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Industry Vote in June to consider Five-Cent Increase in Assessment Cap

Industry Vote in June to consider Five-Cent Increase in Assessment Cap

After review of projected monitoring and reporting costs along with fees for the Rice WDR, the CRC Board moved in December to begin the process for an industry vote to increase the assessment cap, currently set at 15 cents per hundredweight. 

The CRC wholly manages the Rice WDR on behalf of the industry meeting all water quality monitoring and reporting requirements, as well as paying the per acre fee to the State Water Board. Projected costs for the next 10 years to manage this program are expected to exceed $1.3 million annually. Along with the need to cover other small increases in other program and operating costs, the Board is moving forward with an industry vote to ask growers and handlers to increase the assessment cap to 20 cents per hundredweight. If approved, the increased assessment will be subject to annual budget development. 

Growers and handlers will receive a ballot from the California Department of Food and Agriculture in early June. Voting will extend for 60 days.

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California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention
Industry News •

California Warehouse Association – Foreign Materials Prevention

The California Warehouse Association (CWA) has shared the following informational letter and best practices flyer:

As the new harvest season approaches, we hope this letter finds you well. This letter is a friendly reminder about the importance of maintaining the highest standards in keeping foreign materials out of trucks and bins. 

Our collective efforts to ensure purity and quality of the rice we handle are crucial not only for the success of our individual operations, but also for upholding the reputation of the entire California rice industry. Contaminants and foreign materials can compromise the quality of our product, lead to costly issues down the line, and impact our relationships with customers and partners. 

Here are a few best practices to keep in mind: 

1. Regular Inspections: Implement routine checks to ensure that all trucks and bins are clean and free from any residual materials before loading. A thorough inspection can help prevent cross-contamination. 

2. Training and Awareness: Ensure that all staff involved in the handling and transportation of rice are well-trained on procedures for maintaining cleanliness and avoiding contamination. 

3. Clear Protocols: Maintain clear and effective protocols for addressing any issues that arise, and make sure these protocols are communicated and followed consistently. 

4. Maintenance: Regularly maintain and clean all equipment and facilities used in the handling and storage of rice to prevent contamination. 

Our shared commitment to these practices will not only help us maintain the high standards of our product but also contribute to a smoother and more efficient harvest season. We ask that you share these reminders with your growers and farm bins. A one-page flyer is included with this letter that can be easily distributed. The flyer can be downloaded here. 

Thank you for your attention to this important matter, and for your ongoing dedication to the quality of California’s rice industry. 

If you have any questions or need further assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out. Wishing you a successful and bountiful harvest season!

Drew Becker 
CWA President

For more information please contact the California Warehouse Association at (916) 441-1149 or email brooke@agamsi.com.