Compilation of Rules and Regulations of the State of Georgia Department 469 - AGRICULTURAL COMMODITY COMMISSION FOR PEACHES
Department 469 – Agricultural Commodity Commission for Peaches
Overview:
This department regulates the marketing and quality control of peaches produced in Georgia. It establishes a system to promote, research, and maintain the quality of Georgia peaches, ensuring fair practices in the industry.
1. Product Covered
The regulations apply specifically to peaches grown in the state of Georgia.
2. Area of Jurisdiction
The entire state of Georgia is covered under these rules for peach production and marketing.
3. Purpose and Scope
The Commission focuses on:
Conducting research to improve peach cultivation and quality.
Promoting Georgia peaches through marketing campaigns.
Educating growers and the public about peach production and benefits.
Establishing grading standards to classify peaches based on quality.
Regulating trade practices to prevent unfair dealings in the peach market.
4. Term and Operation Period
The marketing order operates annually, typically from July 1 through June 30 each year.
It continues in effect unless officially terminated by law.
5. Approval Process
The marketing order requires approval from the producers by:
At least 65% of producers, representing 51% of the total peach volume produced, or
At least 51% of producers, representing 65% of the total peach volume.
Approval may also be given through nonprofit agricultural marketing organizations representing peach producers.
6. Funding and Assessments
The Commission is funded through assessments (fees) collected from producers, handlers, and processors, such as:
Up to 10 cents per bushel for fresh peaches.
Lower rates for processed peaches (including wine, pickles, and spiced peaches).
These assessments help finance research, promotion, education, and administrative costs.
7. Collection Method
Handlers, packers, and processors deduct the assessment fees from payments made to producers and remit these funds to the Commissioner of Agriculture.
8. Administration
The Commissioner of Agriculture oversees the administration and enforcement of the marketing order, including the collection of assessments.
9. Contracts and Cooperation
The Commission may enter contracts to further its work, including agreements with other organizations such as the Georgia Peach Council.
10. Record Keeping
Producers, handlers, and processors are required to maintain accurate records of peach production, sales, and purchases.
These records must be available for inspection and audit by the Commission and state officials.
Summary Table:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Product | Peaches |
| Jurisdiction | Entire state of Georgia |
| Purpose | Research, promotion, education, grading, fair trade |
| Approval | Majority producer approval based on numbers and volume |
| Funding | Assessments per bushel on fresh and processed peaches |
| Collection | Deducted by handlers and processors from payments |
| Administration | Managed by Commissioner of Agriculture |
| Record Keeping | Mandatory maintenance and access for audits |
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