Michigan Wheat Program Approved

The Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development announced that the Michigan Wheat Program was approved by wheat producers. The referendum was conducted from June 20, 2011 to July 1, 2011. 1,374 complete Official Referendum Response Forms were received. 747 producers voted yes and 627 producers voted no. The Michigan Wheat Program will be established beginning September 1, 2011 and ending August 31, 2016. The program will be resubmitted to a referendum of the producers during the fifth year of operation.

The program will be funded by an assessment of up to one half of one percent (.5%) of value of wheat sold during the marketing year, collected from all Michigan wheat producers at first point-of-sale. Nine members, eight of whom produce wheat in their representative district and one industry representative, shall be appointed to serve on the Michigan Wheat Committee. The MDARD Director will also be a non-voting member. The committee will administer the program. "The Michigan Wheat Program is aimed at promoting the profitable production, marketing, and utilization of wheat on behalf of Michigan producers," said Keith Creagh, MDARD Director. "It will emphasize advancements in wheat research, education, information delivery, market development, and foster industry-wide collaboration."

View a copy of the MDARD Director’s July 19, 2011 Opinion and Order regarding this program.

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