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Major Amendment Increasing CRC Assessment Cap Coming June 4 – Please Vote!

tractor at sunset

CDFA will send ballots June 4 to all producers and all handlers, asking the industry to vote on an increase in the assessment cap from $0.15 per hundredweight to $0.20 per hundredweight. The increase in the assessment cap is expected to provide up to nine years of operations for the Commission while continuing the Rice WDR and other regulatory compliance programs. The assessment rate will be set annually based on planted acres, increased costs and reserve levels. 

In order to pass, the major amendment at least 40 percent of the California rice handlers on record and 40 percent of the California rice producers on record must cast valid ballots, and one of the following must occur for both handlers and producers:

  1. At least 65 percent of the eligible entities who vote in the referendum must vote in favor of the proposal, and they must represent the majority of the total voted quantity of the commodity produced/handled in the preceding marketing season, OR
  2. The majority of the eligible entities who vote in the referendum must vote in favor of the proposal, and they must represent at least 65 percent of the total voted quantity of the commodity produced/handled in the preceding marketing season.

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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.