99-21665. Avocados Grown in South Florida and Imported Avocados; Revision of the Maturity Requirements for Fresh Avocados  

  • [Federal Register Volume 64, Number 161 (Friday, August 20, 1999)]
    [Proposed Rules]
    [Pages 45461-45466]
    From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
    [FR Doc No: 99-21665]
    
    
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    Proposed Rules
                                                    Federal Register
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    This section of the FEDERAL REGISTER contains notices to the public of 
    the proposed issuance of rules and regulations. The purpose of these 
    notices is to give interested persons an opportunity to participate in 
    the rule making prior to the adoption of the final rules.
    
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    Federal Register / Vol. 64, No. 161 / Friday, August 20, 1999 / 
    Proposed Rules
    
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    DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE
    
    Agricultural Marketing Service
    
    7 CFR Parts 915 and 944
    
    [Docket No. FV99-915-2 PR]
    
    
    Avocados Grown in South Florida and Imported Avocados; Revision 
    of the Maturity Requirements for Fresh Avocados
    
    AGENCY: Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA.
    
    ACTION: Proposed rule.
    
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    SUMMARY: This rule invites comments on revisions to the maturity 
    requirements currently prescribed under the marketing order for 
    avocados grown in south Florida, and those specified in the avocado 
    import maturity regulation. The marketing order regulates the handling 
    of avocados grown in south Florida, and is administered locally by the 
    Avocado Administrative Committee (Committee). This rule would change 
    maturity requirements by adding additional shipping dates, weights and/
    or diameters to the shipping schedule for several avocado varieties, 
    and would add three new varieties of avocados to the shipping schedule. 
    This rule would facilitate the shipment of avocados as they mature, and 
    would ensure that only mature fruit is shipped to the fresh market. 
    This would help improve grower returns and promote orderly marketing. 
    Application of the maturity requirements to imported avocados is 
    required under section 8e of the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act 
    of 1937.
    
    DATES: Comments must be received by September 20, 1999.
    
    ADDRESSES: Interested persons are invited to submit written comments 
    concerning this proposal. Comments must be sent to the Docket Clerk, 
    Fruit and Vegetable Programs, AMS, USDA, room 2525-S, P.O. Box 96456, 
    Washington, DC 20090-6456; Fax: (202) 720-5698; or E-mail: 
    moab.docketclerk@usda.gov. All comments should reference the docket 
    number and the date and page number of this issue of the Federal 
    Register and will be made available for public inspection in the Office 
    of the Docket Clerk during regular business hours.
    
    FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Doris Jamieson, Southeast Marketing 
    Field Office, Marketing Order Administration Branch, F&V, AMS, USDA, 
    P.O. Box 2276, Winter Haven, Florida 33883; telephone: (941) 299-4770, 
    Fax: (941) 299-5169; or George Kelhart, Technical Advisor, Marketing 
    Order Administration Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Programs, AMS, USDA, 
    room 2525-S, P.O. Box 96456, Washington, DC 20090-6456; telephone: 
    (202) 720-2491, Fax: (202) 720-5698. Small businesses may request 
    information on complying with this regulation, or obtain a guide on 
    complying with fruit, vegetable, and specialty crop marketing 
    agreements and orders by contacting Jay Guerber, Marketing Order 
    Administration Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Programs, AMS, USDA, P.O. 
    Box 96456, room 2525-S, Washington, DC 20090-6456; telephone (202) 720-
    2491, Fax: (202) 720-5698, or E-mail: Jay.Guerber@usda.gov. You may 
    view the marketing agreement and order small business compliance guide 
    at the following web site: http://www.ams.usda.gov/fv/moab.html.
    
    SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This proposed rule is issued under Marketing 
    Agreement No. 121 and Marketing Order No. 915, both as amended (7 CFR 
    part 915), regulating the handling of avocados grown in South Florida, 
    hereinafter referred to as the ``order.'' The marketing agreement and 
    order are effective under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 
    1937, as amended (7 U.S.C. 601-674), hereinafter referred to as the 
    ``Act.''
        This proposed rule is also issued under section 8e of the Act, 
    which provides that whenever certain specified commodities, including 
    avocados, are regulated under a Federal marketing order, imports of 
    these commodities into the United States are prohibited unless they 
    meet the same or comparable grade, size, quality, or maturity 
    requirements as those in effect for the domestically produced 
    commodities.
        The Department of Agriculture (Department) is issuing this rule in 
    conformance with Executive Order 12866.
        This proposed rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12988, 
    Civil Justice Reform. This rule is not intended to have retroactive 
    effect. This rule will not preempt any State or local laws, 
    regulations, or policies, unless they present an irreconcilable 
    conflict with this rule.
        The Act provides that administrative proceedings must be exhausted 
    before parties may file suit in court. Under section 608c(15)(A) of the 
    Act, any handler subject to an order may file with the Secretary a 
    petition stating that the order, any provision of the order, or any 
    obligation imposed in connection with the order is not in accordance 
    with law and request a modification of the order or to be exempted 
    therefrom. A handler is afforded the opportunity for a hearing on the 
    petition. After the hearing the Secretary would rule on the petition. 
    The Act provides that the district court of the United States in any 
    district in which the handler is an inhabitant, or has his or her 
    principal place of business, has jurisdiction to review the Secretary's 
    ruling on the petition, provided an action is filed not later than 20 
    days after the date of the entry of the ruling.
        There are no administrative procedures which must be exhausted 
    prior to any judicial challenge to the provisions of import regulations 
    issued under section 8e of the Act.
        Under the terms of the marketing order, fresh market shipments of 
    Florida avocados are required to be inspected and are subject to grade, 
    size, maturity, and pack and container requirements. The maturity 
    requirements for Florida avocados are intended to prevent the shipment 
    of immature avocados. This helps to improve buyer confidence in the 
    marketplace, and foster increased consumption. Current maturity 
    requirements for the varieties of avocados grown in Florida are 
    expressed in terms of minimum weights and diameters for specific dates 
    during the shipping period (hereinafter referred to as the avocado 
    maturity shipping schedule, maturity schedule, or shipping schedule), 
    and color specifications for those varieties of avocados that turn red 
    or purple when mature. The maturity requirements for the various 
    varieties of avocados are different, because each variety has
    
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    different growing and maturation characteristics. The maturity 
    requirements for each variety are based on test results. A minimum 
    grade requirement of U.S. No. 2 is also in effect for Florida avocados.
        This rule invites comments on changes to the avocado maturity 
    shipping schedule for various varieties currently prescribed in 
    paragraph (a)(2) of Sec. 915.332 under the order. The shipping schedule 
    for each variety is divided into A, B, C, and D dates which reflect 
    different ripening times associated with the individual variety. The 
    dates for a particular variety are established to regulate the shipment 
    of smaller-sized avocados, which tend to take longer to mature. 
    Consequently, A dates are associated with larger diameter, heavier 
    fruit, and are established for early season shipments. D dates are 
    established for the end of a variety's marketing season and allow the 
    remaining smaller-sized mature fruit to be shipped. For a majority of 
    the avocado varieties, the maturity schedule includes B and C dates 
    that fall somewhere between the A and D dates for the particular 
    variety. This proposal would add B or C shipping dates, with specific 
    minimum weight, and/or minimum diameter measurements to the shipping 
    schedule for the Arue, Beta, Donnie, Leona, Loretta, and Tower II 
    varieties. It would also add three new varieties of avocados, the Semil 
    34, Semil 43, and the Melendez, to the maturity schedule, including 
    specific shipping requirements for each. This rule would facilitate the 
    shipment of these varieties of avocados as they mature, and would 
    ensure that only mature fruit is shipped to the fresh market. This is 
    expected to help improve grower returns and promote orderly marketing. 
    The Committee met and unanimously recommended these changes late last 
    year.
        Section 915.51 of the order provides the authority to issue 
    regulations establishing specific maturity requirements for avocados. 
    The maturity requirements for avocados grown in Florida, based on 
    minimum weights, diameters, and skin color in Sec. 915.332 (7 CFR 
    915.332) of the order, are in effect on a continuous basis. The 
    maturity requirements specify minimum weights and diameters for 
    specific shipping periods for approximately 60 varieties of avocados, 
    and color specifications for those varieties which turn red or purple 
    when mature. The maturity requirements and dates for the various 
    varieties of avocados are different because each variety has different 
    characteristics and maturity times.
        This rule makes several changes to the maturity provisions under 
    the order. The first change would add B or C shipping dates, with 
    specific minimum weight, and/or minimum diameter measurements to the 
    shipping schedule for the Arue, Beta, Donnie, Leona, Loretta, and Tower 
    II varieties. Section 915.332 of the order rules and regulations 
    outline the maturity requirements for avocados using a maturity 
    schedule. Over the years, the maturity schedule has been determined to 
    be the best indicator of maturity for the different varieties of 
    avocados grown in Florida, and growers and handlers rely on the 
    schedule in making harvesting, packing, and shipping decisions. The 
    maturity requirements are designed to make sure that all shipments of 
    Florida avocados are mature, so as to provide consumer satisfaction 
    essential for the successful marketing of the crop, and to provide the 
    trade and consumers with an adequate supply of mature avocados in the 
    interest of producers and consumers.
        The maturity requirements for specified periods are based on the 
    growing, harvesting, and maturity periods for the various varieties of 
    Florida avocados. Such requirements prescribe minimum weights and/or 
    diameters for specified periods as the maturity requirements for 
    different varieties of avocados. These requirements are used as 
    indicators during harvest to determine which avocados are sufficiently 
    mature to complete the ripening process.
        The maturity requirements pertain to certain dates. These dates are 
    established based on years of testing. Each covered variety has its own 
    set of dates on the maturity schedule. The maturity requirements and 
    dates for the various varieties of avocados are different because 
    individual varieties have different characteristics and growing 
    seasons. As previously mentioned, the schedule is broken up into A, B, 
    C, and D dates, though not all varieties have dates and requirements 
    for each.
        The different dates are used to reflect the ripening time 
    associated with the individual varieties. Larger fruit within a variety 
    matures earlier, while smaller-sized fruit takes longer to mature. 
    Consequently, A dates are associated with larger sizes and weights, and 
    are established for shipments early in a variety's season. D dates are 
    established for the end of a variety's season when all fruit should be 
    mature, and releases all remaining sizes and weights.
        For a majority of varieties, the schedule also includes B and C 
    shipping dates that fall somewhere in between the A and D dates for the 
    particular variety. These dates provide for a gradual shift in the 
    maturity standards from the beginning of the season to its end, 
    allowing for the shipment of smaller sizes and weights as a variety 
    matures. However, not all varieties have established dates and 
    requirements for B and C dates. Because of the nature and volume of the 
    varieties when they were added to the schedule, the Committee, in the 
    past, did not believe that establishing B and C dates for some 
    varieties was necessary.
        This rule would permit varieties of avocados of certain minimum 
    weights and diameters to be shipped by handlers earlier than currently 
    required. This rule would add a C date for Arue variety avocados so 
    those with a minimum weight of 12 ounces could be shipped by June 20, 
    or the nearest Monday to that date each year. Currently, Arue variety 
    avocados of this weight cannot be shipped until July 4. This rule would 
    add a C date for Beta variety avocados so those with a minimum weight 
    of 14 ounces or a minimum diameter of 3\3/16\ inches could be shipped 
    by August 29, or the nearest Monday to that date each year. Currently, 
    Betas of this weight or size cannot be shipped until September 5. This 
    rule would also add a C date for Donnie avocados so that those with a 
    minimum weight of 12 ounces could be shipped by June 20, or the nearest 
    Monday to that date each year. Currently, Donnies of this weight cannot 
    be shipped until July 4. This rule would also add a B date for Leona 
    avocados so that those with a minimum weight of 16 ounces could be 
    shipped by October 3, or the nearest Monday to that date each year. 
    Currently, Leonas of this weight cannot be shipped until October 10. 
    This rule would add a C date for Loretta avocados so that those with a 
    minimum weight of 22 ounces or a minimum diameter of 3\12/16\ inches 
    could be shipped by September 19, or the nearest Monday to that date 
    each year. Currently, Lorettas of this weight or size cannot be shipped 
    until September 26. This rule would also add a C date for Tower II 
    avocados so that those with a minimum weight of 10 ounces or a minimum 
    diameter of 3\2/16\ inches could be shipped by August 29, or the 
    nearest Monday to that date each year. Currently, Tower II variety 
    avocados of this weight or size cannot be shipped until September 5. 
    This action was recommended by the Committee because it believes that 
    for the varieties listed above, the absence of B or C dates left too 
    much of a gap between the A and D dates.
    
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        Because smaller sizes were maturing before the next available 
    shipping date, quantities of small mature fruit could be lost to fruit 
    drop during the time gap before it could be harvested and shipped. With 
    tree crops, incidents of fruit dropping from the limbs occurs due to 
    weather, disease, or other reasons depending on the particular crop. 
    Fruit drop can increase as the fruit begins to mature. It is usually 
    best to harvest the crop as close to maturity as possible to minimize 
    fruit drop. In the case of avocados, when fruit drops from the tree it 
    can experience bruising, insect damage, or reach a stage of ripeness 
    where it cannot successfully be packed without being bruised. This 
    results in an economic loss for growers and handlers. The Committee 
    agreed that this has become more of a problem during the past few years 
    as the production of avocados has increased following the devastation 
    caused by Hurricane Andrew in 1992.
        As an example of the problem, consider the Arue variety. This 
    variety currently has scheduled A, B, and D dates. However, the absence 
    of a C date leaves a five-week gap between the B and D dates. This 
    means that the minimum weight for the Arue variety remains at 14 ounces 
    for this five-week period until the D date is reached releasing all 
    weights. By filling the gap with a C date falling between the B and D 
    dates, and a minimum weight of 12 ounces based on the Committee's 
    maturity testing procedures explained below, smaller sizes of this 
    variety could be shipped as they mature. Similar situations exist for 
    the Beta, Donnie, Leona, Loretta, and Tower II varieties, and the 
    relaxed maturity requirements would permit handlers to ship the fruit 
    as it reaches satisfactory maturity, and avoid losses caused by fruit 
    drop.
        The above avocado varieties were tested by the Committee to better 
    identify the maturity of avocados grown in South Florida. The Committee 
    based its recommendations on the testing data.
        This rule would also add three new varieties of avocados to the 
    avocado maturity shipping schedule. A few years ago, budwood for the 
    Semil 34, Semil 43, and Melendez varieties was obtained and evenly 
    distributed among those growers interested in the new varieties. 
    Growers who planted these varieties have been pleased with the 
    production and quality of the fruit. The new varieties have also been 
    well received in the market place. These varieties currently make up 
    less than 1 percent of domestic shipments.
        Committee members believe that the production of the Semil 43, 
    Semil 34, and Melendez varieties will continue to increase. Therefore, 
    maturity dates and requirements are needed to ensure that only mature 
    fruit is shipped to the fresh market. Growers have indicated they would 
    be replacing other varieties with these varieties or planting more 
    acres of these new varieties. In the past, the Committee has used the 
    100 bushel mark in its considerations of whether to add or delete 
    varieties from the shipping schedule. In the case of these three 
    varieties, production has exceeded the 100 bushel mark and the 
    Committee projects that production will continue to increase because 
    they show so much promise.
        As with all varieties currently listed on the maturity schedule, 
    the fruit was tested using the Committee's established procedures for 
    testing maturity of avocados grown in south Florida to determine dates 
    when different sizes and/or weights become mature. This information is 
    then used to recommend the dates and requirements for addition to the 
    schedule. The Committee has tested the new varieties for the past few 
    seasons. Adding them as regulated varieties would place them under the 
    maturity requirements as are other covered avocado varieties. This 
    would prevent shipments of immature avocados to the fresh market, 
    especially during the early part of the harvest season for each of 
    these varieties. Providing fresh markets with mature fruit is an 
    important aspect of creating consumer satisfaction and is in the 
    interest of both producers and consumers.
        Florida avocado handlers may ship, exempt from the minimum grade 
    and maturity requirements effective under the order, up to 55 pounds of 
    avocados during any one day under a minimum quantity provision, and up 
    to 20 pounds of avocados as gift packs in individually addressed 
    containers. Also, avocados grown in Florida utilized in commercial 
    processing are not subject to the grade and maturity requirements under 
    the order.
        Section 8e of the Act provides that when certain domestically 
    produced commodities, including avocados, are regulated under a Federal 
    marketing order, imports of that commodity must meet the same or 
    comparable grade, size, quality, and maturity requirements. Since this 
    rule would revise the maturity requirements under the domestic handling 
    regulations, a corresponding change to the avocado import maturity 
    regulations must also be made.
        Maturity requirements for avocados imported into the United States 
    are currently in effect under Sec. 944.31 (7 CFR 944.31). The Hass, 
    Fuerte, Zutano, and Edranol varieties of avocados currently are exempt 
    from the maturity schedule, and would continue to be exempt under this 
    proposed rule. However, these varieties are not exempt from the grade 
    import regulation, which is not proposed to be changed.
        This rule would add B or C shipping dates, with specific minimum 
    weight, and/or minimum diameter measurements to the avocado maturity 
    shipping schedule for the Arue, Beta, Donnie, Leona, Loretta, and Tower 
    II varieties offered for importation into the United States. It would 
    also add three new varieties of avocados, the Semil 34, Semil 43, and 
    the Melendez, to the maturity schedule, including specific shipping 
    requirements for each. The domestic maturity requirements for specified 
    periods are based on the growing, maturation, and harvesting 
    characteristics of the various varieties of South Florida avocados.
        Import data for calendar years 1995 through April 1999 reveals that 
    the major exporters of avocados to the United States are Chile, Mexico, 
    Dominican Republic, and the Bahamas. Imports from these countries 
    totaled 18,577 metric tons in 1995, 25,405 in 1996, 26,562 in 1997, 
    60,611 metric tons in 1998, and 9,261 through April of 1999. Other 
    exporting countries include New Zealand, Belize, Israel, and Ecuador. 
    Imports from the latter group of countries are small and sporadic.
        Chile is the predominant exporting country. Imports from Chile are 
    growing and reached 44,757 metric tons in calendar year 1998. Chile 
    exports avocados into the United States predominately during the months 
    of August through December. However, exports have occurred during the 
    period from January through May, and in 1999, Chile exported some 
    avocados during the period January through April. The major varieties 
    imported from Chile are Hass, Fuerte, Zutano, and Edranol, all of which 
    are exempt from the avocado maturity shipping schedule, and would 
    continue to be exempt under this proposal for domestic and imported 
    avocados. These varieties, however, are subject to grade requirements.
        During calendar year 1998, Mexico was the second largest exporter 
    of avocados into the United States. In 1998, exports from Mexico 
    totaled 9,295 metric tons. Mexican shipments of fresh avocados to the 
    United States are limited to November through February. The only 
    variety of avocado imported from Mexico is the Hass, and the Hass 
    variety is exempt from the maturity regulation as mentioned earlier.
    
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        The third major importing country is the Dominican Republic. During 
    1998, a total of 6,029 metric tons were imported during all 12 months 
    of the year. Imports from the Bahamas during this period were small and 
    appear to be declining.
        Non-exempt varieties of avocados from the foreign countries in 
    close proximity to Florida (Mexico, the Dominican Republic, and 
    Bahamas) have similar growing, harvesting, and maturity periods, and 
    have met the minimum weight and diameter maturity requirements without 
    any apparent problems, and this is expected to continue. The import 
    maturity requirements based on skin color apply to avocados which turn 
    red or purple when mature.
        A survey of Fresh Products Branch inspection offices checking 
    imported avocados in 1998 revealed that most of the imported avocados 
    were of the Hass variety.
        This rule would facilitate shipments of avocados as they mature, 
    and would ensure that only mature fruit is shipped to the fresh market. 
    Thus, importers would benefit from the proposed changes in maturity 
    requirements, just like Florida growers and handlers.
        Pursuant to requirements set forth in the Regulatory Flexibility 
    Act (RFA), the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has considered the 
    economic impact of this action on small entities. Accordingly, AMS has 
    prepared this initial regulatory flexibility analysis.
        The purpose of the RFA is to fit regulatory actions to the scale of 
    business subject to such actions in order that small businesses will 
    not be unduly or disproportionately burdened. Marketing orders issued 
    pursuant to the Act, and rules issued thereunder, are unique in that 
    they are brought about through group action of essentially small 
    entities acting on their own behalf. Thus, both statutes have small 
    entity orientation and compatibility. Import regulations issued under 
    the Act are based on those established under Federal marketing orders.
        There are approximately 141 avocado producers in the production 
    area and approximately 49 handlers subject to regulation under the 
    marketing order. There are approximately 35 importers of avocados. 
    Small agricultural producers have been defined by the Small Business 
    Administration (SBA) as those having annual receipts less than 
    $500,000, and small agricultural service firms are defined as those 
    whose annual receipts are less than $5,000,000 (13 CFR 121.601).
        The average price for fresh avocados during the 1997-98 season was 
    $14.60 per 55 pound bushel box equivalent for all domestic shipments 
    and the total shipments were 937,568 bushels. Approximately 10 percent 
    of all handlers handled 90 percent of Florida avocado shipments. Many 
    avocado handlers ship other tropical fruit and vegetable products which 
    are not included in the Committees' data but would contribute further 
    to handler receipts.
        Using these prices, about 90 percent of avocado handlers could be 
    considered small businesses under the SBA definition and about 10 
    percent of the handlers could be considered large businesses. Although 
    specific data is unavailable, the Department believes that the majority 
    of avocado producers and importers may be classified as small entities.
        Section 915.51 of the order provides the authority to issue 
    regulations establishing specific maturity requirements for avocados. 
    Maturity requirements for avocados grown in Florida, based on minimum 
    weights, diameters, and skin color, are specified in Sec. 915.332 [7 
    CFR 915.332] of the order, and are in effect on a continuous basis. 
    These maturity requirements specify minimum weights and diameters for 
    specific shipping periods for approximately 60 varieties of avocados, 
    and color specifications for those varieties which turn red or purple 
    when mature. The maturity requirements and dates for the various 
    varieties of avocados are different because each variety has different 
    varietal characteristics and maturity times.
        This rule would make several changes to the order's maturity rules 
    and regulations. This rule would revise maturity requirements by adding 
    shipping dates, weights, and/or diameters to the shipping schedule for 
    several avocado varieties where no dates currently exist. Specifically, 
    this rule would add B or C shipping dates, with specific minimum 
    weight, and/or minimum diameter measurements to the shipping schedule 
    for the Arue, Beta, Donnie, Leona, Loretta, and Tower II varieties. It 
    would also add three new varieties of avocados, the Semil 34, Semil 43, 
    and the Melendez, to the shipping schedule, including specific shipping 
    requirements for each. This rule would facilitate the shipment of these 
    varieties of avocados as they mature, and would ensure that only mature 
    fruit is shipped to the fresh market. This would help improve grower 
    returns and promote orderly marketing.
        This rule will have a positive impact on affected entities. The 
    changes were recommended to provide additional flexibility in packing 
    avocados and to ensure that only mature fruit is shipped to the fresh 
    market.
        The impact of the change in these maturity regulations would not be 
    adverse to growers, handlers, and importers. The application of 
    maturity requirements to both Florida and imported avocados over the 
    past several years has helped to assure that only mature avocados were 
    shipped to fresh markets. The Committee continues to believe that the 
    maturity requirements for Florida avocados are needed to improve grower 
    returns. Preventing the shipment of immature avocados improves buyer 
    confidence in the marketplace, and fosters increased consumption. 
    Florida avocado producers and handlers have found such maturity 
    requirements beneficial in the successful marketing of their avocado 
    crop.
        The change that would add B or C dates to six varieties under the 
    order would not create any additional costs. This change would relax 
    requirements and facilitate the shipment of smaller-sized fruit as it 
    matures. Growers have noticed that smaller-sized fruit of these 
    varieties have been maturing prior to the currently specified shipping 
    dates. This has caused an increased incidence of fruit drop, resulting 
    in an economic loss to both growers and handlers. The additional 
    minimum weights and/or diameters for the six varieties would allow 
    growers to pick the fruit as it matures, and reduce fruit loss while 
    still supplying the market with mature fruit.
        The change that would add three additional varieties to the 
    schedule would also be beneficial in that regard. During the 1997-98 
    season, the three additional varieties comprised less than 1 percent of 
    total shipments from south Florida. While this rule may result in some 
    additional costs by requiring fruit to meet minimum weight and/or 
    diameter maturity standards, the benefits are expected to outweigh 
    costs. Inspection costs for Florida avocados are 14 cents for a 40 
    pound package, or equivalent thereof. Import inspection costs could 
    range from 2.2 cents per package for a dockside inspection up to $86 
    for an individual trailer load. Adding these varieties to the domestic 
    and import maturity schedules would help keep immature fruit from 
    reaching the market. Preventing the shipment of immature avocados 
    improves buyer confidence in the marketplace, and fosters increased 
    consumption, thus, improving grower returns.
        These changes are intended to provide some additional flexibility 
    for all handlers covered under the order,
    
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    while helping to ensure that only mature fruit reaches the market. The 
    opportunities and benefits of this rule are expected to be equally 
    available to all avocado handlers and growers regardless of their size 
    of operation. In addition, importers are expected to benefit similarly.
        The change in the avocado maturity shipping schedule is expected to 
    benefit the marketers of both Florida and imported avocados by assuring 
    that the avocados marketed are of satisfactory maturity. Experience has 
    shown that when immature avocados are found in market channels they 
    tend to weaken the market for the mature fruit. Fresh Products Branch 
    inspection officials indicated that the fruit offered for importation 
    has generally met maturity requirements. Thus, the Department believes 
    that the proposed changes would not limit the quantity of imported 
    avocados or place an undue burden on exporters, or importers of 
    avocados. The changes are expected to continue to foster customer 
    satisfaction and benefit all affected entities regardless of size.
        This rule would not impose any additional reporting or record 
    keeping requirements on either small or large avocado handlers. As with 
    all Federal marketing order programs, reports and forms are 
    periodically reviewed to reduce information requirements and 
    duplication by industry and public sectors. In addition, the Department 
    has not identified any relevant Federal rules that duplicate, overlap 
    or conflict with this rule.
        Further, the Committee's meeting was widely publicized throughout 
    the avocado industry and all interested persons were invited to attend 
    the meeting and participate in Committee deliberations. Like all 
    Committee meetings, the December 8, 1999, meeting was a public meeting 
    and all entities, both large and small, were able to express their 
    views on this issue. Finally, interested persons are invited to submit 
    information on the regulatory and informational impacts of this action 
    on small businesses.
        In accordance with section 8e of the Act, the United States Trade 
    Representative has concurred with the issuance of this proposed rule.
        A 30-day comment period is provided to allow interested persons to 
    respond to this proposal. Thirty days is deemed appropriate because 
    this rule needs to be in place as soon as possible. Handlers are 
    already shipping avocados from the 1999-2000 crop, and growers and 
    handlers rely heavily on the avocado maturity shipping schedule in 
    making harvesting and marketing decisions. Further, growers and 
    handlers of avocados do not need to make any operational changes to 
    comply with the maturity schedule changes, and the impact of the 
    changes on importers of foreign grown avocados is expected to be 
    minimal. All written comments timely received will be considered before 
    a final determination is made on this matter.
    
    List of Subjects
    
    7 CFR Part 915
    
        Avocados, Marketing agreements, Reporting and recordkeeping 
    requirements.
    
    7 CFR Part 944
    
        Avocados, Food grades and standards, Grapefruit, Grapes, Imports, 
    Kiwifruit, Limes, Olives, Oranges.
    
        For the reasons set forth above, 7 CFR parts 915 and 944 are 
    proposed to be amended as follows:
    
    PART 915--AVOCADOS GROWN IN SOUTH FLORIDA
    
        1. The authority citation for 7 CFR parts 915 and 944 continues to 
    read as follows:
    
        Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.
    
        2. In Sec. 915.332, Table I, the entry for ``Tower'' is removed and 
    an entry for ``Tower II'' is inserted in its place, the entries for 
    ``Beta, Donnie, Loretta, Arue,'' and ``Leona'' are revised, and a new 
    term ``Melendez'' is added immediately following the term ``Leona'' and 
    new terms ``Semil 34'' and ``Semil 43'' are added immediately following 
    the ``Booth 3'' to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 915.332  Florida avocado maturity regulation.
    
        (a) * * *
        (2) * * *
    
                                                                             Table I
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                Min.                          Min.                          Min.
                           Variety                         A date   Min. wt.    diam.    B date   Min. wt.    diam.    C date   Min. wt.    diam.    D date
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Tower II............................................      8-01        14   3\6/16\      8-15        12   3\4/16\      8-29        10   3\2/16\      9-05
    Beta................................................      8-08        18   3\8/16\      8-15        16   3\5/16\      8-29        14   3\3/16\      9-05
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Loretta.............................................      8-22        30   4\3/16\      9-05        26  3\15/16\      9-19        22  3\12/16\      9-26
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Arue................................................      5-16        16  ........      5-30        14   3\3/16\      6-20        12  ........      7-04
    Donnie..............................................      5-23        16   3\5/16\      6-06        14   3\4/16\      6-20        12  ........      7-04
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Leona...............................................      9-26        18  3\10/16\     10-03        16  ........  ........  ........  ........     10-10
    Melendez............................................      9-26        26  3\14/16\     10-10        22  3\11/16\     10-24        18   3\7/16\     11-07
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Semil 34............................................     10-17        18  3\10/16\     10-31        16   3\8/16\     11-14        14   3\5/16\     11-28
    Semil 43............................................     10-24        18  3\10/16\      11-7        16   3\8/16\     11-21        14   3\5/16\     12-05
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    * * * * *
    
    [[Page 45466]]
    
        3. In Sec. 944.31, Table 1, the entry for ``Tower'' is removed and 
    an entry for ``Tower II'' is inserted in its place, the entries for 
    ``Beta, Loretta, Arue, Donnie,'' and ``Leona'' are revised and a new 
    term ``Melendez'' is added immediately following the term ``Leona'' and 
    new terms ``Semil 34'' and ``Semil 43'' are added immediately following 
    the term ``Booth 3'' to read as follows:
    
    
    Sec. 944.31  Avocado import maturity regulation.
    
        (a) * * *
        (2) * * *
    
                                                                             Table I
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                Min.                          Min.                          Min.
                           Variety                         A date   Min. wt.    diam.    B date   Min. wt.    diam.    C date   Min. wt.    diam.    D date
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Tower II............................................      8-01        14   3\6/16\      8-15        12   3\4/16\      8-29        10   3\2/16\      9-05
    Beta................................................      8-08        18   3\8/16\      8-15        16   3\5/16\      8-29        14   3\3/16\      9-05
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Loretta.............................................      8-22        30   4\3/16\      9-05        26  3\15/16\      9-19        22  3\12/16\      9-26
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Arue................................................      5-16        16  ........      5-30        14   3\3/16\      6-20        12  ........      7-04
    Donnie..............................................      5-23        16   3\5/16\      6-06        14   3\4/16\      6-20        12  ........      7-04
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Leona...............................................      9-26        18  3\10/16\     10-03        16  ........  ........  ........  ........     10-10
    Melendez............................................      9-26        26  3\14/16\     10-10        22  3\11/16\     10-24        18   3\7/16\     11-07
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    Semil 34............................................     10-17        18  3\10/16\     10-31        16   3\8/16\     11-14        14   3\5/16\     11-28
    Semil 43............................................     10-24        18  3\10/16\      11-7        16   3\8/16\     11-21        14   3\5/16\     12-05
     
                       *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *                  *
    --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    
    * * * * *
        Dated: August 17, 1999.
    Robert C. Keeney,
    Deputy Administrator, Fruit and Vegetable Programs.
    [FR Doc. 99-21665 Filed 8-18-99; 8:45 am]
    BILLING CODE 3410-02-P
    
    
    

Document Information

Published:
08/20/1999
Department:
Agricultural Marketing Service
Entry Type:
Proposed Rule
Action:
Proposed rule.
Document Number:
99-21665
Dates:
Comments must be received by September 20, 1999.
Pages:
45461-45466 (6 pages)
Docket Numbers:
Docket No. FV99-915-2 PR
PDF File:
99-21665.pdf
CFR: (2)
7 CFR 915.332
7 CFR 944.31