“We are very pleased and feel fortunate that George has agreed to become part of the team at CFFA,” McClarty continued. “George's background both as a farmer and Congressman should ensure real leadership value for the membership; his timely appointment as president should mean a seamless and effectual transition.”

Bedwell reflected on his tenure with CFFA as a positive and rewarding experience.

“Working for the members of the California Fresh Fruit Association, as well as all of California agriculture, has been the most rewarding and, considering the multitude of issues facing growers and shippers, challenging experience of my career,” said Bedwell.

“Leaving CFFA is extremely difficult but I feel I can now take what I have learned to further enhance a premier leadership development program that I believe will be imperative to the successful future of California agriculture.”

The effective date for the transition is currently scheduled for Aug. 1.

The California Fresh Fruit Association is a voluntary public policy association that represents growers, packers, and shippers of California table grape, blueberry, kiwi, pomegranate and deciduous tree fruit communities.

CFFA serves as a public policy representative for these growers, shippers and packers, on issues at both the state and federal levels.

www.cafreshfruit.org