Agricultural Marketing Service 2014 – Federal Register Recent Federal Regulation Documents

Results 51 - 100 of 137
Oranges and Grapefruit Grown in Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas; Change in Size and Grade Requirements for Grapefruit
Document Number: 2014-15594
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-07-03
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim rule that relaxed the minimum size and grade requirements prescribed for grapefruit under the marketing order for oranges and grapefruit grown the Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas (order). The interim rule relaxed the minimum size requirement for grapefruit from 3-5/16 inches to 3 inches in diameter and reduced the minimum grade requirement for small-sized grapefruit. This rule provides additional grapefruit to meet market demand, helping to maximize fresh shipments.
Cotton Board Rules and Regulations: Adjusting Supplemental Assessment on Imports (2014 Amendment)
Document Number: 2014-14991
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-06-26
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposed rule is a companion document to the Agricultural Marketing Service's (AMS) direct final rule (published today in the ``Rules and Regulations'' section of the Federal Register), amending the Cotton Board Rules and Regulations by decreasing the value assigned to imported cotton for calculating supplemental assessments collected for use by the Cotton Research and Promotion Program. An amendment is required to adjust the value assigned to imported cotton and the cotton content of imported products so that it is the same as those paid on domestically produced cotton. AMS is publishing this amendment as a direct final rule without prior proposal because the agency is contemplated by statute and required by regulation in 7 CFR 1205.510 and anticipates no significant adverse comment. AMS has explained its reasons in the preamble of the direct final rule. If AMS receives no significant adverse comment during the comment period, no further action on this proposed rule will be taken. If, however, AMS receives significant adverse comment, AMS will withdraw the direct final rule and it will not take effect. In that case, AMS will address all public comments in a subsequent final rule based on this proposed rule. AMS will not institute a second comment period on this rule. Any parties interested in commenting must do so during this comment period.
Cotton Board Rules and Regulations: Adjusting Supplemental Assessment on Imports (2014 Amendment)
Document Number: 2014-14988
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-06-26
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is amending the Cotton Board Rules and Regulations, decreasing the value assigned to imported cotton for the purposes of calculating supplemental assessments collected for use by the Cotton Research and Promotion Program. This amendment is required each year to assure that assessments collected on imported cotton and the cotton content of imported products will be the same as those paid on domestically produced cotton.
Avocados Grown in South Florida and Imported Avocados; Clarification of the Avocado Grade Requirements
Document Number: 2014-14405
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-06-23
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposed rule invites comments on changes to the minimum grade requirements currently prescribed under the Florida avocado marketing order (order) and a technical correction to the avocado import regulation. The order regulates the handling of avocados grown in South Florida, and is administered locally by the Avocado Administrative Committee (Committee). For South Florida-grown avocados, this proposed rule would align the regulations with current industry practice. It would remove language permitting the commingling of avocados with dissimilar characteristics in containers for shipment within the production area. All avocado shipments within the production area would need to meet the provisions of a U.S. No. 2 grade, as provided in the United States Standards for Grades of Florida Avocados. For imported avocados, this rule would also make a technical correction to the avocado import regulation to clarify that the minimum grade requirement for imported avocados remains unchanged at a U.S. No. 2.
Olives Grown in California; Decreased Assessment Rate
Document Number: 2014-13553
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-06-11
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim rule that decreased the assessment rate established for the California Olive Committee (Committee) for the 2014 and subsequent fiscal years from $21.16 to $15.21 per ton of assessable olives handled. The Committee locally administers the marketing order, which regulates the handling of olives grown in California. Assessments upon olive handlers are used by the Committee to fund reasonable and necessary expenses of the program. The fiscal year began January 1 and ends December 31. The assessment rate will remain in effect indefinitely unless modified, suspended, or terminated.
National Sheep Industry Improvement Center
Document Number: 2014-12589
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-06-03
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
As provided under the Agriculture Act of 2014 (2014 Farm Bill), the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is amending the National Sheep Industry Improvement Center (NSIIC) regulations. This interim rule redesignates the statutory authority from section 375 of the Consolidated Farm and Rural Development Act to the Agricultural Marketing Act of 1946, amends the definition of the Act in the regulations consistent with the redesignated statutory authority, and amends the regulations by increasing the administrative cap for the use of the fund from 3 percent to 10 percent.
Kiwifruit Grown in California; Order Amending Marketing Order No. 920
Document Number: 2014-12327
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-28
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This final rule amends Marketing Order No. 920 (order), which regulates the handling of kiwifruit grown in California. The amendments were proposed by the Kiwifruit Administrative Committee (Committee or KAC), which is responsible for the local administration of the order. The five amendments will provide authority to recommend and conduct production and postharvest research, to recommend and conduct market research and development projects, to receive and expend voluntary contributions, to specify that recommendations for production research and market development be approved by eight members of the Committee, and to update provisions regarding alternate members' service on the Committee. These amendments are intended to improve administration of and compliance with the order, as well as reflect current industry practices.
Peanut Standards Board
Document Number: 2014-12320
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-05-28
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Farm Security and Rural Investment Act of 2002 (2002 Farm Bill) requires the Secretary of Agriculture to establish a Peanut Standards Board (Board) for the purpose of advising the Secretary on quality and handling standards for domestically produced and imported peanuts. The initial Board was appointed by the Secretary and announced on December 5, 2002. USDA seeks nominations for individuals to be considered for selection as Board members for a term of office ending June 30, 2017. Selected nominees would replace three producers and three industry representatives who currently serve on the Board and who have terms of office that end on June 30, 2014. The Board consists of 18 members representing producers and the industry. In an effort to obtain diversity among candidates, USDA encourages the nomination of men and women of all racial and ethnic groups and persons with a disability.
Oranges, Grapefruit, Tangerines, and Tangelos Grown in Florida; Relaxing Grade Requirements on Valencia and Other Late Type Oranges
Document Number: 2014-12287
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-28
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This rule changes the minimum grade requirements currently prescribed under the marketing order for oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and tangelos grown in Florida (order). The order is administered locally by the Citrus Administrative Committee (Committee). This rule reduces the minimum grade requirement for Valencia and other late type oranges shipped to interstate markets from a U.S. No. 1 to a U.S. No. 1 Golden from May 15 through June 14 each season and to a U.S. No. 2 external/U.S. No. 1 internal from June 15 through August 31 each season. This rule will provide additional Valencia and other late type oranges for late season markets, helping to maximize fresh shipments.
User Fees for 2014 Crop Cotton Classification Services to Growers
Document Number: 2014-10962
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-14
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) will maintain user fees for 2014 crop cotton classification services at $2.20 per bale the same level as in 2013. Revenues resulting from this cotton classing fee and existing reserves are sufficient to cover the costs of providing classification services for the 2014 crop, including costs for administration and supervision.
Softwood Lumber Research, Promotion, Consumer Education and Industry Information Order; Late Payment and Interest Charges on Past Due Assessments
Document Number: 2014-10995
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-05-13
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposal invites comments on prescribing late payment and interest charges on past due assessments under the Softwood Lumber Research, Promotion, Consumer Education and Industry Information Order (Order). The Order is administered by the Softwood Lumber Board (Board) with oversight by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Under the Order, assessments are collected from U.S. manufacturers (domestic) and importers and used for projects to promote softwood lumber within the United States. Softwood lumber is used in products like flooring, siding and framing. This proposal would implement authority contained in the Order that allows the Board to collect late payment and interest charges on past due assessments. This action would contribute to effective administration of the program.
Grapes Grown in a Designated Area of Southeastern California; Increased Assessment Rate
Document Number: 2014-10988
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-13
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This rule increases the assessment rate established for the California Desert Grape Administrative Committee (Committee) for the 2014 and subsequent fiscal periods from $0.0165 to $0.0200 per 18-pound lug of grapes handled. The Committee locally administers the marketing order, which regulates the handling of grapes grown in a designated area of southeastern California. Assessments upon grape handlers are used by the Committee to fund reasonable and necessary expenses of the program. The fiscal period began on January 1 and ends on December 31. The assessment rate will remain in effect indefinitely unless modified, suspended, or terminated.
Milk in the Appalachian, Florida, and Southeast Marketing Areas; Order Amending the Orders
Document Number: C1-2014-10037
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-09
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
Milk in the Appalachian and Southeast Marketing Areas; Termination of Proceeding
Document Number: C1-2014-10033
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-05-09
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
Milk in the Appalachian and Southeast Marketing Areas; Order Amending the Orders
Document Number: C1-2014-10031
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-09
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
Marketing Order Regulating the Handling of Spearmint Oil Produced in the Far West; Salable Quantities and Allotment Percentages for the 2014-2015 Marketing Year
Document Number: 2014-10371
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-08
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This final rule establishes the quantity of Far West Scotch and Native spearmint oil that handlers may purchase from, or handle on behalf of, producers during the 2014-2015 marketing year, which begins on June 1, 2014. The Far West includes Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and designated parts of Nevada and Utah. This rule establishes salable quantities and allotment percentages for Class 1 (Scotch) spearmint oil of 1,149,030 pounds and 55 percent, respectively, and for Class 3 (Native) spearmint oil of 1,090,821 pounds and 46 percent, respectively. The Spearmint Oil Administrative Committee (Committee), the entity responsible for local administration of the marketing order for spearmint oil produced in the Far West, recommended these quantities.
United States Standards for Grades of Maple Sirup
Document Number: 2014-10372
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-05-07
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) of the Department of Agriculture (USDA) is soliciting public comments on a proposed revision to the United States Standards for Grades of Maple Sirup (Syrup). AMS received a petition from the International Maple Syrup Institute (IMSI) requesting a revision of the U.S. grade standards. IMSI stated it is interested in developing harmonized grade standards for maple syrup producers in the United States and Canada, and asked AMS to replace the current grade classification requirements with new color and flavor descriptors, and revise Grade A requirements to be free from damage. AMS is also proposing to change the spelling from ``sirup'' to the more commonly used term ``syrup.'' The proposed grade standards would revise the existing federal grade standards for maple sirup (syrup). The purpose of these proposed revisions would be to foster or assist in the development of new or expanded markets, and improve the marketing of maple syrup in the U.S. and internationally.
Irish Potatoes Grown in Washington; Modification of the Handling Regulations for Yellow Fleshed and White Types of Potatoes
Document Number: 2014-10369
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-07
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This rule extends the temporary exemption of yellow fleshed and white skin (white types) potatoes from minimum quality, maturity, pack, marking, and inspection requirements under the Washington potato marketing order through the 2014-2015 and subsequent fiscal periods. Without this action, the temporary exemption currently in effect would end on June 30, 2014. The marketing order regulates the handling of Irish potatoes grown in Washington and is administered locally by the State of Washington Potato Committee (Committee). This rule is expected to reduce overall industry expenses and increase net returns to producers and handlers while continuing to give the industry the opportunity to explore alternative marketing strategies.
Marketing Order Regulating the Handling of Spearmint Oil Produced in the Far West; Revision of Administrative Rules and Regulations Governing Issuance of Additional Allotment Base
Document Number: 2014-10132
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-05-06
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposed rule invites comments on revisions to the procedure currently prescribed for issuing additional allotment base for Class 1 (Scotch) and Class 3 (Native) spearmint oil to new and existing producers under the Far West spearmint oil marketing order (order). The order regulates the handling of spearmint oil produced in the Far West and is administered locally by the Spearmint Oil Administrative Committee (Committee). This action would: Reduce the number of new producers that are issued additional allotment bases each year from three to two, for each class of oil; temporarily change the method by which additional allotment base is allocated to existing producers to take into account small production operations; and amend the requirements for eligibility, retention, and transfer of additional allotment base issued to new and existing producers. Revising the procedure for issuing additional allotment base would help ensure that new and existing spearmint oil producers have sufficient allotment base to be economically viable in the future.
Milk in the Appalachian, Florida, and Southeast Marketing Areas; Order Amending the Orders
Document Number: 2014-10037
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-02
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This final rule amends the Class I pricing provisions and the maximum administrative assessment for the Appalachian, Florida and Southeast marketing orders. This final rule also amends certain features of the diversion limit, touch-base and transportation credit provisions of the Appalachian and Southeast milk marketing orders. More than the required number of producers approved the issuance of the orders as amended.
Irish Potatoes Grown in Washington; Temporary Change to the Handling Regulations and Reporting Requirements for Yellow Fleshed and White Types of Potatoes
Document Number: 2014-10036
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-02
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim rule that temporarily exempted yellow fleshed and white types of potatoes from minimum quality, maturity, pack, marking, and inspection requirements under the Washington potato marketing order through June 30, 2014. The interim rule also modified an existing report to require handlers of yellow fleshed and white types of potatoes to report information necessary to administer the order during the period that such potatoes are exempt from handling requirements. This change is expected to reduce overall industry expenses and increase net returns to producers and handlers while giving the industry the opportunity to explore alternative marketing strategies.
Milk in the Appalachian and Southeast Marketing Areas; Termination of Proceeding
Document Number: 2014-10033
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-05-02
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This action terminates a proceeding for two remaining proposals presented at a hearing held in Louisville, Kentucky, January 10-12, 2006. The two proposals (Proposal 2 and Proposal 5) would: Establish intra-market transportation credit provisions for the Appalachian and Southeast Federal milk marketing areas, and reduce payments to producers for milk diverted to locations outside of the geographic boundaries of the Appalachian and Southeast milk marketing areas. The Agricultural Marketing Service believes that the amendments adopted as part of a subsequent proceeding addressed the disorderly marketing conditions that Proposals 2 and 5 were designed to remedy, and therefore action on the proceedings for these two proposals is terminated.
Milk in the Appalachian and Southeast Marketing Areas; Order Amending the Orders
Document Number: 2014-10031
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-02
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This final rule amends the transportation credit balancing fund provisions and pooling provisions of the Appalachian and Southeast orders. More than the required number of producers for the Appalachian and Southeast marketing areas approved the issuance of the orders as amended.
National Organic Program: Notification of Final Guidance on Products in the “Made With Organic * * *” Labeling Category
Document Number: 2014-09963
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-05-01
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is announcing the availability of a final guidance document intended for use by accredited certifying agents and certified organic operations. The final guidance document is entitled: Products in the ``Made with Organic ***'' Labeling Category (NOP 5032). This guidance is intended to inform the public of the National Organic Program's (NOP) current thinking on this topic.
National Organic Program: Notice of Draft Guidance on Substances Used in Post-Harvest Handling of Organic Products
Document Number: 2014-09390
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-04-25
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is announcing the availability of a draft guidance document intended for use by accredited certifying agents and certified operations and exempt operations that produce or handle certified organic products. The guidance document is entitled: Substances Used in Post-Harvest Handling of Organic Products (NOP 5023). This guidance document is intended to inform the public of the National Organic Program's (NOP) current thinking on this topic. The NOP is seeking comments on this draft guidance document.
Irish Potatoes Grown in Certain Designated Counties in Idaho, and Malheur County, Oregon; Decreased Assessment Rate
Document Number: 2014-09093
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-04-22
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This rule decreases the assessment rate established for the Idaho-Eastern Oregon Potato Committee (Committee) for the 2014-2015 and subsequent fiscal periods from $0.0045 to $0.0025 per hundredweight of potatoes handled. The Committee locally administers the marketing order which regulates the handling of potatoes grown in certain designated counties in Idaho, and Malheur County, Oregon. Assessments upon potato handlers are used by the Committee to fund reasonable and necessary expenses of the program. The fiscal period begins August 1 and ends July 31. The assessment rate will remain in effect indefinitely unless modified, suspended, or terminated.
Spearmint Oil Produced in the Far West; Decreased Assessment Rate
Document Number: 2014-09091
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-04-22
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This rule decreases the assessment rate established for the Spearmint Oil Administrative Committee (Committee), for the 2014-15 and subsequent marketing years from $0.10 to $0.09 per pound of spearmint oil handled. The Committee locally administers the marketing order which regulates the handling of spearmint oil produced in the Far West. Assessments upon spearmint oil handlers are used by the Committee to fund reasonable and necessary expenses of the program. The marketing year begins June 1 and ends May 31. The assessment rate will remain in effect indefinitely unless modified, suspended, or terminated. Effective April 23, 2014. Comments received by June 23, 2014, will be considered prior to issuance of a final rule.
Livestock, Poultry and Seed Program; Request for Revision of a Currently Approved Information Collection and To Merge the Collections of OMB 0581-0124 and 0581-0128
Document Number: 2014-08924
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-04-18
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Sec. 3501-20), this notice announces the Agricultural Marketing Service's (AMS) intention to request approval from the Office of Management and Budget, for revision of two previously approved collections by merging them into a single information collection. AMS recently merged the Livestock, Poultry and Seed Program's Poultry Grading Branch and Grading and Verification Division. Due to this organizational merger, AMS intends to combine the following collections, 0581-0128 ``Regulations Governing the Voluntary Grading of Shell Eggs7 CFR part 56'' and 0581-0124 ``7 CFR part 54 Meats, Prepared Meats, and Meat Products (Grading, Certification, and Standards) and 7 CFR part 62 Quality Systems Verification Program (QSVP).'' These collections will be combined into a single collection retitled 0581-0128 ``Regulations for Voluntary Grading, Certification, and Standards7 CFR parts 54, 56, 62, and 70.''
Kiwifruit Grown in California; Continuance Referendum
Document Number: 2014-07980
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-04-09
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This document directs that a referendum be conducted among eligible California kiwifruit growers to determine whether they favor continuance of the marketing order regulating the handling of kiwifruit grown in California.
Christmas Tree Promotion, Research, and Information Order; Request for Reinstatement of a Previously Approved Information Collection for Which Approval has Expired
Document Number: 2014-07706
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-04-07
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), this document announces the Agricultural Marketing Service's (AMS) intention to request reinstatement of a previously approved information collection from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB), for which approval has expired for the Christmas Tree Promotion, Research, and Information Program (Order). In addition, to the Order, we are including the burden and ballot form from a previously approved information collection that expired, titled Referendum for Christmas Tree Promotion, Research and Information Program.
Plant Variety Protection Board; Open Teleconference Meeting
Document Number: 2014-07703
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-04-07
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This notice is intended to notify the public of their opportunity to attend an open meeting of the Plant Variety Protection Board.
Domestic Dates Produced or Packed in Riverside County, California; Revision of Assessment Requirements
Document Number: 2014-07701
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-04-07
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposed rule invites comments on proposed rules and regulations necessary for the California Date Administrative Committee (committee) to exercise its authority to impose interest and late payment charges on overdue handler assessments. The California date marketing order (order) regulates the handling of dates produced or packed in Riverside County, California, and is administered locally by the committee. Assessments upon date handlers are used to fund the reasonable and necessary expenses of the committee. These changes are expected to assist in the financial administration of the order by encouraging handlers to pay their assessments in a timely manner.
Christmas Tree Promotion, Research, and Information Order; Lifting of the Stay of Regulation
Document Number: 2014-07684
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-04-07
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
On November 8, 2011, a final rule was published in the Federal Register (76 FR 69094) establishing an industry-funded promotion, research, and information program for fresh cut Christmas trees. The effective date of the final rule was November 9, 2011. On November 17, 2011, the Christmas Tree Promotion Research and Information Order (Order) date was stayed to provide all interested persons, including the Christmas tree industry and the general public, an opportunity to become more familiar with the program. The stay is being lifted in accordance with the provisions of the Agricultural Act of 2014.
Regulations Issued Under the Export Apple Act; Exempting Bulk Shipments to Canada From Minimum Requirements and Inspection
Document Number: 2014-07543
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-04-04
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This interim rule revises the regulations issued under the Export Apple Act to exempt bulk shipments of apples to Canada from the minimum requirements and inspection provisions of the Export Apple Act, and to add a definition for bulk containers. The rule is necessary because section 10009 of the Agricultural Act of 2014 amended the Export Apple Act to exempt apples shipped to Canada in bulk containers weighing more than 100 pounds from inspection requirements.
User Fees for 2014 Crop Cotton Classification Services to Growers
Document Number: 2014-07015
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-04-01
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is proposing to maintain user fees for cotton producers for 2014 crop cotton classification services under the Cotton Statistics and Estimates Act at the same level as in 2013. These fees are also authorized under the Cotton Standards Act of 1923. The 2013 crop user fee was $2.20 per bale, and AMS proposes to continue the fee for the 2014 cotton crop at that same level. This proposed fee and the existing reserve are sufficient to cover the costs of providing classification services for the 2014 crop, including costs for administration and supervision.
Watermelon Research and Promotion Plan; Importer Membership Requirements
Document Number: 2014-07024
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-03-31
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This rule amends the Watermelon Research and Promotion Plan's (Plan) importer membership requirements to serve on the National Watermelon Promotion Board (Board). The Board recommended eliminating the requirement that an importer import more than 50 percent of the total volume handled and imported in order to qualify as an importer member. This change allows for additional parties to qualify as an importer member. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA or Department) conducted a referendum among eligible producers, handlers, and importers of watermelons from January 13 through 27, 2014. Seventy- four percent of those voting in the referendum favored amendment of the Plan. Additional revisions are made to remove unnecessary language in the Plan and regulations. Also, a section of the regulations is clarified and revised accordingly.
Grapes Grown in a Designated Area of Southeastern California; Increased Assessment Rate
Document Number: 2014-07012
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-03-31
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposed rule would increase the assessment rate established for the California Desert Grape Administrative Committee (Committee) for the 2014 and subsequent fiscal periods from $0.0165 to $0.0200 per 18-pound lug of grapes handled. The Committee locally administers the marketing order, which regulates the handling of grapes grown in a designated area of southeastern California. Assessments upon grape handlers are used by the Committee to fund reasonable and necessary expenses of the program. The fiscal period began on January 1 and ends December 31. The assessment rate would remain in effect indefinitely unless modified, suspended, or terminated.
Specified Commodities Imported into the United States, Exempt from Import Regulations; Request for Extension of a Currently Approved Information Collection
Document Number: 2014-07011
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-03-31
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501), this document announces the Agricultural Marketing Service's (AMS) intention to request an extension and revision to currently approved forms utilized by importers of commodities that are exempt from section 8e import regulations.
Beef Promotion and Research; Reapportionment
Document Number: 2014-06174
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-03-25
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposed rule would adjust representation on the Cattlemen's Beef Promotion and Research Board (Board), established under the Beef Promotion and Research Act of 1985 (Act), to reflect changes in cattle inventories as well as cattle and beef imports that have occurred since the most recent Board reapportionment rule became effective in July 2011. These adjustments are required by the Beef Promotion and Research Order (Order) and would result in a decrease in Board membership from 103 to 99, effective with the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) appointments for terms beginning early in the year 2015. The proposed rule also would make technical amendments to update and correct information in the Order and regulations.
Extension of Dairy Forward Pricing Program
Document Number: 2014-06189
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-03-21
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This final rule extends the Dairy Forward Pricing Program in accordance with the Agricultural Act of 2014 (2014 Farm Bill). The Dairy Forward Pricing Program was first authorized in section 1502 of the Food, Conservation and Energy Act of 2008. The program allows handlers regulated under the Federal milk marketing order program to pay producers and cooperative associations in accordance with the terms of a forward contract and not have to pay the minimum Federal order uniform price for milk. Establishing new contracts under the Dairy Forward Pricing Program has been prohibited since the expiration of the program on September 30, 2013. The 2014 Farm Bill (H.R. 2642) was signed into law on February 7, 2014, and extends the program to allow new contracts to be entered into until September 30, 2018. Any forward contract entered into up and until the September 30, 2018, deadline is subject to a September 30, 2021, expiration date to meet the terms of the contract.
Peanut Promotion, Research, and Information Order; Amendment to Primary Peanut-Producing States and Adjustment of Membership
Document Number: 2014-06181
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-03-21
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This rule adds the State of Arkansas as a primary peanut- producing State under the Peanut Promotion, Research, and Information Order (Order). The Order is administered by the National Peanut Board (Board) with oversight by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). This rule also adds a seat on the Board for the State of Arkansas. Under the Order, primary peanut-producing States must maintain a 3-year average production of at least 10,000 tons of peanuts. Arkansas's peanut production meets this requirement. Primary peanut-producing States also have a seat on the Board. This action was recommended by the Board and ensures that the Board's representation reflects changes in the geographical distribution of the production of peanuts.
Farmers' Market and Local Food Promotion Program: Notice of Emergency Approval of New Information Collection for Local Food Promotion Program
Document Number: 2014-06099
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-03-20
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), this notice announces the Agricultural Marketing Service's (AMS) intention to request emergency approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for a new collection under the Farmers' Market and Local Food Promotion Program. The Farmers' Market and Local Food Promotion Program, includes two AMS competitive grant programs: Farmers' Market Promotion Program (FMPP) and Local Food Promotion Program (LFPP). This new collection establishes forms and documentation under the Local Food Promotion Program.
Notice of Request for Extension and Revision of a Currently Approved Collection
Document Number: 2014-06085
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-03-20
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), this notice announces that the Agricultural Marketing Service's (AMS) intention to request approval, from the Office of Management and Budget, for an extension of and revision to the currently approved information collection ``Laboratory Approval Programs''.
Apricots Grown in Designated Counties in Washington; Suspension of Handling Regulations
Document Number: 2014-06084
Type: Rule
Date: 2014-03-20
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim rule that suspended the handling regulations and inspection requirements prescribed under the marketing order for apricots grown in designated Counties in Washington (order). The interim rule suspended the minimum grade, size, quality, maturity, and inspection requirements of the order for the remainder of the 2013- 2014 fiscal period and subsequent fiscal periods. This rule is expected to reduce overall industry expenses and increase net returns to growers and handlers.
Oranges, Grapefruit, Tangerines, and Tangelos Grown in Florida; Continuance Referendum
Document Number: 2014-06083
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-03-20
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This document directs that a referendum be conducted among eligible producers of oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and tangelos grown in Florida to determine whether they favor continuance of the marketing order regulating the handling of oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and tangelos produced in the production area.
Pistachios Grown in California, Arizona, and New Mexico; Modification of Aflatoxin Regulations
Document Number: 2014-05834
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-03-18
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposed rule invites comments on revisions to the aflatoxin sampling regulations currently prescribed under the California, Arizona, and New Mexico pistachio marketing order (order). The order regulates the handling of pistachios grown in California, Arizona, and New Mexico, and is administered locally by the Administrative Committee for Pistachios (Committee). This action would allow the use of mechanical samplers (auto-samplers) for in-line sampling as a method to obtain samples for aflatoxin analysis. The use of auto-samplers is expected to reduce handler costs by providing a more efficient and cost-effective process.
National Organic Program Notice of Request for New Information Collection
Document Number: 2014-05809
Type: Notice
Date: 2014-03-17
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
In accordance with the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. Chapter 35), this notice announces the Agricultural Marketing Service's (AMS) intention to request approval from the Office of Management and Budget for a new information collection: National Organic Program (NOP); Organic Certification Cost-Share Programs.
Marketing Order Regulating the Handling of Spearmint Oil Produced in the Far West; Salable Quantities and Allotment Percentages for the 2014-2015 Marketing Year
Document Number: 2014-05587
Type: Proposed Rule
Date: 2014-03-14
Agency: Agricultural Marketing Service, Department of Agriculture
This proposed rule invites comments on proposed limits to the quantity of Far West Scotch and Native spearmint oil that handlers may purchase from, or handle on behalf of, producers during the 2014-2015 marketing year, which begins on June 1, 2014. The Far West includes Washington, Idaho, Oregon, and designated parts of Nevada and Utah. The salable quantity and allotment percentage for Class 1 (Scotch) spearmint oil would be set at 1,149,030 pounds and 55 percent, respectively. For Class 3 (Native) spearmint oil, the salable quantity and allotment percentage would be set at 1,090,821 pounds and 46 percent, respectively. The Spearmint Oil Administrative Committee (Committee), the agency responsible for local administration of the marketing order for spearmint oil produced in the Far West, recommended these quantities.
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