The U.S. Highbush Blueberry Council announced in a news release the council is seeking nominations to fill eight state member and alternate positions for the 2023–25 term. The nomination period begins March 28 and closes April 29.

Eligible producer nominees are those who produced 2,000 pounds or more of highbush blueberries in the United States from Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, 2021. Council members and alternates are allowed to serve a maximum of two consecutive terms.

Nominations for seven state positions representing California, Georgia, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Oregon and Washington will be completed by their respective state blueberry councils and commissions. Nominations are to be received directly from growers in Florida.

Potential nominees are required to complete a nomination application and forward their application to the USHBC office no later than April 29. Nomination applications will be mailed directly to Florida growers. Applications are also available online at: ushbc.blueberry.org/forms or can be requested by contacting the USHBC office by phone at: 916-983-0111 or by fax at: 916-983-9022.

USHBC programs and meetings are open to all individuals. The council prohibits discrimination in all of its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, genetic information, parental status and marital or family status. It is USHBC policy that membership on the council and its committees reflect the diversity of individuals served by its programs. To accomplish this objective, the USHBC will strive for representation of growers and other industry participants from diverse backgrounds and strongly encourages women, minorities and persons with disabilities to seek nominations to the USHBC and to participate in council and USHBC committee activities.

—by Jonelle Mejica