The Board of Agriculture strongly supports the recommendations of the Cranberry Marketing Committee in its recommendations that the allotment for marketable cranberries in the 2001-2002 crop year be established at 67 percent. We further support the exemption for fresh and organically grown cranberries.
Cranberries make up a significant portion of New Jersey's agricultural industry.
With the industry facing the economic downslide as it has over the past several years, it is imperative that every effort be made to help stabilize the marketplace. We believe that the Cranberry Marketing Committee considered all the relevant factors and circumstances and determined, in their recommendations, that the 33 percent cutback in cranberry production would be the best course of action for the industry. We anticipate that when all facts are weighed carefully, you will also come to the same conclusion. The future of New Jersey's and perhaps even the nation's cranberry industry will be affected by this rule, once adopted. We urge you to promptly enact the recommendations of the committee for the well being of this very vital industry.