Current Status

In October 2007, USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service published an advanced notice of proposed rulemaking (ANPR) soliciting public comment on the need and level of support for a nationwide good agricultural and handling practices program utilizing a marketing order (mandatory) or a marketing agreement (voluntary).  The ANPR resulted in the submission and consideration of more than 3,500 public comments.  AMS determined that there may be sufficient support for such a measure if certain issues, such as the cost and impact on small entities, the need for science-based guidelines and other factors, were addressed in the development and implementation of any program.

In response to this high level of interest expressed by large segments of the leafy greens industry, the organizations shown below have held extensive discussions over the past year with leafy greens growers, handlers, other trade associations, and many individual stakeholders to develop concepts that could serve as the basis for a successful marketing agreement.  As an outcome of that effort, we submitted a proposal to USDA on June 8, 2009 to launch an open and transparent process that engages the industry at large in the development and implementation of a national agreement through publication of a federal register notice, solicitation of comments and public hearings. 

Our proposal to USDA outlines the extensive justification for a leafy greens marketing agreement, as well as recommended parameters for consideration.  However, it must be made clear that this is DRAFT only, and any actual agreement would be now developed by all stakeholders working together under the auspices of USDA.  We have published our draft proposal here to build industry awareness and solicit feedback, comment and concerns.  More importantly, USDA will be the responsible party in publishing a formal notice and soliciting industry feedback on a specific marketing agreement.

This agreement will ultimately allow participating handlers of leafy greens to act collectively to enhance the quality, safety and marketability of their products.

This process will require a comprehensive evaluation of leafy green production, handling and processing to make sure we are taking all appropriate steps to assure safety.  It is also a process requiring extensive collaboration across the industry, with government representatives and with academic experts.

As proponents of the agreement, we urge you to get involved, ask questions, and make your views known.  While all stakeholders will have direct input into USDA in this process, we also welcome all who wish to participate in an open discussion of the agreement to contact us any time with questions, comments, suggestions, or opinions.  We believe your involvement is critical to the success of this effort.