Michael Schadler, who brings extensive experience with representing growers, packers and shippers, will begin the role in September, succeeding Todd Fryhover who will retire this year.

Based on findings from its midseason grower and packer crop survey, the California Avocado Commission is eyeing a robust crop this year, with estimated volume to exceed 250 million pounds.

The Nogales, Ariz.-based grape grower and shipper says it has extended its year-round production through a partnership with Bakersfield, Calif.-based Niabell Farms.

The company says it plans to launch new innovations that will impact the fruit and vegetable market including new insecticides and herbicides as well as new hybrids and varieties.

California’s Westside melon deal should get underway by early July, as usual, and growers expect to provide their customers with ample supplies of tasty melons this summer.

The USDA’s Farm Labor Stabilization and Protection Pilot Program supports more than 177 unique agriculture operations and more than 11,000 workers.