Press ReleaseObey, Kohl urge Wisconsin growers to let USDA know their views on production controlsWindow of Opportunity for Public Comment is Now, Say Wisconsin Lawmakers April 4, 2002 -- Washington DC -- Seventh District Congressman Dave Obey and Senator Herb Kohl advised all Wisconsin cranberry growers to contact the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to register their view on whether or out there should be another year of controls on cranberry production. A price collapse in the cranberry industry due to overproduction his Meant that for the past two years, the industry has been working under a marketing order that places strict controls on production, with the aim of restoring prices to a level where growers can make money. The Department of Agriculture is currently reviewing whether or not to impose production controls for a third year. Earlier this year, the Cranberry Marketing Committee (CMC), which advises USDA on policy, deadlocked on the question . According to CMC estimates, domestic production this year will he about 5.7 million barrels, with prices to growers in the range of $24.50 - $35.40 per barrel. However, an estimate by Ed Jesse, economist at the University of Wisconsin and himself a member of the CMC, suggests those numbers could be underestimating production by us much 4s a million barrels, If Jesse's estimate is correct, prices would be in the $16.50 - $23.60 per barrel range. That could mean a loss to growers of as much as $70 million. Wisconsin, with 40% of national cranberry production -- the largest of any state -- could lose about $30 million. "USDA needs to hear from cranberry growers in Wisconsin," Obey said the Agriculture Marketing Service at USDA is weighing the question of production cranberry controls right now. Whether you are for or against controls, now is the time to contact the Department if you want your voice to be beard." "As the country's major players in the cranberry industry, Wisconsin growers should have influence over questions of controls on production. it's important that USDA hears from those who will be most affected by the decision they make," Kohl said, Obey and Kohl said that because the mail system throughout the federal government is Still so unpredictable following last year's Anthrax attacks, it would be, best for those who wish to register an opinion to fax or e-mail their views to USDA. Growers can register their views by contacting Robert C. Keeney, Deputy Administrator for Fruit and Vegetable Programs at the Agricultural Marketing Service, at the following: Fax: (202) 720-0016 E-mail: [email protected]
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