Revision of User Fees for 1997 Crop Cotton Classification Services to Growers

The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is reducing user fees for cotton producers for 1997 crop cotton classification services under the Cotton Statistics and Estimates Act in accordance with the formula provided in the Uniform Cotton Classing Fees Act of 1987. The 1996 user fee for this classification service was $1.50 per bale. This rule would reduce the fee for the 1997 crop to $1.40 per bale. The reduction in fees resulted from increased efficiency in classing operations. The fee is sufficient to recover the costs of providing classification services, including costs for administration, supervision, and development and maintenance of standards.