MI Asparagus Producers to Vote on Continuing Development, Promotion and Research Program
April 15, 2013
Referendum contact: Deb Merrill, 517-335-4576
Media contact: Jennifer Holton, 517-241-2485
Michigan asparagus producers will have an opportunity to vote on whether to continue the Michigan Asparagus Industry Development Program in a referendum conducted by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) beginning Monday, April 15 through Friday, April 26, 2013.
Ballots were mailed to asparagus producers on April 11, 2013. Eligible producers with questions, or those not receiving a ballot, should contact MDARD toll-free at 800-292-3939.
The Michigan Asparagus Industry Development Program, developed to improve the economic position of Michigan asparagus producers, was last approved in a 2008 referendum. By law, the program must be resubmitted for grower approval every five years. Currently, the assessment is 1-3/4 cents ($.0175) per pound of asparagus.
For the program to be renewed, more than 50 percent of the producer votes cast, representing more than 50 percent of the total number of pounds represented on the cast ballots, must approve it.
For the purpose of this referendum, each producer, partnership or corporation is entitled to one vote. All ballots must be filled out completely, signed and postmarked by April 26, 2013, and should be sent to MDARD, Executive Office, P.O. Box 30017, Lansing, MI 48909.
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