ABOUT THE PROCESS - Nine things you need to know

Amendments to the metrics are possible through a 4 Step Process. WG plays a key part in the first two steps. WG is acting as one facilitator in the process of receiving, reviewing and discussing proposed changes in a manner that allows the Technical Groups and Boards in both states to have all the information necessary to make an informed decision.

COMPLETE PROCESS - AT GLANCE
Western Growers only facilitates STEPS 1 & 2. STEPS 3 & 4 are executed by the LGMAs in each state
STEP 1.Proposed changes and/ or comments are submitted for consideration and discussion.
STEP 2. Proposed changes and/or comments are presented to the Technical Groups in Arizona and California for review and consideration.
STEP 3. All Considered changes by these Technical groups are sent to the Arizona and/or California for review and final approval.
STEP 4. AIf any changes are approved, they become official. The leafy green document (s) and/or audit checklist are updated and distributed to interested parties

NINE THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW
1. Western Growers (WG) has developed a master calendar to facilitate web discussions aimed at reviewing Leafy Green Guidance Documents in a section by section sequence (See Master Calendar - attached below). However, emerging or key issues can be submitted at any time, even if they are not part of the section to be addressed during the upcoming web discussion.

2. WG has developed a comprehensive distribution list that includes growers, shippers, handlers, suppliers, universities and any parties or entities that have showed interest in the review of the guidance documents. Anybody can be added or removed from this list at any time by contacting Sonia Salas at ssalas@wga.com. Everybody in this distribution list will receive reminders and updates about current and upcoming web discussions and related matters.

3. Prior to scheduled web discussions, WG will open a 30-day comment period. Proposed changes should meet LGMA criteria for consideration. They should be 1) comprehensive, auditable by government auditors, 2) accompanied by a statement on how proposed changes will advance or enhance food safety, and 3) include a clear and straightforward scientific basis or rationale including citations of relevant research if available.

4. During this 30-day comment period, proposed changes will be accepted. WG may contact proponents of these changes if additional information is needed. Once all the proposed changes are gathered, WG will ask for feedback to participants in this process.

5. Any proposed language changes, suggestions and comments will be accepted by email, fax and/or online. Follow specific instructions (See General Instructions to submit changes) and send them by email to Sonia Salas at ssalas@wga.com, by fax at 949-809-6251 or online at: http://leafygreenguidelines.com/

6. After gathering proposed changes, comments and suggestions, WG will sponsor web-based meetings in an effort to minimize travel to diverse locations in California and Arizona. During these web-based meetings, WG will present proposed changes and comments for discussion.

7. WG will collect and record all recommended revisions and comments gathered after each discussion and send them to all the web-based meeting participants to confirm these were captured precisely.

8. WG will present all materials (suggestions, changes, comments, attendance records, etc.) to both California and Arizona LGMAs for their consideration.

9. Arizona and California LGMAs may act upon materials supplied by WG as they each deem appropriate.