Apricots Grown in Designated Counties in Washington; Temporary Suspension of Grade Requirements

The Department of Agriculture (Department) is adopting as a final rule, without change, the provisions of an interim final rule suspending for the 1996 season only, the minimum grade requirements (Washington No. 1), for fresh shipments of apricots grown in Washington. This change was recommended by the Washington Apricot Marketing Committee (committee), which works with the Department in administering the marketing order covering apricots grown in designated counties in Washington. This rule enables handlers to ship more fruit in fresh market channels, taking into consideration the damage caused to Washington apricots by freezing temperatures during the growing season. This change is expected to increase returns to producers and to make more fresh apricots available to consumers.