[Federal Register Volume 67, Number 164 (Friday, August 23, 2002)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 54567-54572]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 02-21536]


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DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Agricultural Marketing Service

7 CFR Part 925

[Docket No. FV02-925-2 FIR]


Grapes Grown in a Designated Area of Southeastern California; 
Revision to Container and Pack Requirements

AGENCY: Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Department of Agriculture (USDA) is adopting, as a final 
rule, without change, an interim final rule which revised the container 
and pack requirements currently prescribed under the California grape 
marketing order (order). The order regulates the handling of grapes 
grown in a designated area of Southeastern California and is 
administered locally by the California Desert Grape Administrative 
Committee (Committee). This rule continues in effect the addition of 
four new containers (38L, 38M, CP, and CP1) to the list of containers 
authorized for use by grape handlers regulated under the grape order. 
This rule continues to allow reusable plastic containers (RPCs) in 
shipping grapes, and continues in effect revisions to lot stamping 
requirements for RPCs, revisions exempting master containers containing 
individual consumer packages from the minimum net weight requirements 
specified under the order, and revisions to marking and minimum net 
weight requirements for clarity. This rule is expected to help handlers 
compete more effectively in the marketplace, better meet the needs of 
buyers, and to improve producer returns.

EFFECTIVE DATE: September 23, 2002.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Rose Aguayo, California Marketing 
Field Office, Marketing Order Administration Branch, Fruit and 
Vegetable Programs, AMS, USDA, 2202 Monterey Street, suite 102B, 
Fresno, California 93721; telephone: (559) 487-5901, Fax: (559) 487-
5906; or George Kelhart, Technical Advisor, Marketing Order 
Administration Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Programs, AMS, USDA, 1400 
Independence Avenue SW, STOP 0237, Washington, DC 20250-0237; 
telephone: (202) 720-2491, Fax: (202) 720-8938.
    Small businesses may request information on complying with this 
regulation by contacting Jay Guerber, Marketing Order Administration 
Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Programs, AMS, USDA, 1400 Independence 
Avenue SW, STOP 0237, Washington, DC 20250-0237; telephone: (202) 720-
2491, Fax: (202) 720-8938, or e-mail: [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This rule is issued under Marketing Order 
No. 925 (7 CFR part 925), as amended, regulating the handling of grapes 
grown in California, hereinafter referred to as the ``order.'' The 
order is effective under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 
1937, as amended (7 U.S.C. 601-674), hereinafter referred to as the 
``Act.''
    USDA is issuing this rule in conformance with Executive Order 
12866.
    This rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12988, Civil 
Justice Reform. This rule is not intended to have retroactive effect. 
This rule will not preempt any State or local laws, regulations, or 
policies, unless they present an irreconcilable conflict with this 
rule.
    The Act provides that administrative proceedings must be exhausted 
before parties may file suit in court. Under section 608c(15)(A) of the 
Act, any handler subject to an order may file with USDA a petition 
stating that the order, any provision of the order, or any obligation 
imposed in connection with the order is not in accordance with law and 
request a modification of the order or to be exempted therefrom. A 
handler is afforded the opportunity for a hearing on the petition. 
After the hearing USDA would rule on the petition. The Act provides 
that the district court of the United States in any district in which 
the handler is an inhabitant, or has his or her principal place of 
business, has jurisdiction to review USDA's ruling on the petition, 
provided an action is filed not later than 20 days after the date of 
the entry of the ruling.
    This rule continues in effect language in Sec. 925.304 of the 
order's rules and regulations which added four new containers (38L, 
38M, CP, and CP1) to the list of containers authorized for use by grape 
handlers regulated under the grape order, allowed RPCs in shipping 
grapes, revised the lot stamping requirements for RPCs, and exempted 
master containers containing individual consumer packages from the 
minimum net weight requirements specified under the order. This rule is 
expected to help handlers compete more effectively in the marketplace, 
better meet the needs of buyers, and to improve producer returns. The 
Committee unanimously recommended these changes at its February 12, 
2002, meeting and clarified via a fax vote on February 21, 2002.

[[Page 54568]]

Addition of Four New Containers and Usage of RPCs

    Section 925.52(a)(4) of the grape order provides authority to 
regulate size, capacity, weight, dimensions, marking, materials, and 
pack of containers, which may be used in the handling of grapes.
    Prior to publication of the interim final rule (67 FR 20607, April 
26, 2002), Sec. 925.304(b)(1) of the order's rules and regulations 
outlined container and pack requirements for grapes and required such 
grapes to be packed in containers which were new and clean and which 
otherwise met the requirements of Secs. 1380.14, 1380.19(n), 1436.37, 
and 1436.38 of Title 3: California Code of Regulations (CA Code of 
Regulations).
    Additionally, prior to publication of the above-mentioned interim 
final rule, Secs. 925.304(b)(1)(i) through (b)(1)(iii) of the order's 
rules and regulations authorized ten containers (28, 38J, 38K, 38Q, 
38R, 38S, 38T, 38U, 38V, and a 5 kilo) for use by grape handlers, and 
also authorized the Committee to approve other types of containers for 
experimental or research purposes.
    Section 925.304(f) states that certain container and pack 
requirements cited in this regulation are specified in the Code of 
Regulations and are incorporated by reference and that a notice of any 
change in these materials will be published in the Federal Register.
    Container requirements prescribed under the California grape order 
were revised in January 1998 (63 FR 655, January 7, 1998). In March 
1998, the 38L grape lug was added to the CA Code of Regulations, but 
had not yet been added to the list of approved containers under the 
Federal order. The 38L grape lug is defined as any container with an 
inside depth of 7\5/8\ inches, an outside width of 13\11/16\ inches, 
and an outside length of 16 inches.
    Since that time, many retailers had asked handlers to pack grapes 
in specific RPCs, corrugated lugs, and master containers that are not 
authorized as containers under Sec. 925.304(b)(1)(i). There are several 
manufacturers of these containers, and each manufacturer's container 
dimensions vary slightly. During previous seasons, handlers applied for 
and obtained Committee approval to use these containers on an 
experimental basis.
    Prior to February 2002, the Grape and Tree Fruit League (League) 
petitioned the California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) to 
add the 38M grape lug to the list of standardized containers in the CA 
Code of Regulations. Standard containers represent container types that 
are recognized by the industry and adopted by the retail trade. The 
CDFA expected the 38M grape lug to be standardized in the CA Code of 
Regulations by May 2002. The 38M grape lug was standardized in the CA 
Code of Regulations on May 29, 2002.
    At its February 12, 2002, meeting, the Committee unanimously 
recommended and USDA approved adding most of the containers previously 
approved as experimental containers, including the 38M grape lug, to 
the list of containers authorized under the order's rules and 
regulations. In reviewing container dimensions, the Committee concluded 
that the depth, width, and length dimensions for the 38L, 38M, CP, and 
CP1 grape lugs encompass the dimensions for the containers previously 
approved by the Committee for experimental purposes. Therefore, the 
Committee unanimously recommended, through a fax vote on February 21, 
2002, and USDA approved adding the following four containers to the 
list of ten containers authorized in the order's rules and regulations 
(67 FR 20607, April 26, 2002):

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Container                  Depth inside                Width outside              Length outside
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38L Grape Lug...............  7\5/8\....................  13\11/16\.................  16
38M Grape Lug...............  4\1/4\-5\3/4\.............  15\3/8\-16................  23\1/2\-24
CP Grape Lug................  3\15/16\-4\3/4\...........  15\3/4\-15\9/16\..........  23\1/2\-23\3/4\
CP1 Grape Lug...............  4\3/4\-5..................  19\1/2\-20................  23\3/4\-24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    These containers may be constructed of several different materials 
(e.g., plastic or fiberboard) but should conform to the range of 
dimensions listed above.
    These containers are an integral part of the marketing efforts used 
by many handlers to meet market demands. Some of these containers are 
RPCs. Retailers have requested that fruit be shipped in RPCs, as it can 
be cooled quickly in these containers. This, in turn, helps ensure that 
the grapes are fresh when they arrive at destination. The use of RPCs 
may result in substantial savings to retailers for storage and disposal 
as retailers return RPCs to a central area for cleaning and 
redistribution. Cost savings may accrue to handlers, as well, since 
they do not have to buy new containers for each shipment.
    Prior to issuance of an interim final rule (67 FR 20607, April 26, 
2002), Section 925.304(b)(1) of the rules and regulations required 
grapes to be packed in new and clean containers. Containers, other than 
RPCs, are intended to be used once and discarded. RPCs are typically 
delivered to the retailer, emptied, and returned to the clearinghouse 
for cleaning and redistribution. As RPCs are reusable, the Committee 
recommended that the rules and regulations be revised to allow RPCs to 
be reused, provided such containers are cleaned. Allowing RPCs to be 
reused is expected to reduce the burden on handlers, as they will not 
have to apply and obtain Committee approval annually to utilize them.
    Adding these four containers to the order's rules and regulations 
and allowing RPCs to be reused will enable handlers to meet their 
customer requirements this season. This action will help the industry 
in providing consumers with high quality grapes, promoting buyer 
satisfaction, and improving producer returns. This action will not 
impact the grape import requirements.

Lot Stamping Requirements

    Section 925.55 of the order requires inspection and certification 
of grapes, handled by handlers. Prior to publication of an interim 
final rule (67 FR 20607, April 26, 2002), Sec. 925.304(b)(4) of the 
grape order's rules and regulations required containers of grapes to be 
plainly marked with the lot stamp number corresponding to the lot 
inspection conducted by an authorized inspector, and specified that 
such requirement shall not apply to containers in the center tier of a 
3 box by 3 box pallet configuration.
    During the 2001 season, the Committee approved the use of RPCs for 
experimental purposes. RPCs are made of plastic and retailers send 
these reusable containers to a central clearinghouse after use for 
cleaning and sanitizing. Because RPCs are reusable, these plastic 
containers do not support markings that are permanently affixed to the 
container. All markings must be printed on cards which slip into tabs 
on

[[Page 54569]]

the front or sides of the containers. The cards are easily inserted and 
removed, and further contribute to the efficient use of the container. 
Because of their unique portability, the industry and inspection 
service are concerned that the cards on pallets of inspected containers 
could easily be moved to pallets of uninspected containers.
    The industry experimented last season with round adhesive labels on 
RPCs. The lot stamp number was stamped on the round adhesive label and 
the label was placed on the RPCs. However, it was difficult to remove 
the adhesive label in the wash cycle. Additionally, handlers found that 
workers needed to affix the adhesive label to the RPCs, and inspectors 
needed to stamp the lot stamp number on the adhesive labels, outside of 
cold storage facilities. During July 2001, temperatures in the 
production area reached 100 to 118 degrees Fahrenheit. Committee 
members estimated that for each hour that grapes were outside of cold 
storage after harvest, a day's shelf life was lost. Handler members 
calculated that affixing adhesive labels to RPCs cost the grape 
industry approximately $0.10 per grape lug in materials and labor. The 
inspection service and the Committee have presented their concerns to 
the manufacturers of these types of grape lugs. One manufacturer has 
indicated a willingness to address the problem by offering an area on 
the principal display panel where the container markings will adhere to 
the box. However, the manufacturer believes that this change may not be 
feasible in the near future.
    To address the additional time and cost of affixing adhesive labels 
to containers, the Committee unanimously recommended and the USDA 
approved the stamping of lot stamp numbers on two USDA-approved pallet 
tags, with each pallet tag affixed to opposite sides of each pallet of 
containers (67 FR 20607, April 26, 2002). The pallets will be wrapped 
with clear plastic immediately after inspection, ensuring the tags 
cannot be easily removed, although the tags remain visible beneath the 
wrap. The Committee estimated that affixing lot stamp numbers to pallet 
tags would reduce handler costs by $950,000, make handler operations 
more efficient, and will provide consumers with high quality grapes. 
Additionally, each lot will be traceable through the lot stamp, since 
the lot stamp number on the pallet tag corresponds to the lot stamp 
number annotated on the inspection certificate. This action will not 
affect imports.

Minimum Net Weight Requirements

    Section 925.52(a)(4) of the grape order provides authority to fix 
the size, capacity, weight, dimensions, markings, materials, and pack 
of the container, which may be used in the handling of grapes.
    Section 925.304(b)(2) of the order's rules and regulations 
specifies that the minimum net weight of grapes in any container, 
except for containers containing grapes packed in sawdust, cork, 
excelsior or similar packing material or packed in bags or wrapped in 
plastic or paper, and experimental containers, shall be 20 pounds based 
on the average net weight of grapes in a representative sample of 
containers.
    Prior to publication of an interim final rule (67 FR 20607, April 
26, 2002), Sec. 925.340(b)(2) further specified that containers of 
grapes packed in bags or wrapped in plastic or paper prior to being 
placed in these containers shall meet a minimum net weight requirement 
of 18 pounds.
    Several years ago, the California Table Grape Commission 
(Commission) funded a 3-year research project designed to determine if 
current practices were getting the product to the retailer and 
ultimately the consumer in the best possible condition. A study of 
grape packaging was conducted by Dr. Harry Shorey of the University of 
California at Davis and the University of California at Kearney 
Agricultural Center at Parlier. The study concluded that the California 
grape industry should modify container dimensions so that containers 
will fit better on the standard 48 x 40-inch pallets, and that the 
container minimum net weights should be reduced to 18 and 20 pounds. 
Based on these conclusions, the Committee recommended and USDA approved 
reducing the minimum net weight requirements in March 1996 to enhance 
the deliverability of grapes (61 FR 11129, March 19, 1996).
    Since that time, grape handlers have packed grapes in 18 and 20-
pound containers and marked such containers as 18 and 20 pounds. The 
minimum net weight of grapes in 20-pound containers is based on the 
average net weight of grapes in a representative sample of containers. 
The minimum net weight of grapes in 18-pound containers also is based 
on the average net weight of grapes in a representative sample of 
containers. The language in Sec. 925.304(b)(2) was changed by an 
interim final rule (67 FR 20607, April 26, 2002), to specifically 
provide that containers containing grapes packed in bags or wrapped in 
plastic or paper prior to being placed in these containers must meet a 
minimum net weight requirement of 18 pounds based on an average net 
weight of grapes in a representative sample of containers.
    Approximately 95 percent of all grapes shipped during the 2001 
season were shipped in 18-pound containers. Grapes normally lose 
moisture during shipment. To address mislabeling concerns, it is common 
practice in the industry to pack containers of grapes slightly over the 
minimum net weight required to allow for shrink, and to mark these 
containers as 18 or 20 pounds, respectively. Last season, some 
containers were packed with slightly more than 21 pounds and marked as 
21 pounds. Marking containers other than 18 or 20 pounds caused 
confusion in the marketplace and impacted handler assessments and 
statistical reporting. Thus, the Committee unanimously recommended at 
its February 12, 2002, meeting, that containers packed with slightly 
more than 18 or 20 pounds shall be marked as 18 and 20 pounds, 
respectively. To address this issue, the text of the interim final rule 
(67 FR 20607, April 26, 2002) provided that containers other than 
master containers containing individual consumer packages are to be 
marked with the minimum net weight of 18 or 20 pounds, as appropriate.
    Recently, retailers have requested master containers containing 
individual consumer packages that weigh a total of 24 pounds, 16 
pounds, or 10 pounds. An individual consumer package is a package that 
is customarily produced and distributed for sale to individuals for 
their personal consumption.
    The Committee discussed the best means of allowing handlers to meet 
orders for master containers containing individual consumer packages 
that had different minimum net weight requirements. The Committee 
estimated that approximately 2 percent of the crop is shipped in master 
containers containing individual consumer packages and unanimously 
recommended and USDA approved revising Sec. 925.304(b)(2) to exempt 
master containers containing individual consumer packages from the 
minimum net weight requirements of 18 or 20 pounds (67 FR 20607, April 
26, 2002). These changes will enable handlers to compete more 
effectively in the marketplace and to better meet the needs of buyers. 
These revisions do not impact the grape import regulation.

Final Regulatory Flexibility Analysis

    Pursuant to requirements set forth in the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act (RFA), the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) has considered the 
economic impact of

[[Page 54570]]

this action on small entities. Accordingly, AMS has prepared this final 
regulatory flexibility analysis.
    The purpose of the RFA is to fit regulatory actions to the scale of 
business subject to such actions in order that small businesses will 
not be unduly or disproportionately burdened. Marketing orders issued 
pursuant to the Act, and the rules issued thereunder, are unique in 
that they are brought about through group action of essentially small 
entities acting on their own behalf. Thus, both statutes have small 
entity orientation and compatibility.
    There are approximately 80 producers of grapes in the production 
area and approximately 26 handlers subject to regulation under the 
order. Small agricultural producers are defined by the Small Business 
Administration (SBA) (13 CFR 121.201) as those having annual receipts 
less than $750,000, and small agricultural service firms are defined as 
those whose annual receipts are less than $5,000,000.
    Last year, about 69 percent of the handlers could be considered 
small businesses under SBA's definition and about 31 percent could be 
considered large businesses. It is estimated that about 88 percent of 
the producers have annual receipts of less than $750,000. Therefore, 
the majority of handlers and producers of grapes may be classified as 
small entities.
    This rule continues in effect language in Sec. 925.304 of the 
order's rules and regulations which added four new containers (38L, 
38M, CP, and CP1) to the list of containers authorized for use by grape 
handlers regulated under the grape order, which covers grapes grown in 
a designated area of Southeastern California. This rule continues to 
allow handlers to ship grapes in RPCs, continues in effect the revised 
the lot stamping requirements for RPCs, and continues to exempt master 
containers containing individual consumer packages from the minimum net 
weight requirements specified under the order. Additionally, this rule 
continues to clarify marking requirements for 18 and 20 pound 
containers and continues in effect the removal of obsolete language in 
Secs. 925.304(a) and 925.304(b)(iii) that was applicable to the period 
June 1, 1998, through August 15, 1998.
    The order regulates the handling of grapes grown in California and 
is administered locally by the Committee. This rule is expected to help 
handlers compete more effectively in the marketplace, better meet the 
needs of buyers, and to improve producer returns. The Committee 
unanimously recommended these changes. Authority for these actions is 
provided in Secs. 925.52 and 925.55 of the order.

Addition of Four New Containers and Usage of RPCs

    Prior to publication of an interim final rule (67 FR 20607, April 
26, 2002), Sec. 925.304(b)(1) of the order's rules and regulations 
outlined container and pack requirements for grapes and required grapes 
be packed in containers which were new and clean and which otherwise 
met the requirements of Secs. 1380.14, 1380.19(n), 1436.37, and 1436.38 
of CA Code of Regulations.
    Prior to publication of an interim final rule, (67 FR 20607, April 
26, 2002) Secs. 925.304(b)(1)(i) through (b)(1)(iii) of the order's 
rules and regulations authorized ten containers for use by grape 
handlers, and also authorized the Committee to approve other types of 
containers for experimental or research purposes.
    Section 925.304(f) states that certain container and pack 
requirements cited in this regulation are specified in the Code of 
Regulations and are incorporated by reference and that a notice of any 
change in these materials will be published in the Federal Register.
    Container requirements prescribed under the California grape order 
were revised in January 1998 (63 FR 655, January 7, 1998). In March 
1998, the 38L grape lug was added to the CA Code of Regulations, but 
had not yet been added to the list of approved containers under the 
order. The 38L grape lug is defined as any container with an inside 
depth of 7\5/8\ inches, an outside width of 13\11/16\ inches, and an 
outside length of 16 inches.
    Since that time, many retailers have asked handlers to pack grapes 
in specific RPCs, corrugated lugs, and master containers that are not 
authorized as containers under Sec. 925.304(b)(1)(i). There are several 
manufacturers of these containers, and each manufacturer's container 
dimensions vary slightly. During previous seasons, handlers applied for 
and obtained Committee approval to use these containers on an 
experimental basis.
    Prior to the Committee's February 12, 2002, meeting, the League had 
petitioned the CDFA to add the 38M grape lug to its list of 
standardized containers in the CA Code of Regulations. Standard 
containers represent container types that are recognized by the 
industry and adopted by the retail trade.
    The range of dimensions allowed for the 38M grape lug encompasses 
the dimensions of many of the containers used experimentally during 
previous seasons, including some RPCs. The CDFA expected to standardize 
the 38M grape lug in the Code of Regulations by May 2002. The 38M grape 
lug was standardized in the Code of Regulations effective May 29, 2002.
    At its February 12, 2002, meeting, the Committee unanimously 
recommended adding most of the containers previously approved as 
experimental containers during the 2001 season, including the 38M grape 
lug, to the list of containers authorized under the order's rules and 
regulations. In reviewing container dimensions, the Committee concluded 
that the 38L, 38M, CP, and CP1 grape lugs' depth, width, and length 
dimensions will encompass the containers previously approved by the 
Committee for experimental purposes. Therefore, the Committee 
unanimously recommended, through a fax vote on February 21, 2002, and 
USDA approved adding the following four containers to the list of ten 
containers authorized in the order's rules and regulations (67 FR 
20607, April 26, 2002):

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          Container                  Depth inside                Width outside              Length outside
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
38L Grape Lug...............  7\5/8\....................  13\11/16\.................  16
38M Grape Lug...............  4\1/4\-5\3/4\.............  15\3/8\-16................  23\1/2\-24
CP Grape Lug................  3\15/16\-4\3/4\...........  15\3/4\-15\9/16\..........  23\1/2\-23\3/4\
CP1 Grape Lug...............  4\3/4\-5..................  19\1/2\-20................  23\3/4\-24
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    These containers may be constructed of several different materials 
(e.g., plastic or fiberboard) but should conform to the range of 
dimensions listed above.
    The Committee discussed alternatives to this change, including 
making no changes to the list of containers authorized under the grape 
order's rules and regulations. The Committee determined that the 38L, 
38M, CP, and

[[Page 54571]]

CP1 grape lugs should be added to the rules and regulations as these 
containers are an integral part of the marketing efforts used by many 
handlers to meet market demands. Some of these containers are RPCs. 
Retailers have requested that fruit be shipped in RPCs, as it can be 
cooled quickly in them, helping to ensure freshness. The use of RPCs 
may result in substantial savings to retailers for storage and disposal 
as retailers return RPCs to a central area for cleaning and 
redistribution. Cost savings may accrue to handlers, as well, since 
they do not have to buy new containers for each shipment.
    Prior to publication of an interim final rule (67 FR 20607, April 
26, 2002), Section 925.304(b)(1) of the rules and regulations required 
such grapes to be packed in new and clean containers. Containers, other 
than RPCs, are intended to be used once and discarded. RPCs are 
typically delivered to the retailer, emptied, and returned to the 
clearinghouse for cleaning and redistribution. As RPCs are reusable, 
the Committee recommended that the rules and regulations be revised to 
allow RPCs to be reused, provided such containers are cleaned. Allowing 
cleaned RPCs to be reused is expected to help handlers better meet 
buyer needs.
    Adding these four containers to the rules and regulations will 
enable handlers to meet their customer requirements this season. This 
action will continue to help the industry in providing consumers with 
high quality grapes, promoting buyer satisfaction, and improving 
producer returns. This action will not impact the grape import 
requirements.

Lot Stamping Requirements

    Prior to publication of an interim final rule (67 FR 20607, April 
26, 2002), Section 925.304(b)(4) of the grape order's rules and 
regulations required containers of grapes to be plainly marked with the 
lot stamp number corresponding to the lot inspection conducted by an 
authorized inspector, and specified that such requirement shall not 
apply to containers in the center tier in a 3 box by 3 box pallet 
configuration.
    During the 2001 season, the Committee approved usage of RPCs for 
experimental purposes. RPCs are made of plastic and retailers send 
these reusable containers to a central clearinghouse after use for 
cleaning and sanitizing. Because RPCs are reusable, these plastic 
containers do not support markings that are permanently affixed to the 
container. All markings must be printed on cards, which slip into tabs 
on the front or sides of the containers. The cards are easily inserted 
and removed, and further contribute to the efficient use of the 
container. Because of their unique portability, the industry and 
inspection service are concerned that the cards on pallets of inspected 
containers could easily be moved to pallets of uninspected containers.
    The industry experimented last season with round adhesive labels on 
RPCs. The lot stamp number was stamped on the round adhesive label and 
the label was placed on the RPCs. However, manufacturers found that it 
was difficult to remove in the wash cycle. Additionally, handlers found 
that workers need to affix the adhesive label to the RPCs, and 
inspectors needed to stamp the lot stamp number on the adhesive labels, 
outside of cold storage facilities. During July 2001, temperatures in 
the production area reached 100 to 118 degrees Fahrenheit. Committee 
members estimated that for each hour that grapes were outside of cold 
storage after harvest, a day's shelf life was lost. Handler members 
calculated that affixing adhesive labels to RPCs cost the grape 
industry approximately $0.10 per grape lug in materials and labor. The 
inspection service and the Committee have presented their concerns to 
the manufacturers of these types of grape lugs. One manufacturer has 
indicated a willingness to address the problem by offering an area on 
the principle display panel where the container markings will adhere to 
the box, which will meet the needs of the industries, the inspection 
service, and the manufacturer. However, the manufacturer believes that 
this change may not be feasible in the near future.
    To address the additional time and cost of affixing adhesive labels 
to containers, the Committee unanimously recommended the stamping of 
lot stamp numbers be on two USDA-approved pallet tags, with each pallet 
tag affixed to opposite sides of each pallet of containers. The pallets 
will be wrapped with clear plastic immediately after inspection 
ensuring the tags cannot be easily removed, although the tags remain 
visible beneath the wrap. The Committee estimated that affixing lot 
stamp numbers to pallet tags would reduce handler costs by $950,000, 
make handler operations more efficient, and will provide consumers with 
high quality grapes. Additionally, each lot will be traceable through 
the lot stamp, since the lot stamp number on the pallet tag corresponds 
to the lot stamp number annotated on the inspection certificate.
    The Committee discussed alternatives to this change, including 
making no changes to the lot stamp-numbering requirement. The Committee 
believes that relaxing the lot stamp numbering requirement under the 
rules and regulations will result in better quality grapes being 
shipped to consumers, a reduction in handler costs, and improved 
producer returns. Thus, the Committee recommended and USDA approved 
revising Sec. 925.304(b)(4) to require the number be stamped on two 
USDA-approved pallet tags for RPCs, and that the pallet tags be placed 
on opposite sides of each pallet (67 FR 20607, April 26, 2002). This 
action will not affect imports.

Minimum Net Weight Requirements

    Section 925.304(b)(2) of the order's rules and regulations 
specifies that the minimum net weight of grapes in any container, 
except for containers containing grapes packed in sawdust, cork, 
excelsior or similar packing material or packed in bags or wrapped in 
plastic or paper. It specifies that approved experimental containers 
shall be 20 pounds based on the average net weight of grapes in a 
representative sample of containers.
    Prior to publication of an interim final rule (67 FR 20607, April 
26, 2002), Sec. 925.340(b)(2) further specified that containers of 
grapes packed in bags or wrapped in plastic or paper prior to being 
placed in these containers shall meet a minimum net weight requirement 
of 18 pounds.
    Several years ago, the Commission funded a 3-year research project 
designed to determine if current practices were getting the product to 
the retailer and ultimately the consumer in the best possible 
condition. A study of grape packaging was conducted by Dr. Harry Shorey 
of the University of California at Davis and the University of 
California at Kearney Agricultural Center at Parlier. The study 
concluded that the California grape industry should modify container 
dimensions so that containers will fit better on the standard 48 x 40-
inch pallets, and that the container minimum net weights should be 
reduced to 18 and 20 pounds. Based on these conclusions, the Committee 
recommended and USDA approved reducing the minimum net weight 
requirements in March 1996 to enhance the deliverability of grapes (61 
FR 11129, March 19, 1996).
    Since that time, grape handlers have packed grapes in 18 and 20-
pound containers and marked such containers as 18 and 20 pounds. 
Approximately 95 percent of all grapes shipped during the 2001 season 
were shipped in 18-pound containers. Grapes normally lose moisture 
during shipment. To address

[[Page 54572]]

mislabeling concerns, it is common practice in the industry to pack 
containers of grapes slightly over the minimum net weight required to 
allow for shrink, and to mark these containers as 18 or 20 pounds, 
respectively. Last season, some containers were packed with slightly 
more than 21 pounds and marked as 21 pounds. Marking containers other 
than 18 or 20 pounds caused confusion in the marketplace and impacted 
handler assessments and statistical reporting. Thus, the Committee 
unanimously recommended at its February 12, 2002, meeting, that 
containers packed with slightly more than 18 or 20 pounds shall be 
marked as 18 or 20 pounds, as appropriate. To address this issue, 
Sec. 925.304(b)(2) was revised to provide that containers other than 
master containers containing individual consumer packages to be marked 
with the minimum net weight of 18 or 20 pounds, as appropriate (67 FR 
20607, April 26, 2002).
    The Committee discussed alternatives to this change. The Committee 
believes that allowing markings other than 18 or 20-pound markings 
could cause confusion in the marketplace and may not address the 
mislabeling concerns as grapes lose moisture and shrink during 
shipment. Thus, the Committee unanimously recommended at its February 
12, 2002, meeting, that the container marking requirements in 
Sec. 925.304(b)(2) be revised as provided in the interim final rule (67 
FR 20607, April 26, 2002).
    Recently, retailers have requested master containers containing 
individual consumer packages that weigh a total of 24 pounds, 16 
pounds, or 10 pounds. An individual consumer package is a package that 
is customarily produced and distributed for sale to individuals for 
their personal consumption.
    The Committee discussed alternatives to this change, including 
making no change to the minimum net weight requirement for master 
containers containing individual consumer packages, but believes that 
providing this exception for mater containers is in the best interest 
of handlers. The Committee estimated that approximately 2 percent of 
the crop is shipped in master containers containing individual consumer 
packages. The 2002 crop was estimated to be 9.5 million lugs. Allowing 
master containers containing individual consumer packages will enable 
handlers to market an additional 190,000 lugs of grapes. Therefore, the 
Committee unanimously recommended and USDA approved revising 
Sec. 925.304(b)(2) to exempt master containers containing individual 
consumer packages from the minimum net weight requirements of 18 or 20 
pounds. (67 FR 20607, April 26, 2002).
    Finally, the language in Sec. 925.304(b)(2) was changed for clarity 
to specifically provide that containers containing grapes packed in 
bags or wrapped in plastic or paper prior to being placed in these 
containers must meet a minimum net weight requirement of 18 pounds 
based on an average net weight of grapes in a representative sample of 
containers.
    These revisions will enable handlers to compete more effectively in 
the marketplace and to better meet the needs of buyers. Imported grapes 
will not be affected by this action.

Removal of Obsolete Language

    This rule continues in effect the minor changes to remove obsolete 
language in paragraphs (a) and (b)(iii) of Sec. 925.304. These 
paragraphs included references to the period June 1, 1998, through 
August 15, 1998, which marked the trial usage of the ``DGAC Consumer 
No. 1 Institutional'' (DGAC) grade.
    This rule will not impose any additional reporting or recordkeeping 
requirements on either small or large grape handlers. As with all 
Federal marketing order programs, reports and forms are periodically 
reviewed to reduce information requirements and duplication by industry 
and public sector agencies.
    In addition, as noted in the initial regulatory flexibility 
analysis, USDA has not identified any relevant Federal rules that 
duplicate, overlap or conflict with this rule.
    Further, the Committee's meeting was widely publicized throughout 
the grape industry and all interested persons were invited to attend 
the meeting and participate in Committee deliberations. Like all 
Committee meetings, the February 12, 2002, meeting was a public meeting 
and all entities, both large and small, were able to express their 
views on this issue. A fax vote was conducted to clarify the 
recommendation regarding the number and dimensions of containers to be 
added to the list currently authorized under the grape order. All 
handlers were provided information on the number and dimensions of 
containers to be added to the order.
    An interim final rule concerning this action was published in the 
Federal Register on April 26, 2002. Copies of the rule were mailed by 
the Committee's staff to all Committee members and grape handlers. In 
addition, the rule was made available through the Internet by the 
Office of the Federal Register and USDA. That rule provided for a 60-
day comment period which ended June 25, 2002. No comments were 
received.
    A small business guide on complying with fruit, vegetable, and 
specialty crop marketing agreements and orders may be viewed at: http://www.ams.usda.gov/fv/moab.html. Any questions about the compliance 
guide should be sent to Jay Guerber at the previously mentioned address 
in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section.
    After consideration of all relevant material presented, including 
the Committee's recommendation, and other information, it is found that 
finalizing the interim final rule, without change, as published in the 
Federal Register (67 FR 20607, April 26, 2002) will tend to effectuate 
the declared policy of the Act.

List of Subjects in 7 CFR Part 925

    Grapes, Marketing agreements and orders, Reporting and 
recordkeeping requirements.

PART 925--GRAPES GROWN IN A DESIGNATED AREA OF SOUTHEASTERN 
CALIFORNIA

    Accordingly, the interim final rule amending 7 CFR part 925 which 
was published at 67 FR 20607 on April 26, 2002, is adopted as a final 
rule without change.

    Dated: August 19, 2002.
Kenneth C. Clayton,
Acting Administrator, Agricultural Marketing Service.
[FR Doc. 02-21536 Filed 8-22-02; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 3410-02-P