WAC 16-529-005   Marketing order for Washington alfalfa seed -- Policy statement.  (1) The marketing of alfalfa seed within this state is in the public interest. It is vital to the continued economic well-being of the citizens of this state and their general welfare that its alfalfa seed be properly promoted by:

     (a) Enabling producers of alfalfa seed to help themselves in establishing orderly, fair, sound, efficient, and unhampered marketing, grading, and standardizing of the alfalfa seed they produce; and

     (b) Working towards stabilizing the agricultural industry by increasing production of alfalfa seed within the state.

     (2) That it is in the overriding public interest that support for the alfalfa seed industry be clearly expressed, that adequate protection be given to the industry and its activities and operations, and that alfalfa seed be promoted individually and as part of a comprehensive agricultural industry to:

     (a) Enhance the reputation and image of Washington state's alfalfa seed.

     (b) Increase the sale and use of Washington state's alfalfa seed in local, domestic, and foreign markets.

     (c) Protect the public by educating the public in reference to the quality, care, and methods used in the production of Washington state's alfalfa seed.

     (d) Increase the knowledge of the qualities and value of Washington state's alfalfa seed and products.

     (e) Support and engage in programs or activities that benefit the planting, production, harvesting, handling, processing, marketing, and uses of alfalfa seed produced in Washington state.

     (3) The director is authorized to implement, administer, and enforce chapter 15.65 RCW through the adoption of this marketing order.

     (4) The Washington state alfalfa seed commodity board exists primarily for the benefit of the people of the state of Washington and its economy, and with oversight by the director, the board is authorized to speak on behalf of Washington state government with regard to alfalfa seed under the provisions of this marketing order.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 15.65.047 and chapter 34.05 RCW. 05-08-010, § 16-529-005, filed 3/25/05, effective 4/25/05.]