Washington Administrative Code Title 224 - Fruit Commission

Washington Administrative Code (WAC) Title 224 – Fruit Commission

Overview:
WAC Title 224 contains the rules and regulations governing the Washington State Fruit Commission (WSFC). This commission is responsible for promoting the general welfare of the state's soft fruit industry, particularly through marketing, advertising, research, and education related to Washington-grown fruits.

Key Functions of the Washington State Fruit Commission:

Promotion & Marketing:

Enhances market development both domestically and internationally for Washington-grown fruits (especially soft fruits like peaches, nectarines, apricots, prunes, and plums).

Research & Development:

Funds scientific studies to improve fruit production, storage, packaging, and handling techniques.

Grower Assessments:

Imposes assessments on growers or handlers to finance commission operations.

WAC Title 224 outlines how these assessments are calculated, collected, and enforced.

Commission Structure and Operations:

Establishes rules for the composition, duties, and meetings of the Fruit Commission.

Sets ethical standards and reporting requirements for commission members and staff.

Recordkeeping & Reporting:

Details requirements for producers and handlers to keep records and submit reports related to production and shipment volumes.

Legal Authority:

The Washington State Fruit Commission operates under the authority granted by the Revised Code of Washington (RCW) Chapter 15.28, which allows for the creation of agricultural commodity commissions to support marketing and research.

Typical Topics Found in WAC 224:

Definitions relevant to fruit growers and handlers

Procedures for budget development and approval

Guidelines for the collection of fees and assessments

Rules on compliance, enforcement, and penalties

Policies related to the use of collected funds

 

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