Danny Merkley believes that California's 2014 water bond will be helpful to preparing for a lasting drought. As the Director of Water Resources for the California Farm Bureau, Merkley represents the CFB on policy issues that directly affect managing the flow of water in California. Prior to this, Merkley earned a degree in farm management and worked the land for 17 years, during which he became involved in local politics. In 2004 he became a liaison between farmers and the State Water Resources Control Board. His expertise in water issues facing California led him to the CFB.

Merkley is a former member of the Solano County Farm Bureau board of directors. He graduated from the California Agricultural Leadership Program.