The U.S. Apple Association (USApple) applauds House Agriculture Committee Chairman GT Thompson for introducing the Securing Agriculture’s Workforce Act, legislation that takes meaningful steps to modernize the H-2A program and align it with the labor realities facing today’s apple growers.  This legislation recognizes that growers need a workforce program that is predictable, practical, and economically … Continued

USApple President & CEO commented today on the House of Representatives vote to pass the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026: “America’s apple growers thank Chairman GT Thompson for his leadership in advancing a new Farm Bill through the U.S. House of Representatives. This is a critical step toward long-term certainty for growers. … Continued

Today’s Interim Final Rule published by the Department of Labor (DOL) to revise the methodology for setting Adverse Effect Wage Rates (AEWR) brings long-awaited and much-needed reform to the H-2A wage system. “In less than three years, grower prices for apples have fallen 28 percent, while labor costs over that time have risen 9 percent, … Continued

“We thank Chairmen Thompson and Boozman and their teams for prioritizing critical investments in specialty crops.  The ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act’ is a win for apple growers. USApple and our specialty crop allies advocated tirelessly for key programs, including research and export promotion efforts, which received increased funding. USApple also supported tax provisions such as … Continued

Chicago (August 16, 2024)— After record-breaking production last year, apple growers expect another high-performing year, according to a new report released by the U.S. Apple Association (USApple) at the organization’s 129th annual Outlook Conference in Chicago. USApple’s Industry Outlook 2024* provides the most up-to-date data and analysis on U.S. and global apple production, utilization and trade. Authored by … Continued

Falls Church, VA (August 19, 2024) — The U.S. Apple Association (USApple) has named a new chair to lead its Board of Directors. New York marketer and shipper, Brett Baker, President of United Apple Sales, will serve the 2024-25 term.   Raised on a fruit and vegetable farm in Ransomville, New York, Baker follows a unique … Continued

Washington, D.C. (March 19, 2024) —The U.S. Apple Association’s Board of Directors met this morning with the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture, Tom Vilsack, and key members of his senior leadership team at the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Discussion of market access, agriculture labor, and renewal of the farm bill were on the agenda.  … Continued

Adams County, PA (December 12, 2023) — The Under Secretary for Trade and Foreign Agricultural Affairs for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Alexis Taylor, visited an apple packer, shipper, and marketer today in Adams County, PA. Under Secretary Taylor toured Rice Fruit Company and discussed trade, jobs, and market conditions impacting the apple industry – … Continued

Lancaster, PA (November 9, 2023)— Doug McKalip, the Chief Agricultural Negotiator in the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), visited an apple orchard today in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Ambassador McKalip toured Cherry Hill Orchards & Farm Market along with Jim Bair, President and CEO of USApple, and others in the apple industry, to discuss … Continued