USApple aims to support apple growers

As any farmer knows, when it comes to export markets and trade, regulatory policy, labor regulation and combating misinformation are a challenge. American apple growers founded USApple to help them navigate some of the challenges that affect the industry. “We represent the 27,000 apple growers in the US,” said Jim Bair, USApple president and chief executive officer. “We try to focus like a laser on the things that we’re good at, and that would be government affairs here in Washington, crisis communication, public messaging about apples.” USApple is supported by growers, packers, processors and other groups in the apple industry to advocate for industry interests at the federal level, as well as working to provide accurate information about apples and apple production. Steve Smith, vice-president of marketing at Washington Fruit, Yakima, and the current USApple board chair, said the organization focuses on government affairs at the federal level.