The Colorado Department of Agriculture has hired farmer Robert Sakata to serve as the first agricultural water policy advisor, a position which was created as a result of funding approved during the 2023 legislative session to engage with Colorado farmers and ranchers on water issues affecting agricultural users. Sakata will start in his role effective Jan. 1, 2024.
"I am beyond excited to have Robert joining our CDA team," said Commissioner of Agriculture Kate Greenberg. "His lifetime of experience in water and as a farmer, his service to the state over many decades serving on related boards and commissions, and his clear commitment to serving Colorado’s agriculture communities make him the right person at the right time. At a time when agricultural producers are facing historic challenges, Robert will bring both empathy and expertise to the table to represent CDA in supporting ag through these challenges. We look forward to seeing all that he will do in this new role."