While press attention has focused on the November elections, USApple continued to push for our top legislative priorities throughout the summer, with extensive meetings and outreach to congressional offices and Administration officials. USApple led efforts of the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance both in D.C. and with grassroots and Member visits to farms to ensure … Continued

For their 2024 class project, the NextGen Fellows partnered with USApple to create and launch an online store stocked with USApple-branded swag. This month-long pop-up store allowed anyone to order merchandise delivered straight to their door, with all proceeds supporting the NextGen program and its mission to empower the next generation of apple industry leaders. … Continued

EPA published a proposed interim decision for the fungicide Ziram and requested public comments. USApple submitted comments in July, explaining that fungicides are a valuable tool for apple growers, and Ziram is one of the few effective multi-site fungicides available to treat apple scab, bitter rot, and various other rots and molds. As growing seasons continue to … Continued

On July 17, USApple Board of Directors met with Jim Jones, FDA Deputy Commissioner for Human Foods, and members of his staff on a virtual call. Jones briefed apple leaders on FDA priorities including microbiological contamination, agricultural water, traceability, import inspections, and the definition of ‘healthy food’ labels. Jones stressed the importance of collaboration and … Continued

Throughout the summer, USApple shared information about the industry’s labor challenges on social media to continue making the case for Ag labor reform. The compelling data shared is primarily based on USApple’s analysis of the recently released USDA Ag Census. Per our analytics, we saw better-than-normal performance and engagement on this series, meaning it resonated … Continued

At the conclusion of Outlook 2024, Brett Baker became Chair of the USApple Board of Directors for the 2024-25 term. We also welcomed a handful of newly elected Board members as well as re-nominated Board members. Please visit this webpage to see all USApple Board members. USApple’s 2024-25 elected board officers include:  Welcome Brett, we look forward … Continued

In September, USDA purchased 1,011,668 cartons of apples as part of another Section 32 solicitation. Throughout the spring and summer, USApple advocated for additional government purchases of U.S.-grown apples to support the market and provide fresh produce to Americans in need. We worked closely with USDA AMS, supplying data on surplus varieties and sizes to … Continued

Each year in mid-August, the USDA releases their crop production estimates for the top seven apple producing states. Following that release, USApple puts together its Industry Outlook report which provides the most up-to-date data and analysis on U.S. and global apple production, utilization and trade. Authored by USApple Vice President of Insights and Analytics, Chris Gerlach, the … Continued

In August, we had a record-setting Outlook 2024 conference in Chicago, which attracted the largest audience in the event’s history. We also had record sponsorship support. It’s clear that Outlook has become a cornerstone of the apple industry.  By welcoming attendees with a sunset cruise and offering ample networking opportunities over the following two days, no other … Continued