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Michigan’s dairy checkoff up for vote

Michigan dairy farmers have until Friday to vote on the Dairy Promotion Referendum.

For every 100 pounds of milk produced, dairy farmers currently give 15 cents toward promotional and educational activities, 10 cents of which stays in the state.

United Dairy Industry of Michigan chair Corby Werth tells Brownfield assessments last year provided UDIM with about $11.5 million for local promotions like virtual farm tours as well as farmer and school grants.

“A lot of people think if I vote no, then I’m going to get my 15 cents back,” he says.  “Well, that’s not going to happen because the checkoff is an act by Congress.”

The fourth-generation dairy farmer from Alpena also serves on the board of directors for Dairy Management, Inc.

The national checkoff is authorized by the Dairy and Tobacco Adjustment Act of 1983.