National Watermelon Association

10/01/2026

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09/30/2026

🎙 EPISODE 2

In this episode of Inside the Melon: The Watermelon Industry Podcast, host George Szczepanski, executive director of the National Watermelon Association, welcomes NWA lobbyist Bob Redding for a look at how decisions in Washington can directly affect watermelon growers.

Redding shares his path from political campaigns and congressional staffing to agricultural advocacy and highlights recent progress on key industry priorities, particularly labor and the H-2A program. He discusses changes involving the adverse effect wage rate and worker housing, efforts to codify reforms through legislation, and why continued bipartisan education and direct engagement from growers are critical to creating lasting change. Redding also explains what advocacy looks like behind the scenes, why growers’ firsthand experiences can make a difference with lawmakers and staff, and what he’s watching next, including specialty crop programs, export promotion funding, USMCA, nutrition policy and ongoing H-2A processing challenges.

You can listen to the entire podcast using this link, or wherever you stream your podcasts:
https://nwapodcast.podbean.com/e/a-voice-in-washington-policy-progress-and-priorities-for-watermelon-growers/

09/17/2026

09/13/2026

🍉🦏 we love seeing friends of all shapes and sizes enjoying some high quality watermelon!

09/11/2026

Where were you when the world stopped turning?

Always remember. Never forget.

09/07/2026

🍉🇺🇸 This Labor Day, we’re celebrating the hands behind the harvest.

From the first seed planted to the watermelon that makes its way to your table, the watermelon industry is powered by hardworking people who show up, get their hands dirty, and keep our farms and communities growing.

Today, we honor the farmers, farm families, field workers, truck drivers, packers, sellers, and everyone in between who works tirelessly to bring one of summer’s sweetest traditions to families across the country. ❤️

The work isn’t always easy, but it’s work worth celebrating. We’re proud to be part of an industry built on hard work, family, and a love for the land.

Happy Labor Day to all those who work hard to keep America growing! 🇺🇸🍉

AmericanAgriculture SupportFarmers FromFarmToTable AgLife HardWorkPaysOff

08/24/2026

Another fantastic promotion for Queen Katelyn!

08/17/2026

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