Jul 29, 2024

Watermelon Board opens comment period for assessment increase

The National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB) has proposed a 3 cent per hundredweight increase in its assessment rate, raising the total to 9 cents per hundredweight.

This proposed hike, split between growers and shippers and fully covered by importers, follows a favorable industry support report and a February 2024 Board vote.

The proposal has entered the USDA Rulemaking Process, which includes a 30-day public comment period. Industry members are encouraged to share their views on the potential increase until Aug. 8, 2024.

For more information on the proposed assessment increase, visit watermelon.org/assessment.