Oranges, Grapefruit, Tangerines, and Tangelos Grown in Florida; Exemption for Shipments of Tree Run Citrus

The Department of Agriculture is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim final rule that established an exemption for shipments of small quantities of tree run citrus from the rules and regulations under the Florida citrus marketing order(order). The order regulates the handling of oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and tangelos grown in Florida and is administered locally by the Citrus Administrative Committee (Committee). Under rule, shipments of tree run citrus continue to be exempt from grade, size, and assessment requirements under the order. Producers can ship 150 1\3/5\ bushel boxes, per variety, per shipment of their own citrus free from order regulations, not to exceed 3,000 boxes per variety season. The Committee believes this action may be a way to increase fresh market shipments, develop new markets, and improve grower returns.