The recent freezing weather in the San Joaquin Valley has prompted agricultural commissions in California including Kern, Tulare and Fresno counties to request citrus handlers to wait 48 hours before packing/shipping fruit harvested on or after December 11, 2013. This will allow staff an opportunity to make assessments on the fruit. This request came after consultation with agricultural commissioners in other citrus producing counties.

Ruben J. Arroyo, Kern County Agricultural Commissioner/Sealer, sent a letter to citrus handlers in the region, making a request for the 48 hour holding period, also stating that packers may do their own sampling prior to asking for an official sample by commission staff. He also notes that every effort will be made to accommodate packing schedules.

The letter also stated that if fruit is packed and shipped prior to having an official sample taken at the time of packing, a Notice of Violation will be issued and further action may be taken.

Growers tell AndNowUKnow that when temperatures get low enough, with sufficient duration to cause fruit damage, this is a step most handlers will typically take on their own without request. Other growers are waiting another 5-7 days at this point to harvest, as the freeze damage will then be more apparent.

Growers expect the commission may make a statement later on today concerning the 48 hour hold on citrus prior to packing.

Stay tuned to AndNowUKnow as more information becomes available.