LOADS FOR LEADERSHIP

The produce industry in Georgia is big.  We are the fourth largest state producing fresh fruits and vegetables with a farm gate value of over $1 Billion dollars.  Since 1996 when the Georgia Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association was established, the organization has become the recognized leader for fruit and vegetable growers in Georgia.  During these thirteen years, GFVGA has developed numerous membership programs and educational conferences for the benefit of Georgia fruit and vegetable growers.  In the past three years the Association has played a major role in securing research funds to improve production practices, initiated food safety training under the Georgia GAP Program and provided grower education on new federal regulations from agencies such as EPA, FDA, DOL and others.

Plain and simple – these program and activities are expensive.  In 2009, GFVGA spent over $100,000 in staff time, travel expenses, conference calls and other costs to develop and coordinate these industry activities.  Unfortunately membership dues generate less than $50,000 of income to the association each year.  To support GFVGA continuing the Association’s leadership role in this area, the grower members have committed to donate pallets of product to the association so the produce can be sold our retail customers.

GFVGA has organized ‘LOADS FOR LEADERSHIP’ to keep GFVGA a leader in support fruit and vegetable growers.  GFVGA will offer mixed loads of onions, vegetables, blueberries and blackberries that can be sold to our retail customers for a mid June or late October delivery.  ‘LOADS FOR LEADERSHIP’ needs our retail partners participation.  Let us know what type of load you would like to buy (and the product specs) and we’ll secure the grower donors and guarantee a quality product!!

To participate in Loads For Leadership, please fill out a GROWER AGREEMENT and contact Rebecca Smith, rsmith@asginfo.net

Product available to build a load:

Beans                    Bell Pepper           Squash                  Cucumber             Carrots

Eggplant               Vidalia Onion     Blueberries         Blackberries