Watermelon Research and Promotion Plan; Redistricting and Importer Representation

This rule changes the boundaries of all seven districts under the Watermelon Research and Promotion Plan (Plan) to reapportion the producer, handler, and importer memberships on the National Watermelon Promotion Board (Board). In addition, the Board is adding two importer seats based on the quantity of watermelon imports in the past three years. These changes are based on a review of the production and assessments paid in each district and the amount of watermelon import assessments, which the Plan requires at least every five years. As a result of these changes, the importer seats will increase from six to eight. Therefore, the total Board membership will increase from 35 to 37 members. In addition, a new Code of Federal Regulation section is added to reflect the importer representation on the Board.