Fresh Prunes Grown in Designated Counties in Washington and in Umatilla County, OR; Suspension of Handling Regulations, Establishment of Reporting Requirements, and Suspension of the Fresh Prune Import Regulation

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final rule, without change, an interim final rule suspending the handling regulations prescribed under the Washington-Oregon fresh prune marketing order for the 2006 and future seasons. The marketing order regulates the handling of fresh prunes grown in designated counties in Washington and in Umatilla County, Oregon, and is administered locally by the Washington-Oregon Prune Marketing Committee (Committee). This rule continues in effect the action that suspended the minimum grade, size, quality, maturity, and inspection requirements for fresh prune handlers under the marketing order. During the suspension of the handling regulations, reports from handlers will continue to be required to obtain information necessary to administer the marketing order. In addition, this rule continues in effect the suspension of fresh prune import inspection and minimum quality, grade, size, and maturity requirements.