Communications

The Edisto Research and Education Center (Edisto REC) of Clemson University will host its annual Watermelon and Vegetable Field Day on July 9 in Blackville, South Carolina. This event will bring together growers, researchers, extension specialists, and industry partners for a comprehensive day focused on the latest advancements in watermelon production. Topics to be covered…

The House Agriculture Committee Chairman Glenn “GT” Thompson has released draft legislation addressing agricultural labor issues, building upon recommendations developed by the bipartisan House Agriculture Labor Working Group. The proposal reflects many of the priorities specialty crop agriculture has been advocating for in recent years, including efforts to improve workforce stability and address challenges within…

The Details: $225 Per Acre for Watermelon Growers The USDA has unveiled the Assistance for Specialty Crop Farmers (ASCF) Program, providing approximately $1.625 billion in assistance to specialty crop producers nationwide. Watermelon is included in Tier 2 of the program, with eligible growers receiving payments of $225 per acre based on 2025 planted acreage reported…

NWA will once again participate in the IFPA Washington Conference in Washington, D.C., with staff, industry leaders, and watermelon queens will represent the watermelon industry throughout the event. The Washington Conference offers an important opportunity for produce industry members to engage directly with policymakers on issues impacting agriculture, labor, trade, transportation, and the broader fresh…

NWA President Jordan Carter Honored as a “Woman of Influence in the Food Industry”     NWA congratulates Jordan Carter on being recognized as a 2026 “Woman of Influence in the Food Industry” by The Shelby Report. Jordan’s leadership within the watermelon industry and her work with Leger & Son exemplify the dedication, professionalism, and…

The Specialty Crop Research Initiative (SCRI) is currently recruiting reviewers for their 2026 cycle. SCRI provides nearly $175 million of funding each year for research and extension initiatives to address the critical needs of the specialty crop industry. This is your chance to have a say in which proposals are meeting the most urgent needs…

The Alliance for Food and Farming (AFFF) recently published a response to misleading claims linking fruits and vegetables to cancer risk, reinforcing the importance of science-based communication around produce safety and nutrition.  The NWA is proud to financially support the work of AFFF and its efforts to counter misinformation that can undermine consumer confidence in…

Last week, NWA staff traveled  across Florida to visit with members, researchers, and industry partners, with a focus on the future of the watermelon industry.  Their emphasis was on the innovation, relationships, and leadership that will shape the industry in the coming years.     The trip included visits to field trials hosted by Enza…

The National Watermelon Association joins the Specialty Crop Farm Bill Alliance in applauding House passage of H.R. 7567, the Farm, Food, and National Security Act of 2026. This marks an important step forward for specialty crop agriculture, with key provisions aimed at strengthening the competitiveness of producers across the country. We encourage the Senate to…

NWA has created a new promotional piece for members to connect with retail managers interested in hosting an appearance by the National Watermelon Queen. This piece is specifically designed for retail settings highlights how these appearances drive store traffic, increase shopper engagement, create in-store excitement through sampling, customer interaction, and family-friendly experiences. It also outlines…

As the season begins, labor continues to be one of the most important—and complex—areas for our members. NWA works closely with our labor counsel, Shawn Packer of JPH Law Firm, to help navigate H-2A requirements, regulatory changes, and day-to-day compliance questions. This is a key member benefit, and we encourage you to take advantage of it….