MODESTO – The Modesto Area Partners in Science (MAPS) is offering the presentation “California Agriculture at the Interface of Climate Change” by Amrith Gunasekara, Ph.D., Science Advisor for the California Department of Food and Agriculture. 

 The science event is Friday, April 7, at 7:30 p.m. in Sierra Hall 132 on Modesto Junior College’s West Campus and both the program and parking are free.

Gunasekara will discuss agricultural issues arising from climate change and share research into possible solutions. 

In his role as the science advisor to the secretary of the California Department of Food and Agriculture, Gunasekara works on agricultural issues as they relate to the environment and seeks to find proactive, creative, flexible and practical solutions. His focus areas include plant nutrient management, climate change and environmental stewardship. 

Gunasekara is the CDFA liaison to the Environmental Farming Act Science Advisory Panel which is looking at highlighting the many benefits afforded by agriculture beyond food, fiber and economic benefits. He has been in his CDFA position since August 2011.

After receiving his undergraduate and master’s degrees from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, Gunasekara completed a Ph.D. in agricultural and environmental chemistry at the University of California, Davis. 

The MAPS event is intended for people over 12 years of age.  MAPS programs are made possible by contributions from ASMJC, the MJC Foundation and the MJC STEM program.

For more information about the MAPS program visit the website http://maps.events.mjc.edu/, the Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/pages/Modesto-Area-Partners-in-Science/244618054801.