Walnuts Grown in California; Suspension of Provision Regarding Eligibility of Walnut Marketing Board Members

The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim final rule suspending the provision of the walnut marketing order (order) pertaining to eligibility of members to serve on the Walnut Marketing Board (Board). The order regulates the handling of walnuts grown in California, and the Board is responsible for local administration of the order. This action is an interim measure that addresses a change in industry structure affecting cooperative marketing association related positions. This allows the Board to continue to represent the industry's interests while the order is amended to reflect the change in industry structure. The Board unanimously recommended a suspension action by mail balloting in early July 2005.