Orlando, Fla.– On February 20-21, 2014, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) hosted their annual Agriculture Outlook Forum: “The Changing Face of Agriculture”, where general session topics focused on the diversity and future of agriculture, as well as women in the produce industry. The National Mango Board’s (NMB) Jean Sapp, who was recently appointed to the board as domestic mango producer, was honored to be invited by USDA officials to attend the event and represent the board.
As an appointed member who participates in the decision making opportunities at the NMB, Jean represents fellow domestic mango producers alongside other representatives of each level of the mango supply chain. The board consists of eighteen members including eight importers, seven foreign producers and two domestic producers, as well as a first handler. Members represent industry members from the U.S., Mexico, Peru, Ecuador, Brazil, and Guatemala who come together to build programs and are dedicated to the mission, goals and objectives of the NMB; making decisions based on the welfare of the industry as a whole. “We are a very diverse group of members at the NMB and we each know the importance of having our voices heard for those we represent in the mango industry,” says Sapp of Lehigh Acres, Fla. “Having the best interest of the mango industry is always a priority and we work together to achieve that goal.”
During USDA’s Agriculture Outlook Forum, the general sessions and seminars provided insights on different areas of agriculture and challenges in creating diversity and increasing interest in farming in younger generations. “This event was a great opportunity for me to learn more about USDA’s efforts in increasing diversity, especially with younger generations and women in the produce industry. The average age of farmers continues to rise and it’s important to educate and engage younger peers to take part in agriculture; in addition to encouraging even more women to participate in leadership roles.”
The NMB is currently holding nominations and calling for leaders in the mango industry to step forward and participate in the nominations process to become a board member. The NMB is seeking nominations for six board member positions with three-year terms beginning January 2015. The positions include three importers from District II, one domestic producer and two foreign producers. For more information, please visit www.mango.org/nominations.
About National Mango Board
The National Mango Board is the national promotion and research organization supported by assessments from both domestic and imported mangos. The Mango Board conducts education and promotion campaigns that drive awareness and increase consumption of fresh mangos in at-home and restaurant settings. One cup of mango is only 100 calories, an excellent source of vitamins A and C, a good source of fiber and an amazing source of tropical flavor.
Mango consumption per capita has increased 53 percent since 2005 to an estimated 2.87 pounds per year in 2013. Mango import volume for 2013 was 935 million pounds. Learn more at mango.org.
Source: National Mango Board
