Do you use a labor contractor for your worker needs on the farm or in the packing shed? Farm Labor Contractors (FLC) provide an invaluable service to many of you, and yet you ‘may’ have a responsibility according to the law. The article below is written and shared by Jason Resnick, Vice President and General Counsel at Western Growers Association. As Mr. Resnick concludes in the article, “producers that utilize labor contractors should have their FLC contracts reviewed by experienced employment and labor law counsel.”
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It has come to our attention that the Watermelon Industry MAY be targeted by Department of Labor inspectors during this domestic season. It is important that you understand what your rights and requirements are before such an event takes place. Below are eight (8) links to important information that may apply to your business on the farm or in the packing shed. Please take note of those areas that may apply to your business, and visit this website weekly for updates that may pertain to your labor needs, hiring and employment of workers.
Protection for Farm Workers
AG Employers under FLSA
Basic Information
Employment Relationship under FLSA
Federal Youth Employment Laws in Farm Jobs
Joint Employment and Independent Contractors
Migrant and Seasonal Ag Worker Protection Act
Overtime Pay Requirements of FLSA
FLSA Recordkeeping Requirements
FLSA Agriculture Poster
MSPA Poster

NWA announces grant awards for 2013 to pursue solutions for grower members.
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Following a series of public hearings, webinars and conference calls, the Food & Drug Administration has responded to numerous questions that have come forward for both of the proposed food safety rules.
Click here for the Produce Rule.
Click here for the Preventive Controls Rule.

The Food & Drug Administration released a proposed rule called the Standards for the Growing, Harvesting, Packing and Holding of Produce for Human Consumption (commonly referred to as the Produce Rule). The public comment period is scheduled to expire on May 16, 2013. The proposed rule, fact sheets, and two risk assessments that were developed as a basis of the proposed rule are included on the Food Safety page.
Click here for more information.

The Food & Drug Administration also released a proposed rule called the Current Good Manufacturing Practice and Hazard Analysis and Risk-Based Preventive Controls for Human Food (commonly referred to as the Preventive Controls Rule). The public comment period is scheduled to expire on May 16, 2013. The proposed rule and fact sheets are included on the Food Safety page
Click here for more information.

Finding consumer information about recalled food products grew a bit easier with the launch of a FDA website that compiles recall notices in a searchable table.
Click here for more.

A new PACA rule allows a buyers and sellers to extend payment past 30 days.
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Soil compaction and tire slippage are two major concerns that they know can affect yield and productivity.
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Spray recommendations for watermelon are based on the fact that "It is harder to cure disease than to prevent it".
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The National Watermelon Association is proud to release a complete Spanish-language version of our own watermelon food safety and traceability program called, "Commodity Specific Food Safety Guidelines for the Fresh Watermelon Supply Chain". 
Click HERE to read and download any or all portions of the program for your use.