Annual Report -2- 



of the apple, potato and "native" labeling and grading laws, 

 collection of statistical marketing data, and acting as a clear- 

 ing house for all press releases issued by the Department. The 

 latest monthly crop estimates of apples, potatoes, onions and 

 cranberries, as received by teletype by the TJ.S.D.A. are pre- 

 pared and mailed to interested parties. 



The Division is responsible for the release of all publicity 

 through radio, television, press releases and meetings, includ- 

 ing special promotional functions, tours of markets and agricul- 

 tural growing areas to aid the better movement of locally-grown 

 fruits, vegetables and flowers. 



Detailing our many marketing services, of major importance 

 is our Federal-State Inspection Service. For 50 continuous year£5 

 all state agriculture departments in the nation have cooperated 

 with the U.S. Department of Agriculture to provide shipping point 

 fruit and vegetable inspections for their own state's farm prod- 

 ucts. 



Massachusetts has been one of the leaders in providing 

 this service for financially interested parties, which has proved 

 beneficial in creating better marketing conditions and final 

 products to growers, packers, distributors, receivers and con- 

 sumers. 



During World War I, as markets increased in size and dis- 

 tance from growing areas, it was realized that some common bond 

 of understanding as to the quality of a particular fresh product 

 was necessary between buyer and seller in order to effectively 

 maintain good marketing conditions. •> 



