Washington Administrative Code Title 224 - Fruit Commission
Overview of WAC Title 224 – Fruit Commission
WAC Title 224 governs the Washington State Fruit Commission, a state agency established to promote, develop, and improve the fruit industry in Washington State. The commission works with fruit growers, packers, and marketers to enhance the quality, marketability, and competitiveness of Washington-grown fruits both domestically and internationally.
Washington is a major fruit-producing state, known especially for apples, cherries, pears, and other tree fruits. The Fruit Commission plays a key role in supporting this critical agricultural sector.
Purpose and Role of the Fruit Commission under WAC Title 224
Promotion and Marketing: The commission organizes and funds marketing campaigns to increase demand for Washington fruits in various markets.
Research and Development: Supports scientific research to improve fruit quality, storage, pest control, and production methods.
Quality Standards: Works to ensure high-quality standards for Washington fruit to maintain consumer confidence and market access.
Industry Coordination: Acts as a liaison between growers, packers, processors, and government agencies to address industry challenges and opportunities.
Education and Outreach: Provides information, resources, and training for industry participants and the public about Washington fruit.
Key Provisions of WAC Title 224
Establishment and Authority:
The code establishes the Fruit Commission as a state agency with legal authority to act on behalf of the fruit industry.
It outlines the powers granted to the Commission, including conducting promotions, research, and other activities.
Membership and Governance:
The WAC defines how commissioners are selected, their terms, and qualifications.
The commission typically includes representatives from various sectors of the fruit industry, including growers and packers.
Governance rules cover how meetings are held, decision-making processes, and roles of officers.
Assessment and Funding:
The Commission is funded through assessments (fees) on fruit producers or handlers.
WAC Title 224 explains how these assessments are calculated, collected, and used.
Funds must be managed transparently and used in ways that benefit the industry as a whole.
Marketing and Advertising Programs:
The code authorizes the Commission to design and implement promotional campaigns for Washington fruits.
This can include advertising, trade shows, public relations, and partnerships with retailers and distributors.
Research Initiatives:
The Commission can fund research projects aimed at improving fruit production, pest management, disease control, storage techniques, and other relevant areas.
Collaboration with universities, extension services, and research institutions is common.
Quality Control and Certification:
The Fruit Commission may establish guidelines or programs to certify fruit quality and support standardization.
This helps maintain consumer trust and protects the reputation of Washington fruit.
Reporting and Accountability:
The WAC requires the Commission to report on its activities, financial status, and effectiveness.
Transparency and accountability to industry members and the public are emphasized.
Importance of WAC Title 224 – Fruit Commission
Industry Strengthening: By promoting Washington fruit, the Commission helps growers remain competitive in national and global markets.
Economic Impact: The fruit industry is a major contributor to Washington’s economy, and the Commission’s work supports jobs and rural communities.
Quality Assurance: Maintaining high standards protects consumers and sustains the long-term reputation of Washington fruit.
Innovation: Supporting research encourages continual improvements in production and sustainability.
Summary
Washington Administrative Code Title 224 provides the legal and administrative foundation for the Washington State Fruit Commission. It outlines the Commission’s authority, governance, funding, and activities to promote and support the state’s fruit industry.
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