(1) The initial allocation of equipment leasing money for 2004 will be distributed based upon documented annual average pounds of asparagus an approved handler/packer reported from 2001 through 2004.
Note: | If additional application cycles are needed to administer current and future equipment lease allocations and distributions, the department may adjust the initial four-year annual average production period (2001-2004). |
(2)(a) Unless the department, in consultation with the Washington asparagus commission, the Washington asparagus council and the asparagus industry at large, determines that the allocation formula be changed, all approved applicants will receive either a base amount of at least $75,000 for their initial 2004-program allocation or an amount adjusted to reflect an appropriate base for future program offerings.
(b) If the department does change the allocation formula, it will notify the Washington state asparagus industry and, specifically, Washington state asparagus handler/packers.
(3) The department has developed the following categories to help allocate the equipment lease program's initial 2004 offering:
Handler/Packer Categories* | Pounds of Asparagus Handled Annually |
Small | Less than 1,000,000 pounds |
Medium | 1,000,000 to 2,000,000 pounds |
Large | 2,000,001 to 5,000,000 pounds |
*Note: These categories could change. If they do, the department will notify asparagus handler/packers and the industry. |
[Statutory Authority: Chapters
15.04 and
34.05 RCW, 2004 c 276. WSR 05-14-049, § 16-730-050, filed 6/28/05, effective 7/29/05.]