Up to 25 new members to be appointed for two-year terms, with a focus on representing the full spectrum of the produce sector.

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is actively seeking nominations from stakeholders within the specialty crop sector to join the Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee (FVIAC). This call for nominations aims to fill up to 25 positions on the committee, with new members set to begin their two-year terms following the expiration of current members’ terms on October 28, 2024. Nominations must be submitted by September 3, 2024.

Individuals interested in serving on the FVIAC can find detailed information about the committee’s background, the qualifications required for candidates, and the necessary nomination forms on the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) website, specifically on the FVIAC Nomination Information webpage. Nomination packages are preferred via email to SCPFVIAC@usda.gov, but they can also be mailed to Jennie M. Varela at the USDA’s office in Winter Haven, Florida.

The FVIAC, established in 2001, operates under the administration of the USDA’s AMS. The committee’s members represent a broad spectrum of the fruit and vegetable industry, including shippers, wholesalers, brokers, retailers, processors, fresh-cut processors, food service suppliers, state agencies, state departments of agriculture, and trade associations. The committee convenes at least twice a year to develop recommendations on various issues impacting the U.S. produce industry.

The USDA emphasizes the importance of diversity among the nominees. They encourage individuals who reflect the full range of the produce sector in terms of size and scale of operations, industry roles, demographic characteristics, geographic locations, and production methods to apply. Qualified candidates should be actively engaged in the fruit and vegetable industry and fulfill one of the specified roles.

According to the press release, the USDA aims to ensure that the advisory committee represents the diversity and breadth of the industry it serves. This inclusive approach seeks to bring various perspectives and expertise to the table, enhancing the committee’s ability to address the sector’s challenges and opportunities effectively.

The Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee plays a crucial role in advising the USDA on policies and programs that impact the produce industry. By bringing together experts from different areas within the sector, the committee helps shape policies that support industry growth, sustainability, and competitiveness in the global market.

To access more information about the FVIAC, including the committee’s history, candidate qualifications, and the nomination process, stakeholders are directed to visit the AMS Fruit and Vegetable Industry Advisory Committee webpage. This resource provides comprehensive details to guide potential nominees through the application process.