Cranberries Grown in the States of Massachusetts, et al.; Increased Assessment Rate

This rule increases the assessment rate established under the cranberry marketing order for the 2001-2002 and subsequent fiscal years from $.08 to $.18 per barrel of cranberries handled. Currently, funds derived from assessments are used to cover expenses incurred by the Cranberry Marketing Committee (Committee) in the performance of its duties and functions under the order and to fund an export market development program. The Committee is responsible for local administration of the marketing order which regulates the handling of cranberries grown in the production area. The proposed $.10 increase will be used to fund a domestic market development program. The fiscal year began September 1 and ends August 30. The assessment rate will remain in effect indefinitely unless modified, suspended, or terminated.