The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Secretary Tom Vilsack has recently appointed nine members and 10 alternate members to serve on the U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council (USHBC). These appointees will play a crucial role in shaping the future of the blueberry industry in the United States. The council, which comprises 21 members, includes 12 growers (four regional representatives and eight representatives from the top eight highbush blueberry-producing states), four importers, four exporters, and one public member. Each council member is accompanied by an alternate member, both of whom are appointed to three-year terms and can be reappointed for an additional three-year term.
The newly appointed council members are a diverse group representing various regions and sectors of the blueberry industry. Nathan Sakuma from Washington will serve as the Western Region Member, Katelyn Craig from Michigan as the Midwest Region Member, Brandon J. Raso from New Jersey as the Northeast Region Member, and Jody A. McPherson from North Carolina as the Southern Region Member. The Public Member position will be held by William O. Cline from North Carolina, while Gonzalo de Elizalde from California, Juan Pablo Vogt from Chile, Daniel J. Bustamante from Peru, and Miguel Méndez from Mexico will serve as Importer and Exporter Members.
In addition to the council members, alternate members have also been appointed to support and contribute to the council’s work. These alternates include Anne Krahmer-Steinkamp, Kara Lynn-Hartmann Laraway, Alec Arena, Dan J. Register, Patricio R. Munoz, Bonnie Lundblad, Ruy Barbosa, José Antonio Castro, and Raul Gonzalez Chavez. Their expertise and perspectives will be valuable assets in advancing the goals of the USHBC.
Kasey Cronquist, the President of the USHBC, emphasized the importance of the newly appointed council members in navigating the challenges and opportunities facing the blueberry industry. He noted that the industry is at a critical juncture and that the united efforts of the council members are essential to ensuring its continued success.
Since its establishment in 1966, the USHBC has played a vital role in supporting the blueberry industry through industry-funded research and promotion activities. The council, along with 21 other similar boards, operates under the oversight of the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS), which ensures fiscal accountability and program integrity. These boards enable agricultural industries to collaborate, pool resources, and develop new markets, thereby strengthening the industry as a whole.
The appointed council members and alternates bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the USHBC, positioning the council to address the evolving needs of the blueberry industry. Their diverse backgrounds and expertise will be instrumental in driving innovation, promoting growth, and ensuring the sustainability of the industry.
In conclusion, the appointment of the new members and alternates to the USHBC marks a significant milestone in the continued growth and development of the blueberry industry. Their dedication and commitment to advancing the industry will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the future of blueberry cultivation and consumption in the United States.