The New Mexico Chile Association (NMCA) and the Western Growers Association have formed a strategic collaboration, including a signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to work together on business matters and policy issues.

Under the agreement, NMCA members will also become WGA members. The MOU provides NMCA members access to WGA informational webinars, trade and commodity service expertise, H-2A labor services, and other services.

NMCA President Rick Ledbetter says the association faces similar challenges as WGA’s fresh produce growers, including water, immigration, trade, and food safety.

“We are confident that the reputation of Western Growers and the expertise of their staff based in California and Washington, D.C. will generate significant benefit and value for our members," Ledbetter says.

WGA President and Chief Executive Officer Tom Nassif believes adding New Mexico chile issues to the association’s crop portfolio is a good fit.

“Western Growers has long advocated for the needs of fresh produce growers, shippers, and processors in California and Arizona, and, more recently, Colorado. Today, we are proud to add New Mexico chile growers to our ranks, and look forward to working together to resolve the pressing concerns facing western agriculture.”

According to the NMCA website, the non-profit organization works for a prosperous New Mexico chile industry.  

WGA members and their workers provide over half the nation's fresh fruits, vegetables and tree nuts, including about half of the U.S.’ organic produce production.