News

Michigan blueberry growers approve checkoff

Michigan blueberry growers have approved a referendum to establish the first-ever state blueberry checkoff.

The checkoff will assess growers up to three-tenths of a cent per pound of blueberries sold starting May 1st of this year.

Almost three quarters of producers representing 36 million pounds of production voted to approve the program.

The Michigan Blueberry Research and Education Program will be administered by a new Michigan Blueberry Commission which will include seven blueberry growers appointed by the governor.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture says the program will help improve the economic position of Michigan’s blueberry industry by supporting research.