The Kern High School District, Kern County Farm Bureau and the Kern County Department of Agriculture have joined forces to enhance communication between the farming community and the parents of Kern High School District students.
Mirroring the Healthy Schools Act requirements for pesticide use on campus, a voluntary pilot project is being implemented for advance notification of pesticide use in agriculture. Safety is our first priority and our goal is to open communication with your school to provide transparency for the health and well-being of your family.
As part of this effort, the Kern County Department of Agriculture will be holding informational meetings for parents and other members of the public regarding this program at each of the six area high schools which will be affected by the project.
Pesticides may be applied during school hours, potentially near schools. Usually growers don't apply while kids are in session, but sometimes they do. It is all based on communication with "Spray Safe" program but this program will take it a step further.
This program will notify parents and students prior to school-wide notification program. Currently a voluntary program, efforts are being made to get the program fully approved for next year. There are open hearings occurring where parents and residents can learn more about the program.
These schools are: Mira Monte, Shafter, Arvin, Independence, Golden Valley, and Frontier. The first of these meetings will be taking place tonight (8-29) between 6pm and 8pm at the Mira Monte High School cafeteria.
Further information can be obtained by calling the Kern County Department of Agriculture at 661-868-6300.
