Melons Grown in South Texas; Change in Cantaloup Container Requirements

This interim final rule changes the container requirements for cantaloups grown in South Texas under Marketing Order No. 979. This rule increases the depth of cantaloup cartons from 10\3/8\ to 11 \3/8\ inches. The South Texas Melon Committee (committee), the agency that locally administers the marketing order for melons grown in South Texas, unanimously recommended this change. This change will allow handlers to use deeper cartons in shipping larger cantaloups. The use of deeper cartons is expected to result in less damage during packing and shipment and foster buyer confidence. This change should be in effect as soon as possible, to give handlers adequate time to order cartons, and manufacturers an opportunity to make them, for the 1996 shipping season. This rule also corrects telephone area codes, and removes out-of-date handler assessment information.