California Board of Equalization Member George Runner will host a telephone town hall for members of California’s agricultural industry at 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 4.

The free event, co-hosted by the California Farm Bureau, will provide information on tax issues important to the agricultural industry and those who sell farm and related supplies.

Central Valley Sens. Anthony Cannella and Andy Vidak will also join the call.

Sen. Cannella serves as the vice chairman of both the Senate Agriculture and Senate Natural Resources and Water Committees. In addition to his legislative duties, Sen. Vidak is a farmer and rancher, growing cherries in Kings County and raising cattle in Tulare County.

“At a time of extreme drought and water shortages, California’s agricultural industry needs all the help they can get,” said Runner. “My goal is to assist farmers, ranchers and business owners by helping them understand California’s complicated tax laws. As their elected taxpayer advocate, I want to hear their concerns and answer their questions.”

Those wishing to participate may register online at www.boe.ca.gov/townhall or by calling 916-324-4970.

Individuals who preregister will receive a telephone call at the start of the event inviting them to connect to the town hall.

The town hall will address such topics sales and use tax, partial farming exemptions, and sales of feed and animals.

Further information on these and other relevant tax issues is available at www.boe.ca.gov/industry/agriculture .

Elected in November 2010, George Runner represents more than nine million Californians as a member of the State Board of Equalization.

For more information, visit www.boe.ca.gov/Runner .