AMS No. 281-12

Gwen Sparks, (202) 260-8210

gwen.sparks@ams.usda.gov

WASHINGTON, Dec. 18, 2012 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture is seeking nominations for the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council.

The council is composed of 16 members and 16 alternates. Selected nominees would replace three members (one handler and two importers) and their respective alternates whose terms will expire Dec. 31, 2013. The council will recommend nominees to fill these seats.

The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council meets periodically to review marketing and research activities that benefit the industry. The national program, which became effective in 2000, is industry-funded and supports the national marketing and promotion of highbush blueberries. USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) oversees board activities to ensure fiscal responsibility, program efficiency and fair treatment of participating stakeholders.

USDA encourages board membership that reflects the diversity of the individuals served by the programs. All eligible women, minorities and persons with disabilities are invited to seek nomination for a seat on the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council by the Jan. 18, 2013, deadline.

Visit www.blueberry.org for a copy of the application, or contact the council’s Executive Director, Mark Villata at (916) 983-0111 or e-mail mvillata@ushbc.org. You may also contact Maureen Pello, USDA Marketing Specialist, by phone (503) 632-8848 or e-mail maureen.pello@ams.usda.gov, for more information.

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