Topics in this issue of Blues Update:
- From the Chair: We’re Advocating for Blueberries in Washington, D.C
- USDA Extends Census Response Deadline
- Meet Your New NABC Board of Directors
- Check Out the 2024 NABC Impact Report
- NABC March New Member Update
From the Chair: We’re Advocating for Blueberries in Washington, D.C.
By Teddy Koukoulis
NABC Chair
This week, many NABC members, staff and our lobbying team from Monument Advocacy are in Washington, D.C., for our Blueberry Hill Climb and Industry Meetings. This critical event allows us to connect with the Trump administration, members of Congress and other policymakers to share the blueberry industry’s needs and interests.
Being there in person really does make a difference, and I’m extremely grateful to all who have joined our delegation.
We’ll also be hosting NABC committee meetings, networking with our industry peers and hearing from engaging speakers throughout the week.
I look forward to sharing our many successes in a full report after the event. Stay tuned to hear all about our advocacy efforts on behalf of our beloved industry!
USDA Extends Census Response Deadline
The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) has extended the deadline to submit the 2024 Census of Horticultural Specialties to April 18.
This survey, conducted once every five years, is the only source of detailed production and sales data for specialty crops.
Submissions can be completed online at agcounts.usda.gov or by mail.
Meet Your New NABC Board of Directors
The results of the recent NABC Board of Directors election are now in, and we’re pleased to introduce you to your new and returning board members.
Newly elected to the board are:
- Chad Don, U.S. North American Grower
- Sunny Brar, Canadian North American Grower
- Christy Butler, Industry Trade Organization
- Greg Willems, Supplier
Elected to return to the board are:
- David Jackson, U.S. North American Grower
- Brittany Lee, U.S. North American Grower
- Derek Eisele, North American Distributor
Please join us in congratulating these service-minded leaders and thanking them for their dedication to the blueberry industry.
Check Out the 2024 NABC Impact Report
If you haven’t yet had a chance, now’s the time to check out the 2024 NABC Impact Report that shares the full year’s efforts when it comes to advocacy, data and insights, membership and more.
We think you’ll be impressed by our government affairs efforts and the level of visibility and influence we’ve achieved in a single year. And we’re amplifying those efforts right now at our 2024 Blueberry Hill Climb and Industry Meetings.
Don’t miss this in-depth update on all of NABC’s efforts!
NABC March New Member Update
The NABC membership roster keeps growing!
Please join us in welcoming the following new members:
- Harry Keith Bennett Jr.
- McKinnon Farms
- Multivac Inc.
If your company hasn’t renewed yet, please note that we have a grace period for members to renew in the new year that ends March 31. Renew today to keep the many benefits of NABC membership coming! Plus, spread the word to your network about why you’re a proud NABC member.
We Want to Help Promote Your Events!
If you’re hosting a blueberry-related event, we can help you spread the word. Email Gabriella Gebhardt at [email protected] with the details and we’ll include it in an upcoming newsletter.