Reduced Assessment Rates for Specified Marketing Orders

This interim final rule decreases the assessment rates established under Marketing Order Nos. 922, 923, and 924 for the 1997- 98, and subsequent fiscal periods. The Washington Apricot Marketing Committee, Washington Cherry Marketing Committee, and Washington-Oregon Fresh Prune Committee (Committees) are responsible for local administration of the marketing orders which regulate the handling of apricots and cherries grown in designated counties in Washington, and prunes grown in designated counties in Washington and in Umatilla County, Oregon. Authorization to assess apricot, cherry, and prune handlers enables the Committees to incur expenses that are reasonable and necessary to administer the programs. The 1997-98 fiscal periods for these marketing orders cover the period April 1 through March 31. The assessment rates will continue in effect indefinitely until amended, suspended, or terminated.