Feb 6, 2017
Michigan producers approve blueberry research program

Michigan’s blueberry producers have approved a referendum establishing a Michigan Blueberry Research & Education Program. This program will be administered by a new Michigan Blueberry Commission, which will be comprised of seven Michigan blueberry producers appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder. The program will be fully funded by assessments on blueberries with a maximum assessment of up to three-tenths of a cent per pound of blueberries sold. The effective date is May 1. 

The program was proposed by blueberry producers to help improve the economic position and competitiveness of Michigan’s blueberry industry by supporting research. The goal for this program is to keep Michigan’s blueberry industry on the cutting edge of new technology, as well as to implement new research keeping the state’s farmers economically competitive in the growing world market. 

Of the 82 ballots received, 61 producers voted yes (74 percent), representing over 36 million pounds (73 percent); 21 producers voted no (26 percent), representing over 13 million pounds (27 percent). For the program to be adopted, more than 50 percent of the producer votes cast and more than 50 percent of the total production amount represented on the cast ballot must have approved the proposal. The referendum was conducted Jan. 9-20. 

For more information, visit www.michigan.gov/mdard.


Tags:


Current Issue

On-farm AI: Water, farm, labor research guide decisions

Data collection tool expands farm management

Carmel Valley winegrapes: Parsonage Village Vineyard

IFTA Yakima Valley tour provides orchard insights

IFTA recognizes tree fruit honorees

Pennsylvania recognizes fruit industry professionals

Fresh Views 40 Under 40

see all current issue »

Be sure to check out our other specialty agriculture brands

produceprocessingsm Organic Grower