Friday, May 16, 1997

Perry notes deadline for Market Access applications

By J.T. Smith / Abilene Reporter-News

Companies interested in seeking export assistance for high-value ag products should apply to the Texas Department of Agriculture for Market Access Program funding by May 23.

Texas Ag Commissioner Rick Perry says that products must be marketed under a brand name to qualify.

MAP is a federal matching funds reimbursement export program for processors, packers, manufacturers, distributors, export agents, wholesalers, export-trading or management companies and farm cooperatives.

"The program opens a door for small to medium-size companies that would not otherwise be able to test the overseas market," Perry said.

MAP is administered by USDA's Foreign Agricultural Service and the Southern United States Trade Association (SUSTA). TDA is a SUSTA member.

Perry says companies receiving MAP funds in the past increased export sales an average of 24 percent compared with 10 percent for comparable U.S. food companies not in the program.

Reimbursable overseas market activities include advertising, retail, and other promotions and trade show participation.

Eligible products must be high-value foods or other agricultural products that are at least 50 percent U.S. agricultural origin by weight - excluding added water and packaging.

To apply for the program, call Dwight Roberts, TDA international marketing director, at (512) 463-7636, or Terry Ovalle, TDA international marketing specialist, at (512) 463-7469.

Mohair Council wrestles with priorities

Two Mohair Council of America officials testified last week before a seven-member board of the National Sheep Industry Center regarding where to spend $20 million authorized by Congress to benefit the sheep, goat, wool and mohair industries. The center is holding hearings throughout the nation.

The center can make low-interest loans to businesses using raw products from the industry. However, these loans must be repaid - thus, providing revolving funds for future use by various industry infrastructures.

Texas now has the lowest number of mohair-producing goats since 1923.

Pecan field day in Comanche County

The Comanche County Extension Commercial Horticulture Committee has planned an Early Season Pecan Management Field Day for May 21. It will assemble at Highway 16 and FM 2318 at Downing at 9:30 a.m.

From there, the group will leave for the Orchard Site down FM 2318.

The field day will feature extension specialists, and two continuing education units can be earned. To pre-register, call the extension service office at (915) 356-2539 in Comanche.