USDA considers redistricting South Texas Onion Marketing Order

The USDA is seeking public input on modifying the membership structure of the South Texas Onion Committee.

The proposed action would consolidate the geographic districts under the marketing order from two districts to one and reapportion committee membership, according to a news release.

Over the past few years, the number of onion producers and handlers in South Texas has decreased significantly, which has created an imbalance in committee representation between the two districts, the release said. The committee says this justifies consolidating the districts and reapportioning all membership to a single district, ensuring more equitable representation, and creating more opportunity for members to serve.

The proposed rule for this action was published in the Federal Register on April 8. USDA is accepting public comments on the proposal until May 8 this year.

More information about the marketing order regulating the handling of South Texas onions is available on the 959 South Texas Onions page on the USDA Agricultural Marketing Service website.