| The National Watermelon Promotion Board (NWPB) has secured USDA approval for a 3-cent per hundredweight assessment increase, raising the total to 9 cents per hundredweight. The increase, split between producers, handlers, and importers, will fund expanded research, promotion, and education efforts to boost demand for watermelon. The new rate takes effect January 22, 2025, with an enhanced program launch planned for April 1, 2025, focused on retail and industry growth. |