[Federal Register Volume 60, Number 54 (Tuesday, March 21, 1995)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 14891-14897]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 95-6908]



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Rules and Regulations
                                                Federal Register
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Federal Register / Vol. 60, No. 54 / Tuesday, March 21, 1995 / Rules 
and Regulations
[[Page 14891]]

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Agricultural Marketing Service

7 CFR Parts 916 and 917

[Docket No. FV95-916-1-IFR]


Nectarines and Peaches Grown in California; Revision of Handling 
Requirements for Fresh Nectarines and Peaches

AGENCY: Agricultural Marketing Service, USDA.

ACTION: Interim final rule with request for comments.

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY: This rule revises the handling requirements for California 
nectarines and peaches by modifying the size, maturity, container, and 
pack requirements for fresh shipments of these fruits, beginning with 
1995 season shipments. This rule enables handlers to continue shipping 
fresh nectarines and peaches meeting consumer needs in the interest of 
producers, handlers, and consumers of these fruits.

DATES: Effective April 1, 1995. Comments which are received by April 
20, 1995 will be considered prior to issuance of any final rule.

ADDRESSES: Interested persons are invited to submit written comments 
concerning this rule. Comments must be sent in triplicate to the Docket 
Clerk, Fruit and Vegetable Division, AMS, USDA, P.O. Box 96456, Room 
2523-S, Washington, DC 20090-6456; or by facsimile at 202-720-5698. All 
comments should reference the docket number and the date and page 
number of this issue of the Federal Register and will be made available 
for public inspection at the office of the Docket Clerk during regular 
business hours.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Kenneth Johnson, Marketing Specialist, 
Marketing Order Administration Branch, Fruit and Vegetable Division, 
AMS, USDA, P.O. Box 96456, Room 2523-S, Washington, DC 20090-6456; 
telephone: (202) 720-2861; or Terry Vawter, California Marketing Field 
Office, Marketing Order Administration Branch, Fruit and Vegetable 
Division, AMS, USDA, 2202 Monterey Street, Suite 102B, Fresno, 
California, 93721; telephone: (209) 487-5901.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: This rule is issued under Marketing 
Agreement and Marketing Order Nos. 916 and 917 [7 CFR Parts 916 and 
917] regulating the handling of nectarines and peaches grown in 
California, hereinafter referred to as the orders. The orders are 
effective under the Agricultural Marketing Agreement Act of 1937, as 
amended [7 U.S.C. 601-674], hereinafter referred to as the Act.
    The Department of Agriculture (Department) is issuing this rule in 
conformance with Executive Order 12866.
    This rule has been reviewed under Executive Order 12778, Civil 
Justice Reform. This rule is not intended to have retroactive effect. 
This rule will not preempt any State or local laws, regulations, or 
policies, unless they present an irreconcilable conflict with this 
rule.
    The Act provides that administrative proceedings must be exhausted 
before parties may file suit in court. Under section 608c(15)(A) of the 
Act, any handler subject to an order may file with the Secretary a 
petition stating that the order, any provision of the order, or any 
obligation imposed in connection with the order is not in accordance 
with law and request a modification of the order or to be exempted 
therefrom. A handler is afforded the opportunity for a hearing on the 
petition. After the hearing the Secretary would rule on the petition. 
The Act provides that the district court of the United States in any 
district in which the handler is an inhabitant, or has his or her 
principal place of business, has jurisdiction in equity to review the 
Secretary's ruling on the petition, provided a bill in equity is filed 
not later than 20 days after the date of the entry of the ruling.
    Pursuant to requirements set forth in the Regulatory Flexibility 
Act (RFA), the Administrator of the Agricultural Marketing Service 
(AMS) has considered the economic impact of this action on small 
entities. The purpose of the RFA is to fit regulatory actions to the 
scale of business subject to such actions in order that small 
businesses will not be unduly or disproportionately burdened. Marketing 
orders issued pursuant to the Act, and rules issued thereunder, are 
unique in that they are brought about through group action of 
essentially small entities acting on their own behalf. Thus, both 
statutes have small entity orientation and compatibility.
    There are about 300 California nectarine and peach handlers subject 
to regulation under the orders covering nectarines and peaches grown in 
California, and about 1,800 producers of these fruits in California. 
Small agricultural service firms have been defined by the Small 
Business Administration [13 CFR 121.601] as those having annual 
receipts of less than $500,000, and small agricultural producers are 
defined as those whose annual receipts are less than $5,000,000. A 
majority of these handlers and producers may be classified as small 
entities.
    The Nectarine Administrative Committee (NAC) and the Peach 
Commodity Committee (PCC) met December 7, 1994, and recommended that 
the handling requirements for California nectarines and peaches be 
revised, respectively. These committees meet prior to and during each 
season to review the rules and regulations effective on a continuous 
basis for California nectarines and peaches under the orders. Committee 
meetings are open to the public, and interested persons may express 
their views at these meetings. The Department reviews committee 
recommendations and information, as well as information from other 
sources, and determines whether modification, suspension, or 
termination of the rules and regulations would tend to effectuate the 
declared policy of the Act.

Container and Pack Requirements (Nectarines)

    Section 916.350 specifies container and pack requirements for fresh 
nectarine shipments. Paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 916.350 specifies the 
tray-pack size designations which must be marked on loose-filled or 
tight-filled containers, depending on the size of the fruit. The size 
designations specify the maximum number of nectarines in a 16-pound 
sample for each tray-pack size designation. This rule revises paragraph 
[[Page 14892]] (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 916.350 by modifying two size 
designations for the weight-count standards in Column B of TABLE I for 
early-season and mid-season nectarine varieties. This table was added 
prior to the 1994 season. Research conducted by the NAC indicated that 
early-season and mid-season fruit weigh less than late-season fruit and 
therefore different weight-count standards were established for late-
season fruit. Results from further research during the 1994 season 
suggest that some minor modifications of TABLE I are necessary to 
provide for more accurate weight-count standards for early-season and 
mid-season nectarines.
    The NAC recommended these revised weight-count standards for 
nectarines after a comprehensive review of the relationships between 
the tray-pack containers and loose-filled or tight-filled containers 
for early-season and mid-season nectarine varieties. Specifically, the 
NAC's recommendation provides that the maximum number of nectarines of 
size 80 in a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-season fruit is 
more appropriately 75 rather than 76. Also, the maximum number of 
nectarines of size 64 in a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-
season fruit is more appropriately 55 rather than 56.
    Pack regulations provide for uniform packing practices. In 
particular, weight-count standards provide for comparability between 
fruit packed in loose-filled or tight-filled containers and fruit 
packed in tray-pack containers.
    According to the NAC, packers occasionally moved fruit from tray-
pack containers to loose-filled or tight-filled containers. This 
activity has led to an awareness, in regard to early-season and mid-
season varieties, that fruit which was of proper size when tray-packed 
exceeded the maximum number of nectarines for the 16-pound sample for 
corresponding loose-filled or tight-filled containers. In some 
instances, these samples would need additional pieces of fruit to meet 
the 16-pound weight requirement, thus causing the pack to be marked 
smaller than its equivalent tray-pack size. When packs are marked with 
a smaller size, the container is generally sold for a lower price. 
Revised and refined weight-count standards for early-season and mid-
season varieties should provide for more accurate marking of size when 
packed in loose-filled or tight-filled containers compared to 
equivalent sizes that are tray packed. These regulations provide for 
uniformly packed containers of nectarines.
    Currently, under the marketing order the minimum maturity 
requirement for nectarines grown in California is U.S. Mature, which 
means that the nectarine has reached the stage of growth which will 
insure a proper completion of the ripening process. A higher maturity 
standard is defined as California ``Well Matured,'' which is a 
condition distinctly more advanced than mature.
    This rule adds a definition of ``tree ripe'' to paragraph (b) of 
section 916.350. According to the NAC, ``tree ripe'' is an optional 
marking without regard to maturity that is stamped on containers of 
nectarines. Currently there is no definition of ``tree ripe''. As a 
result of inquiries from the industry and the trade, the NAC 
recommended defining ``tree ripe'' so that it has a standard meaning. 
In the past, there has been no definition of ``tree ripe'' although 
fruit boxes marked ``tree ripe'' had to meet the minimum marketing 
order maturity standard of U.S. Mature. Handlers have been able to 
stamp any maturity level, including U.S. Mature, as ``tree ripe'' due 
to a lack of any definition for this nomenclature. The NAC stated that 
in some instances, handlers have stamped ``tree ripe'' on every box of 
fruit they packed all season. There is growing concern within the 
industry that fruit packed at the lower level of acceptable maturity do 
not represent what is most commonly perceived as tree ripe. By 
requiring that fruit must be at a minimum California Well Matured 
maturity standard in order to be marked ``tree ripe'' will help ensure 
that buyer expectations are met.

Maturity Requirements (Nectarines)

    Section 916.356 specifies maturity requirements for fresh 
nectarines in paragraph (a)(1)(i), including TABLE I, for fruit being 
inspected and certified as meeting the maturity requirements for ``well 
matured'' fruit. Such maturity requirements are based on maturity 
measurements which are generally recognized in terms of maturity guides 
(e.g., color chips) specified in paragraph (a)(1)(i) and TABLE I of 
Sec. 916.356 for nectarines. This rule revises TABLE I of paragraph 
(a)(1)(i) of Sec. 916.356 for nectarines to change the maturity guide 
for one nectarine variety.
    Specifically, a change in color standard was recommended for Alshir 
Red from L to J. In a corresponding action, the tolerance for the 
Alshir Red variety that states ``except not less than an aggregate area 
of 95% of fruit surface shall meet the color standard established for 
the variety'' is deleted.
    These changes for this nectarine variety are based on a continuing 
review of its individual maturity characteristics, and the 
identification of the appropriate color chip corresponding to the 
``well matured'' level of maturity for such variety.

Size Requirements (Nectarines)

    Section 916.356 specifies size requirements for fresh nectarines in 
paragraphs (a)(2) through (a)(9). This rule revises Sec. 916.356 to 
establish variety-specific size requirements for fourteen nectarine 
varieties that were produced in commercially significant quantities of 
more than 10,000 packages for the first time during the 1994 season.
    Size regulations are put in place to improve fruit quality by 
allowing fruit to stay on the tree for a greater length of time which 
not only improves maturity and therefore the quality of the product but 
also size and increases the number of packed boxes of nectarines per 
acre. This provides greater consumer satisfaction, more repeat 
purchases and therefore increases returns to growers. Varieties 
recommended for specific size regulation have been reviewed and 
recommendations are based on the characteristics of the variety to 
attain minimum size.
    Paragraph (a)(4) is revised to include the Arctic Glo, May Jim, and 
Red Glo varieties; and paragraph (a)(6) of Sec. 916.356 is revised to 
include the Arctic Queen, How Red, La Pinta, Red Fred, Royal Glo, Royal 
Red, Ruby Diamond, Spring Bright, Summer Blush, 424-195, and Nectarine 
23 varieties.
    This rule also revises Sec. 916.356 to remove six nectarine 
varieties from the variety-specific size requirements specified in the 
section because less than 5,000 packages of each of these varieties 
were produced during the 1994 season. Paragraph (a)(2) of that section 
is revised to remove the Aurelio Grand and Maybelle nectarine 
varieties; paragraph (a)(4) is revised to remove the Grand Stan 
variety; and paragraph (a)(6) is revised to remove the Autumn Grand, Le 
Grand, and Super Red nectarine varieties. Nectarine varieties removed 
from the nectarine variety-specific list become subject to the non-
listed variety size requirements specified in paragraphs (a)(7), 
(a)(8), and (a)(9) of Sec. 916.356.
    The NAC recommended these changes in the minimum size requirements 
based on a continuing review of the sizing and maturity relationships 
for these nectarine varieties, and consumer acceptance levels for 
various sizes of fruit. This rule is designed to establish minimum size 
requirements for fresh nectarines consistent with expected crop and 
market conditions. [[Page 14893]] 

Container and Pack Requirements (Peaches)

    Section 917.442 currently specifies container and pack requirements 
for fresh peach shipments. Paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 917.442 
specifies the tray-pack size designations which must be marked on 
loose-filled or tight-filled containers, depending on the size of the 
fruit. The size designations specify the maximum number of peaches in a 
16-pound sample for each tray pack size designation. This rule revises 
paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 917.442 by modifying three size 
designations for the weight-count standards in Column B of TABLE I for 
early-season and mid-season peach varieties. Research conducted by the 
PCC indicated that early-season and mid-season fruit weighs less than 
late-season fruit and the weight-count standards were, therefore, 
modified based on that consideration. Results from the 1994 season 
suggest that some minor modifications of TABLE I are necessary to 
further correct the weight-count differences between early-season and 
mid-season peaches, and late-season peaches.
    The PCC recommended the revised container marking requirement 
changes for peaches after a comprehensive review of the appropriate 
size pack-count relationships between the tray-pack containers and 
loose-filled or tight-filled containers for early-season and mid-season 
peach varieties prior to the 1995 season. Specifically, the PCC's 
recommendation provides that the maximum number of peaches of size 84 
in a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-season fruit is more 
appropriately 83 rather than 85. Also, the maximum number of peaches of 
size 70 in a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-season fruit is 
more appropriately 64 rather than 66. The maximum number of peaches of 
size 60 in a 16-pound sample of early-season to mid-season fruit is 
more appropriately 50 rather than 47.
    In making this revision, a conforming change is required in 
Sec. 917.459(a)(4)(iii) which is referenced in TABLE I. Section 
917.459(a)(4)(iii) currently provides a maximum number of 85 peaches in 
a 16-pound sample of early-season and mid-season fruit. This revision 
will modify the maximum number of peaches in a 16-pound sample of 
early-season and mid-season fruit to 83 pieces of fruit from the 
current 85 pieces of fruit.
    Pack regulations provide for uniform packing practices. In 
particular, weight-count standards provide for equality between packs 
of loose-filled or tight-filled sizes to fruit sizes packed in tray-
pack styles. Varieties harvested early in the season and packed in 
loose-filled or tight-filled pack styles have had more difficulty being 
equal in size to tray-pack style of packing.
    According to the PCC, packers occasionally moved fruit from tray-
pack styles of pack to loose-filled or tight-filled pack styles. This 
activity has led to an awareness, especially in regard to early-season 
varieties, that fruit which was of proper size when tray-packed 
exceeded the maximum number of nectarines for the 16-pound sample for 
corresponding loose- or tight-filled pack size. In some instances, 
these samples would need as many as 10 additional pieces of fruit to 
meet the 16-pound weight requirement, thus causing the pack to be 
``marked'' smaller than its equivalent tray-pack size. When packs are 
``marked'' smaller this causes the container to be sold for a lower 
price. During the 1994 season new weight-count assignments for early 
varieties were in place. Research continued with the purpose of 
possible refinement of those weight-count assignments.
    Revised and refined weight-count standards for early varieties 
should provide for more accurate marking size when packed in loose-
filled or tight-filled pack styles compared to equivalent sizes that 
are tray packed. These regulations provide for uniformly packed 
containers of peaches.
    Currently, under the marketing order the minimum maturity 
requirement for peaches grown in California is U.S. Mature, which means 
that the peach has reached the stage of growth which will insure a 
proper completion of the ripening process. A higher maturity standard 
is defined as California ``Well Matured,'' which is a condition 
distinctly more advanced than mature.
    This rule adds a definition of tree ripe to section 917.442 
paragraph (b). According to the PCC, tree ripe is an optional marking 
without regard to maturity that is stamped on containers of peaches. 
Currently there is no definition of tree ripe. As a result of inquiries 
from the industry and the trade, the PCC wants to define tree ripe so 
that its interpretation is consistent with other descriptive markings. 
In the past there has been no definition of tree ripe although fruit 
boxes marked ``tree ripe'' had to meet minimum marketing order 
standards. Handlers have been able to stamp any maturity level, 
including U.S. Mature, as tree ripe due to a lack of any definition for 
this nomenclature. The PCC states that in some instances in the past, 
it is known that some handlers have stamped tree ripe on every box of 
fruit they packed all season. There is growing concern among the 
industry that fruit packed at the lowest levels of maturity do not 
represent what is most commonly perceived as tree ripe. By requiring 
fruit be at a minimum California ``Well Matured'' maturity standard in 
order to be marked tree ripe will help ensure that buyer expectations 
are met.

Maturity Requirements (Peaches)

    Section 917.459 specifies maturity requirements for fresh peaches 
in paragraph (a)(1)(i), including TABLE I, for fruit being inspected 
and certified as meeting the maturity requirements for ``well matured'' 
fruit. Such maturity requirements are based on maturity measurements 
which are generally recognized in terms of maturity guides (e.g., color 
chips) specified in paragraph (a)(1)(i) and TABLE I of Sec. 917.459 for 
peaches. This rule revises TABLE I of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of 
Sec. 917.459 for peaches to change the maturity guide for the David 
Sun, King's Red, Crimson Lady and Johnny's White peach varieties.
    The SPI recommended these changes for these peach varieties based 
on a continuing review of their individual maturity characteristics, 
and the identification of the appropriate color chip corresponding to 
the ``well matured'' level of maturity for such varieties.

Size Requirements (Peaches)

    Section 917.459 specifies size requirements for fresh peaches in 
paragraphs (a)(2) through (a)(6), and paragraphs (b) and (c). This rule 
revises Sec. 917.459 to establish variety-specific size requirements 
for eight peach varieties that were produced in commercially 
significant quantities of more than 10,000 packages for the first time 
during the 1994 season.
    Size regulations are put in place to improve fruit quality by 
allowing fruit to stay on the tree for a greater length of time which 
not only improves maturity and therefore the quality of the product but 
also size and increases the number of packed boxes of peaches per acre. 
This provides greater consumer satisfaction, more repeat purchases and 
therefore increases returns to growers. Varieties recommended for 
specific size regulation have been reviewed and recommendations are 
based on the characteristics of the variety to attain minimum size.
    In Sec. 917.459 paragraph (a)(5) is revised to include the Snow 
Brite and Sugar May peach varieties; and paragraph (a)(6) is revised to 
include the August Delight, Autumn Rose, Red Boy, Royal Lady, September 
Snow, and Summer Sweet peach varieties.
[[Page 14894]]

    This rule also revises Sec. 917.459 to remove two peach varieties 
from the variety-specific size requirements specified in that section, 
because less than 5,000 packages of each of these varieties were 
produced during the 1994 season. In Sec. 917.459 paragraph (a)(4) of 
Sec. 917.459 is revised to remove the Morning Sun peach variety; and 
paragraph (a)(6) is revised to remove the Golden Lady peach variety. 
Peach varieties removed from the variety-specific list become subject 
to the non-listed variety size requirements specified in paragraphs (b) 
and (c) of Sec. 917.459.
    The removal of the Morning Sun variety from paragraph (a)(4) 
results in there being no varieties regulated within size 84 for the 
1995 season. Since the variety-specific list is subject to change from 
one season to another, the Department wishes to reserve paragraph 
number Sec. 916.459(a)(4) for future regulation of peaches at size 84.
    The PCC recommended these changes in the minimum size requirements 
based on a continuing review of the sizing and maturity relationships 
for these peach varieties, and the consumer acceptance levels for 
various sizes of fruit. This rule is designed to establish minimum size 
requirements for fresh peaches consistent with expected crop and market 
conditions.
    This rule reflects the committees' and the Department's appraisal 
of the need to revise the handling requirements for California 
nectarines and peaches, as specified. The Department's determination is 
that this rule will have a beneficial impact on producers, handlers, 
and consumers of California nectarines and peaches.
    This rule establishes handling requirements for fresh California 
nectarines and peaches consistent with expected crop and market 
conditions, and will help ensure that all shipments of these fruits 
made each season will meet acceptable handling requirements established 
under each of these orders. This rule will also help the California 
nectarine and peach industries provide fruit desired by consumers. This 
rule is designed to establish and maintain orderly marketing conditions 
for these fruits in the interest of producers, handlers, and consumers.
    Based on the above, the Administrator of the AMS has determined 
that this rule will not have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities.
    After consideration of all relevant matters presented, the 
information and recommendations submitted by the committees, and other 
information, it is found that the rule, as hereinafter set forth, will 
tend to effectuate the declared policy of the Act.
    Pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 553, it is also found and determined, upon 
good cause, that it is impracticable, unnecessary and contrary to the 
public interest to give preliminary notice prior to putting this rule 
into effect, and that good cause exists for not postponing the 
effective date of this rule until 30 days after publication in the 
Federal Register because: (1) California nectarine and peach growers 
and handlers should be apprised of this rule as soon as possible, since 
early shipments of these fruits are expected to begin about April 1; 
(2) this rule relaxes grade requirements for peaches and size 
requirements for several nectarine and peach varieties; (3) California 
nectarine and peach handlers are aware of these revised requirements 
recommended by the committees at public meetings, and they will need no 
additional time to comply with such requirements; and (4) the rule 
provides a 30-day comment period, and any written comments received 
will be considered prior to any finalization of this interim final 
rule.

List of Subjects

7 CFR Part 916

    Marketing agreements, Nectarines, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

7 CFR Part 917

    Marketing agreements, Peaches, Pears, Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements.

    For the reasons set forth in the preamble, 7 CFR Parts 916 and 917 
are amended as follows:

PART 916--NECTARINES GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

    1. The authority citation for 7 CFR Parts 916 and 917 continues to 
read as follows:

    Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674.

    2. Section 916.350 is amended by revising TABLE I of paragraph 
(a)(4)(iv) and paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec. 916.350  California Nectarine Container and Pack Regulation.

    (a) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (iv) * * *

Table I--Weight-Count Standards for Nectarines Packed in Loose or Tight-
                            Filled Containers                           
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         Column A<SUP>1                            Column B<SUP>2 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
108........................................................          100
96.........................................................           90
88.........................................................           83
84.........................................................           78
80.........................................................           75
72.........................................................           67
70.........................................................           60
64.........................................................           55
60.........................................................           49
56.........................................................           46
54.........................................................           40
50.........................................................           38
48.........................................................           35
42.........................................................           31
40.........................................................           30
36.........................................................           25
34.........................................................           23
32.........................................................           22
30.........................................................          19 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Tray Pack Size Designation.                                          
\2\Maximum Number of Nectarines in a 16-pound Sample Applicable to      
  Varieties Specified in Paragraphs (a)(2)(ii), (a)(3)(ii), (a)(4)(ii), 
  (a)(5)(ii), (a)(7)(ii), and (a)(8)(ii) of Sec.  916.356.              

* * * * *
    (b) As used in this section, standard pack and fairly uniform in 
size shall have the same meanings as set forth in U.S. Standards for 
Grades of Nectarines (Secs. 51.3145 to 51.3160) and all other terms 
shall have the same meaning as when used in the amended marketing 
agreement and order. No. 12B standard fruit box measures 2\3/8\ to 7\1/
8\  x  11\1/2\  x  16\1/8\ inches, No. 22D standard lug box measures 
2\7/8\ to 7\1/8\  x  13\1/2\  x  16\1/8\ inches, No.22E standard lug 
box measures 8\3/4\  x  13\1/2\  x  16\1/8\ inches, No. 22G standard 
lug box measures 7\3/8\ to 7\1/2\  x  13\1/4\  x  15\7/8\ inches. All 
dimensions are given in depth (inside dimension) by width by length 
(outside dimension). Individual consumer packages means packages 
holding 15 pounds or less net weight of nectarines. ``Tree ripe'' means 
fruit shipped and marked as tree ripe must meet minimum California Well 
Matured standards.
    3. Section 916.356 is amended by revising paragraphs (a) 
introductory text, (a)(1), (a)(1)(i), Table I, (a)(2) introductory 
text, (a)(4) introductory text, and (a)(6) introductory text to read as 
follows:


Sec. 916.356  California Nectarine Grade and Size Regulation.

    (a) During the period beginning April 1 and ending October 31, no 
handler shall ship:
    (1) Any lot or package or container of any variety of nectarines 
unless such nectarines meet the requirements of U.S. No. 1 grade: 
Provided, That nectarines 2 inches in diameter or smaller, shall not 
[[Page 14895]] have fairly light colored, fairly smooth scars which 
exceed an aggregate area of a circle \3/8\ inch in diameter, and 
nectarines larger than 2 inches in diameter shall not have fairly light 
colored, fairly smooth scars which exceed an aggregate area of a circle 
\1/2\ inch in diameter: Provided further, That an additional tolerance 
of 25 percent shall be permitted for fruit that is not well formed but 
not badly misshapen. The Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service 
shall make final determinations on maturity through the use of color 
guides or such other tests as determined appropriate by the inspection 
agency.
    (i) The Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service will use the 
maturity guides listed in TABLE I in making maturity determinations for 
the specified varieties when inspecting to the ``well matured'' level 
of maturity. For these varieties, not less than 90 percent of any lot 
shall meet the color guide established for the variety, and an 
aggregate area of not less than 90 percent of the fruit surface shall 
meet the color guide established for the variety, except that for the 
Fairlane, Tom Grand, and 61-61 varieties of nectarines, not less than 
an aggregate area of 80 percent of the fruit surface shall meet the 
color guide established for the variety. For varieties not listed, the 
Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service will use such tests as it 
deems proper. A variance for any variety from the application of the 
maturity guides specified in TABLE I may be granted during the season 
to reflect changes in crop, weather, or other conditions that would 
make the specified guides an inappropriate measure of ``well matured.''

                                 Table I                                
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Column B  
                     Column A variety                         maturity  
                                                               guide    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Alshir Red...............................................  J            
Ama Lyn..................................................  G            
Apache...................................................  G            
April Glo................................................  H            
Armking..................................................  B            
August Glo...............................................  L            
August Red...............................................  J            
Aurelio Grand............................................  F            
Autumn Delight...........................................  M            
Autumn Grand.............................................  L            
Bob Grand................................................  L            
Clinton-Strawberry.......................................  H            
Del Rio Rey..............................................  G            
Desert Dawn..............................................  G            
Early Diamond............................................  J            
Early May................................................  F            
Early May Grand..........................................  H            
Early Star...............................................  G            
Early Sungrand...........................................  H            
Fairlane.................................................  M            
Fantasia.................................................  J            
Firebrite................................................  H            
Flamekist................................................  L            
Flaming Red..............................................  K            
Flavor Grand.............................................  G            
Flavortop................................................  J            
Flavortop I..............................................  K            
Gee Red..................................................  H            
Gold King................................................  H            
Granderli................................................  J            
Grand Stan...............................................  F            
Hi-Red...................................................  J            
Independence.............................................  H            
July Red.................................................  L            
June Glo.................................................  H            
June Grand...............................................  G            
Kent Grand...............................................  L            
Kism Grand...............................................  J            
Larry's Grand............................................  M            
Late Le Grand............................................  L            
Late Tina Red............................................  I            
Le Grand.................................................  H            
Maybelle.................................................  F            
May Diamond..............................................  I            
Mayfair..................................................  C            
May Fire.................................................  H            
May Glo..................................................  H            
May Grand................................................  H            
May Kist.................................................  H            
Mayred...................................................  B            
Mid Glo..................................................  L            
Mike Grand...............................................  H            
Moon Grand...............................................  M            
Niagara Grand............................................  H            
Pacific Star.............................................  G            
P-R Red..................................................  L            
Red Diamond..............................................  M            
Red Delight..............................................  I            
Red Free.................................................  L            
Red Glen.................................................  J            
Red Grand................................................  H            
Red Jim..................................................  L            
Red June.................................................  G            
Red Lion.................................................  J            
Red May..................................................  J            
Regal Grand..............................................  L            
Rio Red..................................................  L            
Royal Delight............................................  F            
Royal Giant..............................................  I            
Ruby Grand...............................................  J            
Ruby Sun.................................................  J            
Scarlet Red..............................................  K            
September Grand..........................................  L            
September Red............................................  L            
Sheri Red................................................  J            
Sierra Star/181-119......................................  G            
Son Red..................................................  L            
Sparkling June...........................................  M            
Sparkling May............................................  J            
Sparkling Red............................................  L            
Spring Diamond...........................................  M            
Spring Grand.............................................  G            
Spring Red...............................................  H            
Springtop................................................  B            
Stan's Grand.............................................  C            
Star Bright..............................................  G            
Star Brite...............................................  J            
Star Grand...............................................  H            
Summer Beaut.............................................  H            
Summer Blush.............................................  J            
Summer Bright............................................  J            
Summer Diamond...........................................  M            
Summer Fire..............................................  L            
Summer Grand.............................................  L            
Summer Lion..............................................  M            
Summer Red...............................................  L            
Summer Star..............................................  G            
Sunburst.................................................  J            
Sun Diamond..............................................  I            
Sunfre...................................................  F            
Sun Grand................................................  G            
Super Star...............................................  G            
Tasty Free...............................................  J            
Tasty Gold...............................................  H            
Tom Grand................................................  L            
Zee Glo..................................................  J            
61-61....................................................  J            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Consult with the Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service      
  Supervisor for the maturity guides applicable to the varieties not    
  listed above.                                                         

 * * * * *
    (2) Any package or container of May Glo variety nectarines through 
May 5 of each year; or April Glo, Mayfire, or Royal Delight variety 
nectarines, unless:
* * * * *
    (4) Any package or container of Early May, Mike Grand, June Brite, 
June Glo, May Grand, May Diamond, May Lion, Pacific Star, Red Delight, 
Rose Diamond, Sparkling May, Star Brite, Sunfire, or Zee Grand variety 
nectarines unless:
* * * * *
    (6) Any package or container of Alshir Red, Alta Red, Arctic Queen, 
Arctic Rose, August Glo, August Red, Autumn Delight, Big Jim, Bob 
Grand, Del Rio Rey, Early Red Jim, Early Sungrand, Fairlane, Fantasia, 
Firebrite, Flamekist, Flaming Red, Flavor Grand, Flavortop, Flavortop 
I, Grand Diamond, How Red, Independence, July Red, King Jim, Kay 
Diamond, Kism Grand, La Pinta, Late Le Grand, Late Red Jim, Mid Glo, 
Moon Grand, Niagara Grand, Prima Diamond, P-R Red, Red Diamond, Red 
Fred, Red Free, Red Glen, Red Jim, Red Lion, Rio Red, Royal Giant, 
Royal Glo, Royal Red, Ruby Diamond, Ruby Grand, Scarlet Red, September 
Grand, September Red, Son Red, Sparkling June, Sparkling Red, Spring 
Bright, Spring Diamond, Spring Red, Summer Beaut, Summer Blush, Summer 
Bright, Summer Diamond, Summer Fire, Summer Grand, Summer Lion, Summer 
Red, Summer Star, Sunburst, Sun Diamond, Sun Grand, Super Star, Tasty 
Gold, Tom Grand, Zee Glo, 181-119, 80P-1135, 424-195, or Nectarine 23 
variety nectarines unless:
* * * * *
[[Page 14896]]

PART 917--FRESH PEARS AND PEACHES GROWN IN CALIFORNIA

    4. Section 917.442 is amended by revising TABLE I of paragraph 
(a)(4)(iv) and paragraph (b) to read as follows:


Sec. 917.442  California Peach Container and Pack Regulation.

    (a) * * *
    (4) * * *
    (iv) * * *

  Table I--Weight-Count Standards for Peaches Packed in Loose or Tight- 
                            Filled Containers                           
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                        Column A\1\                          Column B\2\
------------------------------------------------------------------------
96.........................................................           96
88.........................................................           92
84.........................................................           83
80.........................................................           76
72.........................................................           68
70.........................................................           64
64.........................................................           56
60.........................................................           50
56.........................................................           46
54.........................................................           43
50.........................................................           39
48.........................................................           35
42.........................................................           31
40.........................................................           30
36.........................................................           27
34.........................................................           25
32.........................................................           23
30.........................................................          21 
------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\Tray Pack Size Designation.                                          
\2\Maximum Number of Peaches in a 16-pound Sample Applicable to         
  Varieties Specified in Paragraphs (a)(2)(ii), (a)(3)(ii), (a)(4)(iii),
  (a)(5)(ii), and (b)(3) of Sec.  917.459.                              

* * * * *
    (b) As used in this section, standard pack shall have the same 
meaning as set forth in U.S. Standards for Grades of Peaches 
(Secs. 51.1210 to 51.1223) and all other terms shall have the same 
meaning as when used in the amended marketing agreement and order. No. 
12B standard fruit box measures 2\3/8\ to 7\1/8\ x 11\1/2\ x 16\1/8\ 
inches, No. 22D standard lug box measures 2\7/8\ to 7\1/8\ x 13\1/
2\ x 16\1/8\ inches, No.22E standard lug box measures 8\3/4\ x 13\1/
2\ x 16\1/8\ inches, No. 22G standard lug box measures 7\3/8\ to 7\1/
2\ x 13\1/4\ x 15\7/8\ inches. All dimensions are given in depth 
(inside dimension) by width by length (outside dimension). Individual 
consumer packages means packages holding 15 pounds or less net weight 
of nectarines. ``Tree ripe'' means fruit shipped and marked as tree 
ripe must meet minimum California Well Matured standards.
    5. Section 917.459 is amended by revising paragraph (a)(2)(ii), 
adding Table I, and revising paragraphs (a)(4), (a)(5) introductory 
text, and (a)(6) introductory text to read as follows:


Sec. 917.459  California Peach Grade and Size Regulation.

    (a) * * *
    (2) * * *
    (ii) If a grower or handler believes his/her fruit is meeting the 
appropriate maturity level but the fruit has not been so graded by the 
inspector, he/she may appeal the inspection by calling the officer-in-
charge of the local Federal-State Inspection Service office to arrange 
for an on-site examination of the fruit.

                                 Table I                                
------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                              Column B  
                     Column A variety                         maturity  
                                                               guide    
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Angelus..................................................  I            
Ambercrest...............................................  G            
Armgold..................................................  D            
August Sun...............................................  I            
Autumn Crest.............................................  I            
Autumn Gem...............................................  I            
Autumn Lady..............................................  H            
Autumn Rose..............................................  I            
Bella Rosa...............................................  G            
Belmont (Fairmont).......................................  I            
Berenda Sun..............................................  I            
Blum's Beauty............................................  G            
Bonjour..................................................  F            
Cardinal.................................................  G            
Cal Red..................................................  I            
Carnival.................................................  I            
Cassie...................................................  H            
Coronet..................................................  E            
Crimson Lady.............................................  J            
Crown Princess...........................................  J            
David Sun................................................  I            
Desertgold...............................................  B            
Diamond Princess.........................................  J            
Early Coronet............................................  D            
Early Fairtime...........................................  I            
Early May Crest..........................................  H            
Early O'Henry............................................  I            
Early Royal May..........................................  G            
Early Top................................................  G            
Elberta..................................................  B            
Elegant Lady.............................................  M            
Fairtime.................................................  G            
Fancy Lady...............................................  J            
Fay Elberta..............................................  C            
Fayette..................................................  I            
Fire Red.................................................  I            
First Lady...............................................  D            
Flamecrest...............................................  I            
Flavorcrest..............................................  G            
Flavor Queen.............................................  H            
Flavor Red...............................................  G            
Fortyniner...............................................  F            
Franciscan...............................................  G            
Goldcrest................................................  H            
Golden Crest.............................................  H            
Golden Lady..............................................  F            
Honey Red................................................  G            
Jody Gaye................................................  F            
John Henry...............................................  J            
Judy Elberta.............................................  C            
July Lady................................................  G            
June Crest...............................................  G            
June Lady................................................  G            
June Pride...............................................  J            
June Sun.................................................  H            
Kearney..................................................  I            
Kern Sun.................................................  H            
Kings Lady...............................................  I            
Kings Red................................................  I            
Lacey....................................................  I            
Mardigras................................................  G            
Mary Ann.................................................  G            
May Crest................................................  G            
May Lady.................................................  G            
Merrill Gem..............................................  G            
Merrill Gemfree..........................................  G            
Morning Sun..............................................  D            
O'Henry..................................................  I            
Pacifica.................................................  G            
Parade...................................................  I            
Pat's Pride..............................................  D            
Preuss Suncrest..........................................  F            
Prima Fire...............................................  H            
Prima Lady...............................................  J            
Prime Crest..............................................  H            
Queen Crest..............................................  G            
Ray Crest................................................  G            
Red Cal..................................................  I            
Redglobe.................................................  C            
Redhaven.................................................  G            
Red Lady.................................................  G            
Redtop...................................................  G            
Regina...................................................  G            
Rich Lady................................................  J            
Rich May.................................................  H            
Rio Oso Gem..............................................  I            
Royal April..............................................  D            
Royal Lady...............................................  J            
Royal May................................................  G            
Ruby May.................................................  H            
Ryan Sun.................................................  I            
Scarlet Lady.............................................  F            
September Sun............................................  I            
Sierra Crest.............................................  H            
Sierra Lady..............................................  I            
Sparkle..................................................  I            
Springcrest..............................................  G            
Spring Lady..............................................  H            
Springold................................................  D            
Sugar Lady...............................................  J            
Summer Lady..............................................  M            
Summerset................................................  I            
Suncrest.................................................  G            
Sun Lady.................................................  I            
Topcrest.................................................  H            
Toreador.................................................  I            
Tra Zee..................................................  J            
Treasure.................................................  F            
Willie Red...............................................  G            
Windsor..................................................  I            
Zee Lady.................................................  L            
50-178...................................................  G            
------------------------------------------------------------------------
Note: Consult with the Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service      
  Supervisor for the maturity guides applicable to the varieties not    
  listed above.                                                         

 * * * * *
    (4) (i) Such peaches when packed in molded forms (tray pack) in a 
No. 22D standard lug box are of a size that will pack, in accordance 
with the requirements of standard pack, not more than 84 peaches in the 
box; or [[Page 14897]] 
    (ii) Such peaches when packed in a No. 12B standard fruit (peach) 
box are of a size that will pack, in accordance with the requirements 
of a standard pack, not more than 65 peaches in the box; or

    (iii) Such peaches in any container when packed other than as 
specified in paragraph (a)(4) (i) and (ii) of this section are of a 
size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the peaches in the 
package or container, contains not more than 83 peaches.

    (5) Any package or container of Babcock, Crimson Lady, Crown 
Princess, David Sun, Early May Crest, First Lady, Flavorcrest, Golden 
Crest, Honey Red, June Lady, June Sun, Kern Sun, Kingscrest, Kings Red, 
May Crest, Merrill Gem, Merrill Gemfree, Queencrest, Ray Crest, Redtop, 
Regina, Rich May, Royal May, Sierra Crest, Snow Brite, Snow Flame, 
Springcrest, Spring Lady, Sugar May, Summer Crest, or 50-178 variety of 
peaches unless:

* * * * *

    (6) Any package or container of Amber Crest, Angelus, August 
Delight, August Sun, Autumn Crest, Autumn Gem, Autumn Lady, Autumn 
Rose, Belmont, Berenda Sun, Blum's Beauty, Cal Red, Carnival, Cassie, 
Champagne, Diamond Princess, Early Elegant Lady, Early O'Henry, Elegant 
Lady, Fairmont, Fairtime, Fay Elberta, Fire Red, Flamecrest, John 
Henry, July Lady, June Pride, Kings Lady, Lacey, Late Ito Red, Mary 
Ann, O'Henry, Parade, Prima Gattie, Prima Lady, Red Boy, Red Cal, 
Redglobe, Rich Lady, Royal Lady, Ryan's Sun, Scarlet Lady, September 
Snow, September Sun, Sierra Lady, Sparkle, Sprague Last Chance, Summer 
Lady, Summer Sweet, Suncrest, Tra Zee, White Lady, or Zee Lady variety 
of peaches unless:

* * * * *

    Dated: March 15, 1995.

Sharon Bomer Lauritsen,

Deputy Director, Fruit and Vegetable Division.
[FR Doc. 95-6908 Filed 3-20-95; 8:45 am]

BILLING CODE 3410-02-W