Release No.:194-13

Hakim Fobia (202) 690-0488

hakim.fobia@ams.usda.gov

WASHINGTON, Feb. 24, 2014 – Tart cherry growers and processors in seven states will vote from March 10, 2014, through March 28, 2014, on whether to continue their federal marketing order.

Growers and processors who have produced or processed tart cherries in Michigan, New York, Pennsylvania, Oregon, Utah, Washington and Wisconsin between July 1, 2011, through June 30, 2012, are eligible to vote. A continuance referendum is required every six years.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) would consider continuing the marketing order if more than 50 percent of the growers and processors, or more than 50 percent of the tart cherry volume represented in the referendum, vote in favor of continuance.

The tart cherry marketing order allows the industry to conduct production and marketing research and promotional activities for the benefit of growers. The Cherry Industry Administrative Board administers the marketing order, which also authorizes volume control to deal with large crops, under USDA supervision.

Notice of the referendum will be published in the February 25, 2014, Federal Register. The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) will mail ballots and voting instructions to all growers and processors of record. Eligible growers and processors who do not receive ballots may contact Christian D. Nissen, Regional Director, by mail at Southeast Marketing Field Office, Marketing Order and Agreement Division, Fruit and Vegetable Program, AMS, USDA; 799 Overlook Drive, Suite A, Winter Haven, Fla. 33884; by e-mail at Christian.Nissen@ams.usda.gov; by phone at (863) 324-3375; or by fax at (863) 325-8793.