Irish Potatoes Grown in Washington; Modifications of the Rules and Regulations

The Department of Agriculture is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim rule that extended the one-year suspension of the minimum quality, maturity, pack, marking, and inspection requirements prescribed for russet potato varieties under the Washington potato marketing order for the 2011-2012 and subsequent fiscal periods. The interim rule also extended the reporting requirement for russet potato handlers for the purpose of obtaining information necessary for administering the marketing order. This change is expected to reduce overall industry expenses and increase net returns to producers and handlers while allowing the industry the opportunity to continue exploring alternative marketing strategies.