social criteria; and acquire resources relevant to sustainable agriculture for the Sustainable Agriculture Standard Reference Library.

Applications must be submitted by noon CDT on Friday, April 9. New committee members will be announced Monday, April 19. Anyone who previously applied will automatically be considered for the current positions. Beyond the committee, interested parties can participate in subcommittees or simply be an observer of the process.

To apply for one of the open committee positions or get involved in subcommittees or observation, contact Amanda Raster at amanda@leonardoacademy.org or (608) 280-0255, or visit www.leonardoacademy.org.