Bruce Price 

 

Following graduation from Oklahoma State University with a degree in  Agronomy, Bruce Price began a storied career in the produce business.

His   first   job out of college was with the American Seed Trade Association, which   acquainted him with the developer of the seedless watermelon, Dr. O.J. Eigsti.
 

Soon After, Bruce became a seed grower, and part-owner of American   Seedless Watermelon Seed Corporation. In 1986, fifty percent of the company was sold to Sun World of California, and Bruce was named General Manager. Grower contracts were instituted, and seedless watermelons became a consumer favorite nationwide.

As a representative on the National Potato Promotion Board, Bruce was convinced that the commodity promotion system would help to reverse a twenty year decline in per capita consumption of watermelons.

Bruce also drafted a proposal to create the National Watermelon Promotion Board in 1983. Following an extensive vetting process with the Association’s leadership, legislation was introduced into the U.S. Congress, rule making with USDA was begun, and outreach meetings were held across the country.

Bruce gives much credit for the assistance, leadership and formidable clout of Mr. Buddy Leger ( Cordele, Ga) to get this deal done. Bruce served as an officer and Executive Committee member of the National Watermelon Association, and also with the Texas Chapter. He was elected by hi constituents and served as a State Senator in the Oklahoma Legislature from 1992 - 2004.

It is with great pride and thanks that we honor Bruce Price for his contributions to our Association, and to the watermelon industry. Job well done!