USDA Heeds Call from Schumer, Gillibrand to Buy Surplus Grape Products

Concord grape growers in Western New York and northwestern Pennsylvania have been extended a lifeline by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. On Monday, Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced that the USDA has heeded their call to purchase surplus grape product after Refresco cancelled contracts with more than 120 regional growers. During last week's press conference in the Town of Portland, Schumer explained what that would mean for local farmers...

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In an updated press release Tuesday morning, Schumer announced that the USDA will buy $20 million in surplus products. Schumer said local growers would face a triple threat if action wasn't taken...

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Schumer and Gillibrand both called the grape purchases a "win-win" for all sides because the industry would be held up, and the extra grapes will be used for domestic food assistance programs. In a press release, Gillibrand added, "I am thrilled that the USDA answered our call by enacting Section 32 of the Agricultural Adjustment Act to support Western New York's growers during this critical time."

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