Tomatoes Grown in the Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas; Proposed Termination of Marketing Order 965

Résumé

This rule proposes to terminate the Federal marketing order for tomatoes grown in the Lower Rio Grande Valley in Texas (order) and the rules and regulations issued thereunder. In recent years, this industry has declined significantly in numbers of producers and handlers. In March 1959, when the order commenced, there were 2,488 producers and 61 handlers of tomatoes. Currently, there are approximately 10 producers, 5 of which are also handlers. The Texas Valley Tomato Committee (committee) last met on October 1, 1991, to conduct nominations. However, only a few of the former committee members are currently producers or handlers in the tomato industry and eligible to serve on the committee. Handling regulations have not been implemented since the 1973-74 fiscal period and there is no indication that the industry will be revived. Thus, there is no need for the Department of Agriculture to continue operation of this order.