Dec 23, 2014

USDA seeks nominees for blueberry board

USDA is seeking nominations for the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC).

USHBC is composed of 16 members and 16 alternates. Selected nominees would replace seven members and seven alternates whose terms will expire Dec. 31, 2015. The council will hold elections to fill eight seats that represent U.S. regional producers and recommend nominees to fill six seats representing importers, exporters and the public, according to USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS).

USHBC meets periodically to review marketing and research activities that benefit the industry. The national program is industry-funded and supports the national marketing and promotion of highbush blueberries. AMS oversees board activities.

Nominations for the importer, exporter and public seats are due to USHBC by Feb. 9. Nominations for the regional producer seats are due by Feb. 18.

Visit USHBC’s website for a copy of the application, or call USHBC Executive Director Mark Villata at 916-983-0111. You can also call Maureen Pello, USDA marketing specialist, at 503-632-8848.