U S Apple Association

Advocacy and Government Relations: The Association represents the U.S. apple industry's interests on federal policy issues by voicing the industry's views to Congress and the Executive Branch on issues including: labor, environmental issues, food safety, trade, research, and regulations. We also work to resolve industry concerns by: working with the Agriculture Department, U.S. Trade Representative, Environmental Protection Agency and Food and Drug Administration; activating a network of apple advocates nationwide to support legislative goals; and working with other produce and agricultural groups in coalitions to achieve mutual interests.

Membership and Industry Information: We are a member-driven association that represents all segments of the apple industry, including growers, packers, shippers, marketers, processors, suppliers, state/regional associations and other businesses engaged in the industry.We serve as a resource center for the apple industry and key audiences by providing information to members, media, federal government and the general public. Some of these are: Apple Bites, a bi-weekly summary of news for and about the apple industry; Market News, crop storage and movement reports published from November through June; and the Apple Crop Outlook & Marketing Conference and other meeting/networking opportunities.

Communications & Health Initiatives: The Association's communications program supports the organization's advocacy efforts, while creating and strengthening signature health and consumer initiatives, such as Apples4Ed. Harnessing the latest in apple-related nutrition research, the organization educates consumers about the many health benefits of eating apples. The Association supports scientific research that promotes a better understanding of the short and long-term benefits of apple consumption as part of a healthy lifestyle.

Young Apple Leaders Program: US Apple invests in our industry's future with leadership opportunities for our rising members. Young Apple Leaders learn about the federal regulatory and legislative issues that impact the apple industry, how to advocate for their industry, and connect with apple leaders from around the country at special events.Each year, a new class of Young Apple Leaders is selected to participate in US Apple's annual Capitol Hill Day in Washington, DC, and engage in networking events with key influencers and other apple leaders.

TreeTAC: In 2001, the Association and Northwest Horticultural Council (NHC) formed the Tree-Fruit Technical Advisory Council (TreeTAC), a coalition of expert scientists from the top-producing states charged with safeguarding the U.S. tree fruit industry from potential pest and disease threats. Its experts work to ensure that potential imports of tree fruits pose no insect or disease threats to the U.S. domestic production areas or food safety concerns to the U.S. markets. The Association is an integral part of TreeTAC, jointly administering the group with NHC. The Association's Board designates funds for the administration of TreeTAC and funding of its projects.