USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council (USADPLC)
Organization Overview
The USA Dry Pea & Lentil Council (USADPLC) is a prominent non-profit agricultural trade association based in Moscow, Idaho, United States. Established in 1965, USADPLC represents the interests of U.S. pulse growers, processors, exporters, and associated industry stakeholders. The organization is dedicated to promoting the production, consumption, and trade of dry peas, lentils, and chickpeas—collectively known as pulse crops. USADPLC plays a pivotal role in advocating for policy reforms, facilitating global trade, supporting research and development, and educating the public on the nutritional and environmental benefits of pulses.
Core Business and Functions
USADPLC's core areas of focus include:
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Pulse Crops:
- Dry Peas
- Lentils
- Chickpeas
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Research & Development:
- Pulse breeding and variety trials.
- Studies on nutrition and health benefits of pulses.
- Crop management practices and sustainability initiatives.
- Development of new pulse-based products for diverse markets.
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Market Promotion:
- Trade show participation in key international events (e.g., Gulfood, SIAL, Foodex Japan).
- Exporter-importer matchmaking programs.
- Market access support for U.S. pulse exporters.
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Policy Advocacy:
- Federal Crop Insurance Reform for pulse crops.
- Farm program and crop insurance incentives for climate-smart commodities.
- Pulse Crop Health Initiative (PCHI) advocacy.
- Engagement with U.S. Congress and regulatory bodies to promote pulse-friendly policies.
Specialization and Core USP
USADPLC's unique value proposition lies in its comprehensive support across the pulse supply chain. The organization combines advocacy, research, and market development under one umbrella, offering its stakeholders:
- Access to cutting-edge research and data-driven insights on pulse crops.
- Representation in critical policy dialogues impacting the pulse sector.
- Global trade facilitation through established relationships with importers, governments, and industry bodies.
- Promotion of pulses as a sustainable, nutritious, and climate-resilient food solution.
Financial and Trade Impact
- U.S. Pulse Crop Exports (2023): Over $400 million in export value.
- Top Export Markets: India, China, Turkey, Mexico, Canada.
- Trade Events Supported: Participation in over 20 major international trade shows annually.
- Research Funding: USADPLC allocates a significant portion of its budget to research projects, with over $5 million invested in the Pulse Crop Health Initiative since its inception.
- Policy Achievements: Secured the inclusion of pulse crops in USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodities Initiative, enabling growers to access additional funding and technical support.
Target Stakeholders
USADPLC serves a diverse set of stakeholders, including:
- Pulse Growers: Farmers cultivating dry peas, lentils, and chickpeas across the U.S.
- Processors and Exporters: Companies engaged in cleaning, grading, packaging, and exporting pulses.
- International Importers and Distributors: Buyers and wholesalers in key markets such as South Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America.
- Research Institutions and Universities: Partners in breeding, agronomy, and nutrition studies.
- Government Agencies and Policymakers: Stakeholders in shaping agricultural policies and trade agreements.
Capabilities
USADPLC's capabilities include:
- Market Intelligence: Publication of comprehensive reports on pulse trade flows, market trends, and regulatory updates.
- Technical Expertise: Support on issues like sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) compliance, labeling requirements, and food safety standards.
- Global Networks: Collaborative partnerships with international trade associations, embassies, and government trade offices.
- Education and Outreach: Development of educational resources, cooking guides, and marketing materials to promote pulse consumption.
Certifications and Compliance
As a U.S. government-supported entity, USADPLC operates under strict compliance with federal funding regulations, ensuring transparency, accountability, and adherence to USDA guidelines. Its programs are aligned with the Foreign Agricultural Service’s (FAS) Market Access Program (MAP) and Foreign Market Development (FMD) program requirements.
Customer Testimonials
While individual testimonials are not prominently featured, USADPLC’s consistent engagement with over 1,000 stakeholders, positive feedback from trade partners, and sustained participation in major international trade shows reflect a high level of satisfaction and industry trust in their services.
Major Achievements
- Policy Advocacy: Successfully lobbied for the inclusion of pulses in the USDA’s Climate-Smart Commodities Program.
- Trade Development: Facilitated over $400 million in annual U.S. pulse exports.
- Research Leadership: Spearheaded the Pulse Crop Health Initiative, driving innovations in pulse breeding, nutrition research, and sustainability.
- Consumer Awareness: Led national campaigns promoting pulses as a healthy and sustainable protein source, contributing to increased pulse consumption in the U.S.
Note: All information is based on publicly available data as of May 2025.
