Nectarines and Peaches Grown in California; Revision of Handling Requirements for Fresh Nectarines and Peaches

SUMMARY: This rule revises the handling requirements for California

nectarines and peaches by modifying the size, maturity, container, and

pack requirements for fresh shipments of these fruits, beginning with

1995 season shipments. This rule enables handlers to continue shipping

fresh nectarines and peaches meeting consumer needs in the interest of

producers, handlers, and consumers of these fruits.

DATES: Effective April 1, 1995. Comments which are received by April

20, 1995 will be considered prior to issuance of any final rule.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are invited to submit written comments

concerning this rule. Comments must be sent in triplicate to the Docket

Clerk, Fruit and Vegetable Division, AMS, USDA, P.O. Box 96456, Room

2523-S, Washington, DC 20090-6456; or by facsimile at 202-720-5698. All

comments should reference the docket number and the date and page

number of this issue of the Federal Register and will be made available

for public inspection at the office of the Docket Clerk during regular

business hours.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kenneth Johnson, Marketing Specialist,

Marketing Order Administration Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Division,

AMS, USDA, P.O. Box 96456, Room 2523-S, Washington, DC 20090-6456;

telephone: (202) 720-2861; or Terry Vawter, California Marketing Field

Office, Marketing Order Administration Branch, Fruit and Vegetable

Division, AMS, USDA, 2202 Monterey Street, Suite 102B, Fresno,

California, 93721; telephone: (209) 487-5901.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This rule is issued under Marketing

Agreement and Marketing Order Nos. 916 and 917 [7 CFR Parts 916 and

917] regulating the handling of nectarines and peaches grown in

California, hereinafter referred to as the orders. The orders are

effective under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937, as

amended [7 U.S.C. 601-674], hereinafter referred to as the Act.

The Department of Agriculture (Department) is issuing this rule in

conformance with Executive Order 12866.

This rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12778, 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 the Secretary 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 the Secretary 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 in equity to review the

Secretary's ruling on the petition, provided a bill in equity is filed

not later than 20 days after the date of the entry of the ruling.

Pursuant to requirements set forth in the Regulatory Flexibility

Act (RFA), the Administrator of the Agricultural Marketing Service

(AMS) has considered the economic impact of this action on small

entities. 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 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 about 300 California nectarine and peach handlers subject

to regulation under the orders covering nectarines and peaches grown in

California, and about 1,800 producers of these fruits in California.

Small agricultural service firms have been defined by the Small

Business Administration [13 CFR 121.601] as those having annual

receipts of less than $500,000, and small agricultural producers are

defined as those whose annual receipts are less than $5,000,000. A

majority of these handlers and producers may be classified as small

entities.

The Nectarine Administrative Committee (NAC) and the Peach

Commodity Committee (PCC) met December 7, 1994, and recommended that

the handling requirements for California nectarines and peaches be

revised, respectively. These committees meet prior to and during each

season to review the rules and regulations effective on a continuous

basis for California nectarines and peaches under the orders. Committee

meetings are open to the public, and interested persons may express

their views at these meetings. The Department reviews committee

recommendations and information, as well as information from other

sources, and determines whether modification, suspension, or

termination of the rules and regulations would tend to effectuate the

declared policy of the Act.

Container and Pack Requirements (Nectarines)

Section 916.350 specifies container and pack requirements for fresh

nectarine shipments. Paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 916.350 specifies the

tray-pack size designations which must be marked on loose-filled or

tight-filled containers, depending on the size of the fruit. The size

designations specify the maximum number of nectarines in a 16-pound

sample for each tray-pack size designation. This rule revises paragraph

[[Page 14892]] (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 916.350 by modifying two size

designations for the weight-count standards in Column B of TABLE I for

early-season and mid-season nectarine varieties. This table was added

prior to the 1994 season. Research conducted by the NAC indicated that

early-season and mid-season fruit weigh less than late-season fruit and

therefore different weight-count standards were established for late-

season fruit. Results from further research during the 1994 season

suggest that some minor modifications of TABLE I are necessary to

provide for more accurate weight-count standards for early-season and

mid-season nectarines.

The NAC recommended these revised weight-count standards for

nectarines after a comprehensive review of the relationships between

the tray-pack containers and loose-filled or tight-filled containers

for early-season and mid-season nectarine varieties. Specifically, the

NAC's recommendation provides that the maximum number of nectarines of

size 80 in a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-season fruit is

more appropriately 75 rather than 76. Also, the maximum number of

nectarines of size 64 in a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-

season fruit is more appropriately 55 rather than 56.

Pack regulations provide for uniform packing practices. In

particular, weight-count standards provide for comparability between

fruit packed in loose-filled or tight-filled containers and fruit

packed in tray-pack containers.

According to the NAC, packers occasionally moved fruit from tray-

pack containers to loose-filled or tight-filled containers. This

activity has led to an awareness, in regard to early-season and mid-

season varieties, that fruit which was of proper size when tray-packed

exceeded the maximum number of nectarines for the 16-pound sample for

corresponding loose-filled or tight-filled containers. In some

instances, these samples would need additional pieces of fruit to meet

the 16-pound weight requirement, thus causing the pack to be marked

smaller than its equivalent tray-pack size. When packs are marked with

a smaller size, the container is generally sold for a lower price.

Revised and refined weight-count standards for early-season and mid-

season varieties should provide for more accurate marking of size when

packed in loose-filled or tight-filled containers compared to

equivalent sizes that are tray packed. These regulations provide for

uniformly packed containers of nectarines.

Currently, under the marketing order the minimum maturity

requirement for nectarines grown in California is U.S. Mature, which

means that the nectarine has reached the stage of growth which will

insure a proper completion of the ripening process. A higher maturity

standard is defined as California ``Well Matured,'' which is a

condition distinctly more advanced than mature.

This rule adds a definition of ``tree ripe'' to paragraph (b) of

section 916.350. According to the NAC, ``tree ripe'' is an optional

marking without regard to maturity that is stamped on containers of

nectarines. Currently there is no definition of ``tree ripe''. As a

result of inquiries from the industry and the trade, the NAC

recommended defining ``tree ripe'' so that it has a standard meaning.

In the past, there has been no definition of ``tree ripe'' although

fruit boxes marked ``tree ripe'' had to meet the minimum marketing

order maturity standard of U.S. Mature. Handlers have been able to

stamp any maturity level, including U.S. Mature, as ``tree ripe'' due

to a lack of any definition for this nomenclature. The NAC stated that

in some instances, handlers have stamped ``tree ripe'' on every box of

fruit they packed all season. There is growing concern within the

industry that fruit packed at the lower level of acceptable maturity do

not represent what is most commonly perceived as tree ripe. By

requiring that fruit must be at a minimum California Well Matured

maturity standard in order to be marked ``tree ripe'' will help ensure

that buyer expectations are met.

Maturity Requirements (Nectarines)

Section 916.356 specifies maturity requirements for fresh

nectarines in paragraph (a)(1)(i), including TABLE I, for fruit being

inspected and certified as meeting the maturity requirements for ``well

matured'' fruit. Such maturity requirements are based on maturity

measurements which are generally recognized in terms of maturity guides

(e.g., color chips) specified in paragraph (a)(1)(i) and TABLE I of

Sec. 916.356 for nectarines. This rule revises TABLE I of paragraph

(a)(1)(i) of Sec. 916.356 for nectarines to change the maturity guide

for one nectarine variety.

Specifically, a change in color standard was recommended for Alshir

Red from L to J. In a corresponding action, the tolerance for the

Alshir Red variety that states ``except not less than an aggregate area

of 95% of fruit surface shall meet the color standard established for

the variety'' is deleted.

These changes for this nectarine variety are based on a continuing

review of its individual maturity characteristics, and the

identification of the appropriate color chip corresponding to the

``well matured'' level of maturity for such variety.

Size Requirements (Nectarines)

Section 916.356 specifies size requirements for fresh nectarines in

paragraphs (a)(2) through (a)(9). This rule revises Sec. 916.356 to

establish variety-specific size requirements for fourteen nectarine

varieties that were produced in commercially significant quantities of

more than 10,000 packages for the first time during the 1994 season.

Size regulations are put in place to improve fruit quality by

allowing fruit to stay on the tree for a greater length of time which

not only improves maturity and therefore the quality of the product but

also size and increases the number of packed boxes of nectarines per

acre. This provides greater consumer satisfaction, more repeat

purchases and therefore increases returns to growers. Varieties

recommended for specific size regulation have been reviewed and

recommendations are based on the characteristics of the variety to

attain minimum size.

Paragraph (a)(4) is revised to include the Arctic Glo, May Jim, and

Red Glo varieties; and paragraph (a)(6) of Sec. 916.356 is revised to

include the Arctic Queen, How Red, La Pinta, Red Fred, Royal Glo, Royal

Red, Ruby Diamond, Spring Bright, Summer Blush, 424-195, and Nectarine

23 varieties.

This rule also revises Sec. 916.356 to remove six nectarine

varieties from the variety-specific size requirements specified in the

section because less than 5,000 packages of each of these varieties

were produced during the 1994 season. Paragraph (a)(2) of that section

is revised to remove the Aurelio Grand and Maybelle nectarine

varieties; paragraph (a)(4) is revised to remove the Grand Stan

variety; and paragraph (a)(6) is revised to remove the Autumn Grand, Le

Grand, and Super Red nectarine varieties. Nectarine varieties removed

from the nectarine variety-specific list become subject to the non-

listed variety size requirements specified in paragraphs (a)(7),

(a)(8), and (a)(9) of Sec. 916.356.

The NAC recommended these changes in the minimum size requirements

based on a continuing review of the sizing and maturity relationships

for these nectarine varieties, and consumer acceptance levels for

various sizes of fruit. This rule is designed to establish minimum size

requirements for fresh nectarines consistent with expected crop and

market conditions. [[Page 14893]]

Container and Pack Requirements (Peaches)

Section 917.442 currently specifies container and pack requirements

for fresh peach shipments. Paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 917.442

specifies the tray-pack size designations which must be marked on

loose-filled or tight-filled containers, depending on the size of the

fruit. The size designations specify the maximum number of peaches in a

16-pound sample for each tray pack size designation. This rule revises

paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 917.442 by modifying three size

designations for the weight-count standards in Column B of TABLE I for

early-season and mid-season peach varieties. Research conducted by the

PCC indicated that early-season and mid-season fruit weighs less than

late-season fruit and the weight-count standards were, therefore,

modified based on that consideration. Results from the 1994 season

suggest that some minor modifications of TABLE I are necessary to

further correct the weight-count differences between early-season and

mid-season peaches, and late-season peaches.

The PCC recommended the revised container marking requirement

changes for peaches after a comprehensive review of the appropriate

size pack-count relationships between the tray-pack containers and

loose-filled or tight-filled containers for early-season and mid-season

peach varieties prior to the 1995 season. Specifically, the PCC's

recommendation provides that the maximum number of peaches of size 84

in a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-season fruit is more

appropriately 83 rather than 85. Also, the maximum number of peaches of

size 70 in a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-season fruit is

more appropriately 64 rather than 66. The maximum number of peaches of

size 60 in a 16-pound sample of early-season to mid-season fruit is

more appropriately 50 rather than 47.

In making this revision, a conforming change is required in

Sec. 917.459(a)(4)(iii) which is referenced in TABLE I. Section

917.459(a)(4)(iii) currently provides a maximum number of 85 peaches in

a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-season fruit. This revision

will modify the maximum number of peaches in a 16-pound sample of

early-season and mid-season fruit to 83 pieces of fruit from the

current 85 pieces of fruit.

Pack regulations provide for uniform packing practices. In

particular, weight-count standards provide for equality between packs

of loose-filled or tight-filled sizes to fruit sizes packed in tray-

pack styles. Varieties harvested early in the season and packed in

loose-filled or tight-filled pack styles have had more difficulty being

equal in size to tray-pack style of packing.

According to the PCC, packers occasionally moved fruit from tray-

pack styles of pack to loose-filled or tight-filled pack styles. This

activity has led to an awareness, especially in regard to early-season

varieties, that fruit which was of proper size when tray-packed

exceeded the maximum number of nectarines for the 16-pound sample for

corresponding loose- or tight-filled pack size. In some instances,

these samples would need as many as 10 additional pieces of fruit to

meet the 16-pound weight requirement, thus causing the pack to be

``marked'' smaller than its equivalent tray-pack size. When packs are

``marked'' smaller this causes the container to be sold for a lower

price. During the 1994 season new weight-count assignments for early

varieties were in place. Research continued with the purpose of

possible refinement of those weight-count assignments.

Revised and refined weight-count standards for early varieties

should provide for more accurate marking size when packed in loose-

filled or tight-filled pack styles compared to equivalent sizes that

are tray packed. These regulations provide for uniformly packed

containers of peaches.

Currently, under the marketing order the minimum maturity

requirement for peaches grown in California is U.S. Mature, which means

that the peach has reached the stage of growth which will insure a

proper completion of the ripening process. A higher maturity standard

is defined as California ``Well Matured,'' which is a condition

distinctly more advanced than mature.

This rule adds a definition of tree ripe to section 917.442

paragraph (b). According to the PCC, tree ripe is an optional marking

without regard to maturity that is stamped on containers of peaches.

Currently there is no definition of tree ripe. As a result of inquiries

from the industry and the trade, the PCC wants to define tree ripe so

that its interpretation is consistent with other descriptive markings.

In the past there has been no definition of tree ripe although fruit

boxes marked ``tree ripe'' had to meet minimum marketing order

standards. Handlers have been able to stamp any maturity level,

including U.S. Mature, as tree ripe due to a lack of any definition for

this nomenclature. The PCC states that in some instances in the past,

it is known that some handlers have stamped tree ripe on every box of

fruit they packed all season. There is growing concern among the

industry that fruit packed at the lowest levels of maturity do not

represent what is most commonly perceived as tree ripe. By requiring

fruit be at a minimum California ``Well Matured'' maturity standard in

order to be marked tree ripe will help ensure that buyer expectations

are met.

Maturity Requirements (Peaches)

Section 917.459 specifies maturity requirements for fresh peaches

in paragraph (a)(1)(i), including TABLE I, for fruit being inspected

and certified as meeting the maturity requirements for ``well matured''

fruit. Such maturity requirements are based on maturity measurements

which are generally recognized in terms of maturity guides (e.g., color

chips) specified in paragraph (a)(1)(i) and TABLE I of Sec. 917.459 for

peaches. This rule revises TABLE I of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of

Sec. 917.459 for peaches to change the maturity guide for the David

Sun, King's Red, Crimson Lady and Johnny's White peach varieties.

The SPI recommended these changes for these peach varieties based

on a continuing review of their individual maturity characteristics,

and the identification of the appropriate color chip corresponding to

the ``well matured'' level of maturity for such varieties.

Size Requirements (Peaches)

Section 917.459 specifies size requirements for fresh peaches in

paragraphs (a)(2) through (a)(6), and paragraphs (b) and (c). This rule

revises Sec. 917.459 to establish variety-specific size requirements

for eight peach varieties that were produced in commercially

significant quantities of more than 10,000 packages for the first time

during the 1994 season.

Size regulations are put in place to improve fruit quality by

allowing fruit to stay on the tree for a greater length of time which

not only improves maturity and therefore the quality of the product but

also size and increases the number of packed boxes of peaches per acre.

This provides greater consumer satisfaction, more repeat purchases and

therefore increases returns to growers. Varieties recommended for

specific size regulation have been reviewed and recommendations are

based on the characteristics of the variety to attain minimum size.

In Sec. 917.459 paragraph (a)(5) is revised to include the Snow

Brite and Sugar May peach varieties; and paragraph (a)(6) is revised to

include the August Delight, Autumn Rose, Red Boy, Royal Lady, September

Snow, and Summer Sweet peach varieties.

[[Page 14894]]

This rule also revises Sec. 917.459 to remove two peach varieties

from the variety-specific size requirements specified in that section,

because less than 5,000 packages of each of these varieties were

produced during the 1994 season. In Sec. 917.459 paragraph (a)(4) of

Sec. 917.459 is revised to remove the Morning Sun peach variety; and

paragraph (a)(6) is revised to remove the Golden Lady peach variety.

Peach varieties removed from the variety-specific list become subject

to the non-listed variety size requirements specified in paragraphs (b)

and (c) of Sec. 917.459.

The removal of the Morning Sun variety from paragraph (a)(4)

results in there being no varieties regulated within size 84 for the

1995 season. Since the variety-specific list is subject to change from

one season to another, the Department wishes to reserve paragraph

number Sec. 916.459(a)(4) for future regulation of peaches at size 84.

The PCC recommended these changes in the minimum size requirements

based on a continuing review of the sizing and maturity relationships

for these peach varieties, and the consumer acceptance levels for

various sizes of fruit. This rule is designed to establish minimum size

requirements for fresh peaches consistent with expected crop and market

conditions.

This rule reflects the committees' and the Department's appraisal

of the need to revise the handling requirements for California

nectarines and peaches, as specified. The Department's determination is

that this rule will have a beneficial impact on producers, handlers,

and consumers of California nectarines and peaches.

This rule establishes handling requirements for fresh California

nectarines and peaches consistent with expected crop and market

conditions, and will help ensure that all shipments of these fruits

made each season will meet acceptable handling requirements established

under each of these orders. This rule will also help the California

nectarine and peach industries provide fruit desired by consumers. This

rule is designed to establish and maintain orderly marketing conditions

for these fruits in the interest of producers, handlers, and consumers.

Based on the above, the Administrator of the AMS has determined

that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a

substantial number of small entities.

After consideration of all relevant matters presented, the

information and recommendations submitted by the committees, and other

information, it is found that the rule, as hereinafter set forth, will

tend to effectuate the declared policy of the Act.

Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553, it is also found and determined, upon

good cause, that it is impracticable, unnecessary and contrary to the

public interest to give preliminary notice prior to putting this rule

into effect, and that good cause exists for not postponing the

effective date of this rule until 30 days after publication in the

Federal Register because: (1) California nectarine and peach growers

and handlers should be apprised of this rule as soon as possible, since

early shipments of these fruits are expected to begin about April 1;

(2) this rule relaxes grade requirements for peaches and size

requirements for several nectarine and peach varieties; (3) California

nectarine and peach handlers are aware of these revised requirements

recommended by the committees at public meetings, and they will need no

additional time to comply with such requirements; and (4) the rule

provides a 30-day comment period, and any written comments received

will be considered prior to any finalization of this interim final

rule.

List of Subjects

7 CFR Part 916

Marketing agreements, Nectarines, Reporting and recordkeeping

requirements.

7 CFR Part 917

Marketing agreements, Peaches, Pears, Reporting and recordkeeping

requirements.

For the reasons set forth in the preamble, 7 CFR Parts 916 and 917

are amended as follows:

PART 916--NECTARINES GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

1. The authority citation for 7 CFR Parts 916 and 917 continues to

read as follows:

Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.

2. Section 916.350 is amended by revising TABLE I of paragraph

(a)(4)(iv) and paragraph (b) to read as follows:

Sec. 916.350 California Nectarine Container and Pack Regulation.

(a) * * *

(4) * * *

(iv) * * *

Table I--Weight-Count Standards for Nectarines Packed in Loose or Tight-

Filled Containers

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Column A1 Column B2

------------------------------------------------------------------------

108........................................................ 100

96......................................................... 90

88......................................................... 83

84......................................................... 78

80......................................................... 75

72......................................................... 67

70......................................................... 60

64......................................................... 55

60......................................................... 49

56......................................................... 46

54......................................................... 40

50......................................................... 38

48......................................................... 35

42......................................................... 31

40......................................................... 30

36......................................................... 25

34......................................................... 23

32......................................................... 22

30......................................................... 19

------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\Tray Pack Size Designation.

\2\Maximum Number of Nectarines in a 16-pound Sample Applicable to

Varieties Specified in Paragraphs (a)(2)(ii), (a)(3)(ii), (a)(4)(ii),

(a)(5)(ii), (a)(7)(ii), and (a)(8)(ii) of Sec. 916.356.

* * * * *

(b) As used in this section, standard pack and fairly uniform in

size shall have the same meanings as set forth in U.S. Standards for

Grades of Nectarines (Secs. 51.3145 to 51.3160) and all other terms

shall have the same meaning as when used in the amended marketing

agreement and order. No. 12B standard fruit box measures 2\3/8\ to 7\1/

8\ x 11\1/2\ x 16\1/8\ inches, No. 22D standard lug box measures

2\7/8\ to 7\1/8\ x 13\1/2\ x 16\1/8\ inches, No.22E standard lug

box measures 8\3/4\ x 13\1/2\ x 16\1/8\ inches, No. 22G standard

lug box measures 7\3/8\ to 7\1/2\ x 13\1/4\ x 15\7/8\ inches. All

dimensions are given in depth (inside dimension) by width by length

(outside dimension). Individual consumer packages means packages

holding 15 pounds or less net weight of nectarines. ``Tree ripe'' means

fruit shipped and marked as tree ripe must meet minimum California Well

Matured standards.

3. Section 916.356 is amended by revising paragraphs (a)

introductory text, (a)(1), (a)(1)(i), Table I, (a)(2) introductory

text, (a)(4) introductory text, and (a)(6) introductory text to read as

follows:

Sec. 916.356 California Nectarine Grade and Size Regulation.

(a) During the period beginning April 1 and ending October 31, no

handler shall ship:

(1) Any lot or package or container of any variety of nectarines

unless such nectarines meet the requirements of U.S. No. 1 grade:

Provided, That nectarines 2 inches in diameter or smaller, shall not

[[Page 14895]] have fairly light colored, fairly smooth scars which

exceed an aggregate area of a circle \3/8\ inch in diameter, and

nectarines larger than 2 inches in diameter shall not have fairly light

colored, fairly smooth scars which exceed an aggregate area of a circle

\1/2\ inch in diameter: Provided further, That an additional tolerance

of 25 percent shall be permitted for fruit that is not well formed but

not badly misshapen. The Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service

shall make final determinations on maturity through the use of color

guides or such other tests as determined appropriate by the inspection

agency.

(i) The Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service will use the

maturity guides listed in TABLE I in making maturity determinations for

the specified varieties when inspecting to the ``well matured'' level

of maturity. For these varieties, not less than 90 percent of any lot

shall meet the color guide established for the variety, and an

aggregate area of not less than 90 percent of the fruit surface shall

meet the color guide established for the variety, except that for the

Fairlane, Tom Grand, and 61-61 varieties of nectarines, not less than

an aggregate area of 80 percent of the fruit surface shall meet the

color guide established for the variety. For varieties not listed, the

Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service will use such tests as it

deems proper. A variance for any variety from the application of the

maturity guides specified in TABLE I may be granted during the season

to reflect changes in crop, weather, or other conditions that would

make the specified guides an inappropriate measure of ``well matured.''

Table I

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Column B

Column A variety maturity

guide

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Alshir Red............................................... J

Ama Lyn.................................................. G

Apache................................................... G

April Glo................................................ H

Armking.................................................. B

August Glo............................................... L

August Red............................................... J

Aurelio Grand............................................ F

Autumn Delight........................................... M

Autumn Grand............................................. L

Bob Grand................................................ L

Clinton-Strawberry....................................... H

Del Rio Rey.............................................. G

Desert Dawn.............................................. G

Early Diamond............................................ J

Early May................................................ F

Early May Grand.......................................... H

Early Star............................................... G

Early Sungrand........................................... H

Fairlane................................................. M

Fantasia................................................. J

Firebrite................................................ H

Flamekist................................................ L

Flaming Red.............................................. K

Flavor Grand............................................. G

Flavortop................................................ J

Flavortop I.............................................. K

Gee Red.................................................. H

Gold King................................................ H

Granderli................................................ J

Grand Stan............................................... F

Hi-Red................................................... J

Independence............................................. H

July Red................................................. L

June Glo................................................. H

June Grand............................................... G

Kent Grand............................................... L

Kism Grand............................................... J

Larry's Grand............................................ M

Late Le Grand............................................ L

Late Tina Red............................................ I

Le Grand................................................. H

Maybelle................................................. F

May Diamond.............................................. I

Mayfair.................................................. C

May Fire................................................. H

May Glo.................................................. H

May Grand................................................ H

May Kist................................................. H

Mayred................................................... B

Mid Glo.................................................. L

Mike Grand............................................... H

Moon Grand............................................... M

Niagara Grand............................................ H

Pacific Star............................................. G

P-R Red.................................................. L

Red Diamond.............................................. M

Red Delight.............................................. I

Red Free................................................. L

Red Glen................................................. J

Red Grand................................................ H

Red Jim.................................................. L

Red June................................................. G

Red Lion................................................. J

Red May.................................................. J

Regal Grand.............................................. L

Rio Red.................................................. L

Royal Delight............................................ F

Royal Giant.............................................. I

Ruby Grand............................................... J

Ruby Sun................................................. J

Scarlet Red.............................................. K

September Grand.......................................... L

September Red............................................ L

Sheri Red................................................ J

Sierra Star/181-119...................................... G

Son Red.................................................. L

Sparkling June........................................... M

Sparkling May............................................ J

Sparkling Red............................................ L

Spring Diamond........................................... M

Spring Grand............................................. G

Spring Red............................................... H

Springtop................................................ B

Stan's Grand............................................. C

Star Bright.............................................. G

Star Brite............................................... J

Star Grand............................................... H

Summer Beaut............................................. H

Summer Blush............................................. J

Summer Bright............................................ J

Summer Diamond........................................... M

Summer Fire.............................................. L

Summer Grand............................................. L

Summer Lion.............................................. M

Summer Red............................................... L

Summer Star.............................................. G

Sunburst................................................. J

Sun Diamond.............................................. I

Sunfre................................................... F

Sun Grand................................................ G

Super Star............................................... G

Tasty Free............................................... J

Tasty Gold............................................... H

Tom Grand................................................ L

Zee Glo.................................................. J

61-61.................................................... J

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Note: Consult with the Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service

Supervisor for the maturity guides applicable to the varieties not

listed above.

* * * * *

(2) Any package or container of May Glo variety nectarines through

May 5 of each year; or April Glo, Mayfire, or Royal Delight variety

nectarines, unless:

* * * * *

(4) Any package or container of Early May, Mike Grand, June Brite,

June Glo, May Grand, May Diamond, May Lion, Pacific Star, Red Delight,

Rose Diamond, Sparkling May, Star Brite, Sunfire, or Zee Grand variety

nectarines unless:

* * * * *

(6) Any package or container of Alshir Red, Alta Red, Arctic Queen,

Arctic Rose, August Glo, August Red, Autumn Delight, Big Jim, Bob

Grand, Del Rio Rey, Early Red Jim, Early Sungrand, Fairlane, Fantasia,

Firebrite, Flamekist, Flaming Red, Flavor Grand, Flavortop, Flavortop

I, Grand Diamond, How Red, Independence, July Red, King Jim, Kay

Diamond, Kism Grand, La Pinta, Late Le Grand, Late Red Jim, Mid Glo,

Moon Grand, Niagara Grand, Prima Diamond, P-R Red, Red Diamond, Red

Fred, Red Free, Red Glen, Red Jim, Red Lion, Rio Red, Royal Giant,

Royal Glo, Royal Red, Ruby Diamond, Ruby Grand, Scarlet Red, September

Grand, September Red, Son Red, Sparkling June, Sparkling Red, Spring

Bright, Spring Diamond, Spring Red, Summer Beaut, Summer Blush, Summer

Bright, Summer Diamond, Summer Fire, Summer Grand, Summer Lion, Summer

Red, Summer Star, Sunburst, Sun Diamond, Sun Grand, Super Star, Tasty

Gold, Tom Grand, Zee Glo, 181-119, 80P-1135, 424-195, or Nectarine 23

variety nectarines unless:

* * * * *

[[Page 14896]]

PART 917--FRESH PEARS AND PEACHES GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

4. Section 917.442 is amended by revising TABLE I of paragraph

(a)(4)(iv) and paragraph (b) to read as follows:

Sec. 917.442 California Peach Container and Pack Regulation.

(a) * * *

(4) * * *

(iv) * * *

Table I--Weight-Count Standards for Peaches Packed in Loose or Tight-

Filled Containers

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Column A\1\ Column B\2\

------------------------------------------------------------------------

96......................................................... 96

88......................................................... 92

84......................................................... 83

80......................................................... 76

72......................................................... 68

70......................................................... 64

64......................................................... 56

60......................................................... 50

56......................................................... 46

54......................................................... 43

50......................................................... 39

48......................................................... 35

42......................................................... 31

40......................................................... 30

36......................................................... 27

34......................................................... 25

32......................................................... 23

30......................................................... 21

------------------------------------------------------------------------

\1\Tray Pack Size Designation.

\2\Maximum Number of Peaches in a 16-pound Sample Applicable to

Varieties Specified in Paragraphs (a)(2)(ii), (a)(3)(ii), (a)(4)(iii),

(a)(5)(ii), and (b)(3) of Sec. 917.459.

* * * * *

(b) As used in this section, standard pack shall have the same

meaning as set forth in U.S. Standards for Grades of Peaches

(Secs. 51.1210 to 51.1223) and all other terms shall have the same

meaning as when used in the amended marketing agreement and order. No.

12B standard fruit box measures 2\3/8\ to 7\1/8\ x 11\1/2\ x 16\1/8\

inches, No. 22D standard lug box measures 2\7/8\ to 7\1/8\ x 13\1/

2\ x 16\1/8\ inches, No.22E standard lug box measures 8\3/4\ x 13\1/

2\ x 16\1/8\ inches, No. 22G standard lug box measures 7\3/8\ to 7\1/

2\ x 13\1/4\ x 15\7/8\ inches. All dimensions are given in depth

(inside dimension) by width by length (outside dimension). Individual

consumer packages means packages holding 15 pounds or less net weight

of nectarines. ``Tree ripe'' means fruit shipped and marked as tree

ripe must meet minimum California Well Matured standards.

5. Section 917.459 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(2)(ii),

adding Table I, and revising paragraphs (a)(4), (a)(5) introductory

text, and (a)(6) introductory text to read as follows:

Sec. 917.459 California Peach Grade and Size Regulation.

(a) * * *

(2) * * *

(ii) If a grower or handler believes his/her fruit is meeting the

appropriate maturity level but the fruit has not been so graded by the

inspector, he/she may appeal the inspection by calling the officer-in-

charge of the local Federal-State Inspection Service office to arrange

for an on-site examination of the fruit.

Table I

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Column B

Column A variety maturity

guide

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Angelus.................................................. I

Ambercrest............................................... G

Armgold.................................................. D

August Sun............................................... I

Autumn Crest............................................. I

Autumn Gem............................................... I

Autumn Lady.............................................. H

Autumn Rose.............................................. I

Bella Rosa............................................... G

Belmont (Fairmont)....................................... I

Berenda Sun.............................................. I

Blum's Beauty............................................ G

Bonjour.................................................. F

Cardinal................................................. G

Cal Red.................................................. I

Carnival................................................. I

Cassie................................................... H

Coronet.................................................. E

Crimson Lady............................................. J

Crown Princess........................................... J

David Sun................................................ I

Desertgold............................................... B

Diamond Princess......................................... J

Early Coronet............................................ D

Early Fairtime........................................... I

Early May Crest.......................................... H

Early O'Henry............................................ I

Early Royal May.......................................... G

Early Top................................................ G

Elberta.................................................. B

Elegant Lady............................................. M

Fairtime................................................. G

Fancy Lady............................................... J

Fay Elberta.............................................. C

Fayette.................................................. I

Fire Red................................................. I

First Lady............................................... D

Flamecrest............................................... I

Flavorcrest.............................................. G

Flavor Queen............................................. H

Flavor Red............................................... G

Fortyniner............................................... F

Franciscan............................................... G

Goldcrest................................................ H

Golden Crest............................................. H

Golden Lady.............................................. F

Honey Red................................................ G

Jody Gaye................................................ F

John Henry............................................... J

Judy Elberta............................................. C

July Lady................................................ G

June Crest............................................... G

June Lady................................................ G

June Pride............................................... J

June Sun................................................. H

Kearney.................................................. I

Kern Sun................................................. H

Kings Lady............................................... I

Kings Red................................................ I

Lacey.................................................... I

Mardigras................................................ G

Mary Ann................................................. G

May Crest................................................ G

May Lady................................................. G

Merrill Gem.............................................. G

Merrill Gemfree.......................................... G

Morning Sun.............................................. D

O'Henry.................................................. I

Pacifica................................................. G

Parade................................................... I

Pat's Pride.............................................. D

Preuss Suncrest.......................................... F

Prima Fire............................................... H

Prima Lady............................................... J

Prime Crest.............................................. H

Queen Crest.............................................. G

Ray Crest................................................ G

Red Cal.................................................. I

Redglobe................................................. C

Redhaven................................................. G

Red Lady................................................. G

Redtop................................................... G

Regina................................................... G

Rich Lady................................................ J

Rich May................................................. H

Rio Oso Gem.............................................. I

Royal April.............................................. D

Royal Lady............................................... J

Royal May................................................ G

Ruby May................................................. H

Ryan Sun................................................. I

Scarlet Lady............................................. F

September Sun............................................ I

Sierra Crest............................................. H

Sierra Lady.............................................. I

Sparkle.................................................. I

Springcrest.............................................. G

Spring Lady.............................................. H

Springold................................................ D

Sugar Lady............................................... J

Summer Lady.............................................. M

Summerset................................................ I

Suncrest................................................. G

Sun Lady................................................. I

Topcrest................................................. H

Toreador................................................. I

Tra Zee.................................................. J

Treasure................................................. F

Willie Red............................................... G

Windsor.................................................. I

Zee Lady................................................. L

50-178................................................... G

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Note: Consult with the Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service

Supervisor for the maturity guides applicable to the varieties not

listed above.

* * * * *

(4) (i) Such peaches when packed in molded forms (tray pack) in a

No. 22D standard lug box are of a size that will pack, in accordance

with the requirements of standard pack, not more than 84 peaches in the

box; or [[Page 14897]]

(ii) Such peaches when packed in a No. 12B standard fruit (peach)

box are of a size that will pack, in accordance with the requirements

of a standard pack, not more than 65 peaches in the box; or

(iii) Such peaches in any container when packed other than as

specified in paragraph (a)(4) (i) and (ii) of this section are of a

size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the peaches in the

package or container, contains not more than 83 peaches.

(5) Any package or container of Babcock, Crimson Lady, Crown

Princess, David Sun, Early May Crest, First Lady, Flavorcrest, Golden

Crest, Honey Red, June Lady, June Sun, Kern Sun, Kingscrest, Kings Red,

May Crest, Merrill Gem, Merrill Gemfree, Queencrest, Ray Crest, Redtop,

Regina, Rich May, Royal May, Sierra Crest, Snow Brite, Snow Flame,

Springcrest, Spring Lady, Sugar May, Summer Crest, or 50-178 variety of

peaches unless:

* * * * *

(6) Any package or container of Amber Crest, Angelus, August

Delight, August Sun, Autumn Crest, Autumn Gem, Autumn Lady, Autumn

Rose, Belmont, Berenda Sun, Blum's Beauty, Cal Red, Carnival, Cassie,

Champagne, Diamond Princess, Early Elegant Lady, Early O'Henry, Elegant

Lady, Fairmont, Fairtime, Fay Elberta, Fire Red, Flamecrest, John

Henry, July Lady, June Pride, Kings Lady, Lacey, Late Ito Red, Mary

Ann, O'Henry, Parade, Prima Gattie, Prima Lady, Red Boy, Red Cal,

Redglobe, Rich Lady, Royal Lady, Ryan's Sun, Scarlet Lady, September

Snow, September Sun, Sierra Lady, Sparkle, Sprague Last Chance, Summer

Lady, Summer Sweet, Suncrest, Tra Zee, White Lady, or Zee Lady variety

of peaches unless:

* * * * *

Dated: March 15, 1995.

Sharon Bomer Lauritsen,

Deputy Director, Fruit and Vegetable Division.

[FR Doc. 95-6908 Filed 3-20-95; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 3410-02-W