[Federal Register Volume 59, Number 65 (Tuesday, April 5, 1994)] [Unknown Section] [Page 0] From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] [FR Doc No: 94-8032] [[Page Unknown]] [Federal Register: April 5, 1994] ----------------------------------------------------------------------- DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE Agricultural Marketing Service 7 CFR Parts 916 and 917 [Docket No. FV94-916-1-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 expanding the regulatory periods and by modifying the grade, maturity, size, container, and pack requirements for fresh shipments of these fruits, beginning with 1994 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, 1994. Comments which are received by May 5, 1994 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: Gary D. Rasmussen, 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) 720-5331; 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 producers 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 service firms are defined as those whose annual receipts are less than $3,500,000. A majority of these handlers and producers may be classified as small entities. The Nectarine Administrative Committee (NAC) recommended that the handling requirements for California nectarines be revised, and the Peach Commodity Committee (PCC) recommended that the handling requirements for California peaches be revised. 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. These 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. Regulatory Periods (Nectarines) Under Sec. 916.350, California Nectarine Container and Pack Regulation (7 CFR 916.350), fresh nectarine shipments are regulated by container and pack during the period April 15 through October 31 each year. Under Sec. 916.356, California Nectarine Grade and Size Regulation (7 CFR 916.356, as amended at 58 FR 8534, February 16, 1993, and 58 FR 29099, May 19, 1993), fresh nectarine shipments are also regulated by grade, maturity, and size, during the period April 15 through October 31 each year. These regulations are effective on a continuing basis subject to amendment, modification, or suspension by the Secretary. This rule amends paragraph (a) in Sec. 916.350 and paragraph (a) in Sec. 916.356 to change the regulatory periods in each of these sections to April 1 through October 31 each year, so that all nectarine shipments made each season are covered by these regulatory requirements. Correspondingly, paragraph (a)(7) of Sec. 916.356 is revised to change the beginning date of the regulatory requirements to April 1 from April 15 each year. Handlers ship fresh nectarines during the April 1--April 15 period when the harvest season begins early. The NAC unanimously recommended this change. 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 (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 916.350 by modifying Table 1 to specify weight-count standards for early-season and mid-season nectarine varieties, and adding a new Table 2 to specify weight-count standards for late-season nectarine varieties. The NAC recommended these revised container marking requirements for nectarines after a comprehensive review of the appropriate size pack-count relationships between the tray-pack containers and loose- filled or tight-filled containers for all nectarine varieties. The revised provisions more precisely reflect the characteristics of different varieties of fruit during the course of the season. This rule also revises Sec. 916.350 by adding a proviso to paragraph (a)(4)(iv), and revises Sec. 916.356 by redesignating current paragraph (b) as (c) and adding a new paragraph (b) to that section. These revisions specify the procedure to be used in determining whether nectarines meet the minimum size requirements specified for each size category in this section when applying the 16-pound sample requirements. Under this procedure, a sample consisting of one-half of the number of fruit specified for a 16-pound sample for a particular size category shall be used, provided such sample weighs at least 8 pounds. When one-half the specified number of fruit in a sample results in a number ending with one-half a fruit, the smaller full number of fruit is used to determine the sample weight. If a sample fails with respect to minimum size requirements on the basis of an 8-pound sample, a full 16-pound sample must be used to determine if the fruit meets minimum size requirements. The NAC recommended this sampling procedure change after determining that the size of nectarines could be adequately determined by using an 8-pound sample in most instances, and finding that application of this procedure would reduce inspection time and inspection costs. Maturity Requirements (Nectarines) Section 916.356 specifies maturity guides for fresh nectarines in paragraph (a)(1)(i), including Table 1, for fruit being inspected and certified as meeting the maturity requirements for ``well matured'' fruit. Such maturity guides (e.g., color chips) are specified in Table 1 of Sec. 916.356 for nectarines. This rule revises Table 1 of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of Sec. 916.356 for nectarines to add maturity guides for 18 nectarine varieties and to change the maturity guide for two nectarine varieties. The NAC recommended these maturity guide changes for these nectarine 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 (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 seven nectarine varieties that were produced in commercially significant quantities of more than 10,000 packages for the first time during the 1993 season. Paragraph (a)(3) is revised to include the May Kist variety; and paragraph (a)(6) of Sec. 916.356 is revised to include the Arctic Rose, Del Rio Rey, Kay Diamond, Late Red Jim, Prima Diamond, and Red Glen varieties. This rule also revises Sec. 916.356 to remove five 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 1993 season. Paragraph (a)(4) of that section is revised to remove the Apache and Early May Grande nectarine varieties; and paragraph (a)(6) is revised to remove the Nectarine #4, Tasty Free, and 9-86-04-87 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. This rule also lowers the minimum size requirement for the Zee Grand variety by permitting as many as 88 nectarines to be packed in a lug box rather than 84 nectarines, and as many as 83 nectarines when packed otherwise rather than 75 nectarines. This is accomplished by reassigning that variety to paragraph (a)(4) from paragraph (a)(5) in Sec. 916.356. The NAC recommended this change based on a more accurate evaluation of this variety's sizing and maturity characteristics. Further, in Sec. 916.356, paragraphs (a)(6)(i) and (a)(9)(i) are revised to permit as many as 84 nectarines to be packed in a No. 22D standard lug box if they are ``well matured'', and paragraphs (a)(6)(ii) and (a)(9)(ii) are revised to permit as many as 75 nectarines in a 16-pound sample if they are ``well matured''. These changes permit late-season nectarine varieties to be shipped to the fresh market at a slightly smaller size than in past seasons, if they meet the higher ``well matured'' maturity standard. The higher maturity standard is important for such smaller size fruit, because it will assure that the smaller fruit is of acceptable maturity and quality to be shipped to the fresh market in the interest of growers, handlers, and consumers. In addition, this rule changes the minimum size requirements for several varieties of nectarines packed in loose-filled and tight-filled containers by revising the count-size for nectarines specified in paragraphs (a)(2)(ii), (a)(3)(ii), (a)(4)(ii), (a)(5)(ii), (a)(7)(ii), and (a)(8)(ii). These size changes correspond to the weight-count changes made in column 2 of both Table 1 for early-season and mid- season nectarine varieties, and Table 2 for late-season nectarine varieties cited in paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 916.350. 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. Regulatory Periods (Peaches) Under Sec. 917.442, California Peach Container and Pack Regulation (7 CFR 917.442), fresh California peach shipments are regulated by container and during the period April 15 through November 23 each year. Under Sec. 917.459, California Peach Grade and Size Regulation (7 CFR 917.459, as amended at 58 FR 32591, June 11, 1993, and 58 FR 43499, August 17, 1993), fresh California peach shipments are also regulated by grade, maturity, and size during the period April 15 through November 23 each year. These regulations are effective on a continuing basis subject to amendment, modification, or suspension by the Secretary. This rule amends paragraph (a) in Sec. 917.442 and paragraph (a) in Sec. 917.459 to change the regulatory periods in each of these sections to April 1 through November 23 each year, so that all peach shipments made each season are covered by these regulatory requirements. Correspondingly, paragraph (b) of Sec. 917.459 is revised to change the beginning date of the regulatory requirements to April 1 from April 15 each year. Handlers ship fresh peaches during the April 1-April 15 period when the harvest season begins early. The PCC unanimously recommended this change. 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 Table 1 to specify weight-count standards for early-season and mid-season peach varieties, and adding a new Table 2 to specify weight-count standards for late- season peach varieties. The PCC recommended these revised container marking requirements 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 all peach varieties. The revised provisions more precisely reflect the characteristics of different varieties of fruit during the course of the season. This rule also revises Sec. 917.442 by adding a proviso to paragraph (a)(4)(iv), and revises Sec. 917.459 by redesignating current paragraph (d) as (e) and adding a new paragraph (d) to that section. These revisions specify the procedure to be used in determining whether peaches meet the minimum size requirements specified for each size category in this section when applying the 16-pound sample requirement. Under this procedure a sample consisting of one-half of the number of fruit specified for a 16-pound sample for a particular size category shall be used, provided such sample weighs at least 8 pounds. When one- half the specified number of fruit in a sample results in a number ending with one-half a fruit, the smaller full number of fruit is used to determine the sample weight. If a sample fails with respect to minimum size requirements on the basis of an 8-pound sample, a full 16- pound sample must be used to determine if the fruit meets the minimum size requirements. The PCC recommended this sampling procedure change after determining that the size of peaches could be adequately determined by using an 8-pound sample in most instances, and finding that application of this procedure would reduce inspection time and inspection costs. Grade Requirements (Peaches) Section 917.459 specifies grade requirements for peaches in paragraph (a)(1), requiring peaches shipped fresh to meet the requirements of the U.S. No. 1 grade. This rule revises paragraph (a)(1) of Sec. 917.459 to provide an additional 25 percent tolerance for fruit damaged by open sutures, but not seriously damaged, in addition to the 10 percent general lot tolerance currently permitted under the U.S. No. 1 grade. The PCC recommended this change to permit handlers to ship peaches with additional amounts of open sutures. Open sutures are not considered to be a serious grade defect since they affect only the appearance of the fruit. The open suture condition occurs infrequently in peaches and is most likely due to unusual weather and climatic conditions. However, this condition can cause considerable economic loss to growers when it does occur, because it sometimes affects a large portion of their crop. Maturity Requirements (Peaches) Section 917.459 specifies maturity guides 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 guides (e.g., color chips) are specified in Table 1 of Sec. 917.459 for peaches. This rule revises Table 1 of paragraph (a)(1)(i) of Sec. 917.459 for peaches to add maturity guides for 19 peach varieties and to change the maturity guide for one peach variety. The PCC recommended these maturity guide 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 by redesignating current paragraph (a)(6) as paragraph (a)(3) and current paragraphs (a)(3), (a)(4), and (a)(5) as paragraphs (a)(4), (a)(5), and (a)(6), respectively, so that the size regulations are in sequential order. This rule also revises Sec. 917.459 to establish variety-specific size requirements for five peach varieties that were produced in commercially significant quantities of more than 10,000 packages for the first time during the 1993 season. In Sec. 917.459 redesignated paragraph (a)(5) is revised to include the Crimson Lady and Rich May peach varieties; and redesignated paragraph (a)(6) is revised to include the Fancy Lady, Snow Ball, and Sugar Lady peach varieties. This rule also revises Sec. 917.459 to remove four 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 1993 season. In Sec. 917.459 redesignated paragraph (a)(5) of Sec. 917.459 is revised to remove the Flavor Red peach variety; and redesignated paragraph (a)(6) is revised to remove the July Lady, Red Cal, and Redglobe peach varieties. 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. This rule also amends Sec. 917.459 by revising paragraph (b) to change the ending date of the regulatory requirements for the non- listed peach varieties referred to in that paragraph to June 30 from July 2, and paragraph (c) to change the beginning date of the regulatory requirements for the non-listed peach varieties referred to in that paragraph to July 1 from July 3. These changes reflect the sizing characteristics of such peach varieties. Further, in Sec. 917.459 redesignated paragraph (a)(6)(i) is revised to permit as many as 80 peaches to be packed in a No. 22D standard lug box if they are ``well matured'', and redesignated paragraph (a)(6)(iii) is revised to permit as many as 73 peaches in a 16-pound sample if they are ``well matured''. These changes permit certain late-season peach varieties to be shipped to the fresh market at a slightly smaller size than in past seasons, if they meet the higher ``well matured'' maturity standard. The higher maturity standard is important for such smaller size fruit, because it will assure that the smaller fruit is of acceptable maturity and quality to be shipped to the fresh market in the interest of growers, handlers, and consumers. In addition, this rule changes the minimum size requirements for several varieties of peaches packed in loose-filled and tight-filled containers by revising the count-size for peaches specified in paragraphs (a)(3)(iii), (a)(4)(iii), and (a)(5)(iii). These size changes correspond to the weight-count changes made in column 2 of both Table 1 for early-season and mid-season peach varieties, and Table 2 for late-season peach varieties cited in paragraph (a)(4)(iv) of Sec. 917.442. 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 first; (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 part 916 continues to read as follows: Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674. 2. Section 916.350 is amended by revising paragraphs (a) introductory text and (a)(4)(iv) to read as follows: Sec. 916.350 California Nectarine Container and Pack Regulation. (a) During the period beginning April 1 and ending October 31, no handler shall ship any package or container of any variety of nectarines except in accordance with the following terms and conditions: * * * * * (iv) The size of nectarines, when packed in loose-filled or tight- filled containers, shall be marked in accordance with the following Table 1 and Table 2 which specify the tray-pack size designation in Column A with the corresponding maximum number of nectarines in a 16- pound sample of each size of the fruit in Column B: Provided, That the following procedure shall be used in determining whether nectarines meet the minimum size requirements specified for each size category in this section applying the 16-pound sample. A sample consisting of one- half of the specified number of fruit for a particular size category shall be used, provided such sample weighs at least eight pounds. When one-half the specified number of fruit in a sample results in a number ending with one-half a fruit, the smaller full number of fruit shall be used to determine the sample weight. If a sample fails with respect to minimum size requirements on the basis of an 8-pound sample, a 16-pound sample shall be used to determine if the fruit meets the minimum size requirements. Table 1.--Weight-Count Standards for Nectarines Packed in Loose- or Tight-Filled Containers. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Column A\1\ Column B\2\ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 108........................................................ 100 96......................................................... 90 88......................................................... 83 84......................................................... 78 80......................................................... 76 72......................................................... 67 70......................................................... 60 64......................................................... 56 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. Table 2.--Weight-Count Standards for Nectarines Packed in Loose- or Tight-Filled Containers ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Column A\1\ Column B\2\ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 108........................................................ 92 96......................................................... 87 88......................................................... 78 84......................................................... 75 80......................................................... 67 72......................................................... 61 70......................................................... 56 64......................................................... 51 60......................................................... 46 56......................................................... 43 54......................................................... 39 50......................................................... 36 48......................................................... 33 42......................................................... 28 40......................................................... 26 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)(6)(ii) and (a)(9)(ii) of Sec. 916.356. * * * * * 3. Section 916.356 is revised 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 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 1 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 1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Column B Column A variety maturity guide ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Alshir Red............................................... L\1\ 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 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ \1\Except not less than an aggregate area of 95 percent of the fruit surface shall meet the color standard established for the variety. Note: Consult with the Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service Supervisor for the maturity guides applicable to the varieties not listed above. (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. (2) Any package or container of May Glo variety nectarines through May 5 of each year, or April Glo, Aurelio Grand, Maybelle, Mayfire, or Royal Delight variety nectarines, unless: (i) Such nectarines, 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 a standard pack, not more than 108 nectarines in the lug box; or (ii) Such nectarines, when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(2)(i) of this section, are of a size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the nectarines in the package or container, contains not more than 100 nectarines. (3) Any package or container of May Glo variety nectarines on or after May 6 of each year, or Earliglo, Early Diamond, or May Kist variety nectarines, unless: (i) Such nectarines, 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 a standard pack, not more than 96 nectarines in the lug box; or (ii) Such nectarines, when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(3)(i) of this section, are of a size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the nectarines in the package or container, contains not more than 90 nectarines. (4) Any package or container of Early May, Mike Grand, Grand Stan, June Brite, June Glo, May Grand, May Diamond, May Lion, Pacific Star, Red Delight, Rose Diamond, Sparkling May, Star Brite, Sunfre, or Zee Grand variety nectarines unless: (i) Such nectarines, 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 a standard pack, not more than 88 nectarines in the lug box; or (ii) Such nectarines, when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(4)(i) of this section, are of a size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the nectarines in the package or container, contains not more than 83 nectarines. (5) Any package or container of Red May variety nectarines unless: (i) Such nectarines, 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 a standard pack, not more than 84 nectarines in the lug box; or (ii) Such nectarines, when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(5)(i) of this section, are of a size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the nectarines in the package or container, contains not more than 78 nectarines. (6) Any package or container of Alshir Red, Alta Red, Arctic Rose, August Glo, August Red, Autumn Delight, Autumn Grand, 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, Independence, July Red, King Jim, Kay Diamond, Kism Grand, Late Le Grand, Late Red Jim, Le Grand, Mid Glo, Moon Grand, Niagara Grand, Prima Diamond, P-R Red, Red Diamond, Red Free, Red Glen, Red Jim, Red Lion, Rio Red, Royal Giant, Ruby Grand, Scarlet Red, September Grand, September Red, Son Red, Sparkling June, Sparkling Red, Spring Diamond, Spring Red, Summer Beaut, Summer Bright, Summer Diamond, Summer Fire, Summer Grand, Summer Lion, Summer Red, Summer Star, Sunburst, Sun Diamond, Sun Grand, Super Red, Super Star, Tasty Gold, Tom Grand, Zee Glo, 181-119, or 80P-1135 variety nectarines unless: (i) Such nectarines, 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 a standard pack, not more than 80 nectarines in the lug box or if the nectarines are ``well matured'' not more than 84 nectarines in the lug box. (ii) Such nectarines, when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(6)(i) of this section, are of a size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the nectarines in the package or container, contains not more than 67 nectarines or if the nectarines are ``well matured'' not more than 75 nectarines. (7) During the period April 1 through May 31 of each fiscal year, no handler shall handle any package or container of any variety of nectarines not specifically named in paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(4), (a)(5), or (a)(6) of this section unless: (i) Such nectarines, 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 a standard pack, not more than 96 nectarines in the lug box; or (ii) Such nectarines, when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(7)(i) of this section, are of a size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the nectarines in the package or container, contains not more than 90 nectarines. (8) During the period June 1 through June 30 of each fiscal period, no handler shall handle any package or container of any variety of nectarines not specifically named in paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(4), (a)(5), or (a)(6) of this section unless: (i) Such nectarines, 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 a standard pack, not more than 88 nectarines in the lug box; or (ii) Such nectarines, when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(8)(i) of this section, are of a size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the nectarines in the package or container, contains not more than 83 nectarines. (9) During the period July 1 through October 31 of each fiscal period, no handler shall handle any package or container of any variety of nectarines not specifically named in paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(4), (a)(5), or (a)(6) of this section unless: (i) Such nectarines, 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 a standard pack, not more than 80 nectarines in the lug box or if the nectarines are ``well matured'' not more than 84 nectarines in the lug box; or (ii) Such nectarines, when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(9)(i) of this section, are of a size that a 16-pound sample, representative of the nectarines in the package or container, contains not more than 67 nectarines or if the nectarines are ``well matured'' not more than 75 nectarines. (b) The following procedure shall be used in determining whether nectarines meet the minimum size requirements specified for each size category in this section applying a 16-pound sample. A sample consisting of one-half of the number of fruit specified for a 16-pound sample for a particular size category shall be used, provided such sample weighs at least eight pounds. When one-half the specified number of fruit in a sample results in a number ending with one-half a fruit, the smaller full number of fruit shall be used to determine the sample weight. If a sample fails with respect to minimum size requirements on the basis of an 8-pound sample, a 16-pound sample shall be used to determine if the fruit meets the minimum size requirements. (c) As used herein, ``U.S. No. 1'', ``mature'', and ``standard pack'', mean the same as defined in the United States Standards for Grades of Nectarines [7 CFR 51.3145 through 51.3160]; and ``No. 22D standard lug box'' means the same as defined in section 1380.19 (17) of the ``Regulations of the California Department of Food and Agriculture''. ``Well matured'' means a condition distinctly more advanced than ``mature''. PART 917--FRESH PEARS AND PEACHES GROWN IN CALIFORNIA 1. The authority citation for 7 CFR part 917 continues to read as follows: Authority: 7 U.S.C. 601-674. 2. Section 917.442 is amended by revising paragraphs (a) introductory text and (a)(4)(iv) to read as follows: Sec. 917.442 California Peach Container and Pack Regulation. (a) During the period beginning April 1 and ending November 23, no handler shall ship any package or container of any variety of peaches except in accordance with the following terms and conditions: * * * * * (iv) The size of peaches, when packed in loose-filled or tight- filled containers, shall be marked in accordance with the following Table 1 and Table 2 which specify the tray-pack size designation in Column A with the corresponding maximum number of peaches in a 16-pound sample of each size of the fruit in Column B: Provided, That the following procedure shall be used in determining whether peaches meet the minimum size requirements specified for each size category in this section applying the 16-pound sample. A sample consisting of one-half of the specified number of fruit for a particular size category shall be used, provided such sample weighs at least eight pounds. When one- half the specified number of fruit in a sample results in a number ending with one-half a fruit, the smaller full number of fruit shall be used to determine the sample weight. If a sample fails with respect to minimum size requirements on the basis of an 8-pound sample, a 16-pound sample shall be used to determine if the fruit meets the minimum size requirements. Table 1.--Weight-Count Standards for Peaches Packed in Loose or Tight- Filled Containers ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Column A\1\ Column B\2\ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 96......................................................... 96 88......................................................... 92 84......................................................... 85 80......................................................... 76 72......................................................... 68 70......................................................... 66 64......................................................... 56 60......................................................... 47 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)(iii), and (b)(3) of Sec. 917.459. Table 2.--Weight-Count Standards for Peaches Packed in Loose or Tight- Filled Containers ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Column A\1\ Column B\2\ ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 96......................................................... 96 88......................................................... 83 84......................................................... 79 80......................................................... 73 72......................................................... 64 70......................................................... 59 64......................................................... 53 60......................................................... 46 56......................................................... 45 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 Varieties Specified in Paragraphs (a)(6)(iii), and (c)(3) of Sec. 917.459. * * * * * 3. Section 917.459 is revised to read as follows: Sec. 917.459 California Peach Grade and Size Regulation. (a) During the period beginning April 1 and ending November 23, no handler shall ship: (1) Any lot or package or container of any variety of peaches unless such peaches meet the requirements of U.S. No. 1 grade: Provided, That an additional 25 percent tolerance shall be permitted for fruit with open sutures which are damaged, but not seriously damaged. The Federal or Federal-State Inspection Service shall make final determinations on maturity through the use of color chips or 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 1 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. 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 1 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.'' (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 1 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ 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............................................. G Crown Princess........................................... J 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 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. (2) Any package or container of Flordaprince variety peaches unless: (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 96 peaches in the box; or (ii) Such peaches in any container when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(2)(i) 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 96 peaches. (3) Any package or container of Goldcrest or Topcrest variety peaches unless: (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 88 peaches in the box; or (ii) Such peaches in any container when packed other than as specified in paragraph (a)(3)(i) 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 92 peaches. (4) Any package or container of any type of Morning Sun variety peaches unless: (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 (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 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 85 peaches. (5) Any package or container of Babcock, Crimson Lady, Crown Princess, David Sun, Early May Crest, First Lady, Flavorcrest, Golden Crest, Golden Lady, 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 Flame, Springcrest, Spring Lady, Summer Crest, or 50-178 variety of peaches unless: (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 80 peaches in the box; or (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 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)(5)(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 76 peaches. (6) Any package or container of Amber Crest, Angelus, August Sun, Autumn Crest, Autumn Gem, Autumn Lady, Belmont, Berenda Sun, Blum's Beauty, Cal Red, Carnival, Cassie, Champagne, Diamond Princess, Early Elegant Lady, Early O'Henry, Elegant Lady, Fairmont, Fairtime, Fancy Lady, Fay Elberta, Fire Red, Flamecrest, John Henry, June Pride, Kings Lady, Lacey, Late Ito Red, Mary Ann, O'Henry, Parade, Prima Gattie, Prima Lady, Rich Lady, Ryan Sun, Scarlet Lady, September Sun, Sierra Lady, Snow Ball, Sparkle, Sprague Last Chance, Sugar Lady, Summer Lady, Suncrest, Tra Zee, White Lady, or Zee Lady variety of peaches unless: (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 72 peaches in the lug box or if the peaches are ``well matured'' not more than 80 peaches in the lug box. (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 standard pack, not more than 65 peaches in the lug box. (iii) Such peaches in any container when packed other than as specified in paragraphs (a)(6) (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 64 peaches or if the peaches are ``well matured'' not more than 73 peaches. (b) During the period April 1 through June 30 of each fiscal period, no handler shall handle any package or container of any variety of peaches not specifically named in paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(4), (a)(5), or (a)(6) of this section unless: (1) 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 96 peaches in the box; or (2) 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 standard pack, not more than 65 peaches in the box; or (3) Such peaches in any container when packed other than as specified in paragraphs (b)(1) and (b)(2) 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 96 peaches. (c) During the period July 1 through October 31 of each fiscal period, no handler shall handle any package or container of any variety of peaches not specifically named in paragraphs (a)(2), (a)(3), (a)(4), (a)(5), or (a)(6) of this section unless: (1) 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 80 peaches in the box; or (2) 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 standard pack, not more than 65 peaches in the box; or (3) Such peaches in any container when packed other than as specified in paragraphs (c)(1) and (c)(2) 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 73 peaches. (d) The following procedure shall be used in determining whether peaches meet the minimum size requirements specified for each size category in this section applying a 16-pound sample. A sample consisting of one-half of the number of fruit specified for a 16-pound sample for a particular size category shall be used, provided such sample weighs at least eight pounds. When one-half the specified number of fruit in a sample results in a number ending with one-half a fruit, the smaller full number of fruit shall be used to determine the sample weight. If a sample fails with respect to minimum size requirements on the basis of an 8-pound sample, a 16-pound sample shall be used to determine if the fruit meets the minimum size requirements. (e) As used herein, ``U.S. No. 1'', ``mature'', and ``standard pack'', mean the same as defined in the United States Standards for Grades of Peaches (7 CFR 51.1210 through 51.1223); and ``No. 22D standard lug box'' and ``No. 12B standard fruit (peach) box'' mean the same as defined in section 1380.19 (18) of the ``Regulations of the California Department of Food and Agriculture''. ``Well matured'' means a condition distinctly more advanced than ``mature''. Dated: March 29, 1994. Robert C. Keeney, Deputy Director, Fruit and Vegetable Division. [FR Doc. 94-8032 Filed 4-5-94; 8:45 am] BILLING CODE 3410-02-P