WAC 16-550-005   Marketing order for Washington blueberries -- Policy statement.  (1) The marketing of blueberries 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 blueberries be properly promoted by:

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

     (b) Working towards stabilizing the agricultural industry by increasing consumption of blueberries within the state, the nation, and internationally.

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

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

     (b) Increase the sale and use of Washington state's blueberries 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 blueberries.

     (d) Increase the knowledge of the health-giving qualities and dietetic value of Washington state's blueberries and products.

     (e) Support and engage in programs or activities that benefit the planting, production, harvesting, handling, processing, marketing, and uses of blueberries 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 blueberry 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 blueberries under the provisions of this marketing order.



[Statutory Authority: RCW 15.65.047 and chapter 34.05 RCW. 06-17-078, § 16-550-005, filed 8/14/06, effective 9/14/06.]