Michigan asparagus growers to vote on research, promotion program

Michigan’s asparagus producers will be voting on whether to continue the Michigan Asparagus Industry Development Program in a referendum in March.

The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is conducting the referendum, which runs March 6-17. According to the department.

MDARD is mailing ballots to Michigan asparagus producers today. Eligible producers with questions, or those not receiving a ballot, should contact MDARD at 800-292-3939.

The program was last approved in 2018 and, by law, must be renewed every five years. Currently, Michigan asparagus is assessed at a rate of 1.5 cents per pound.

For the program to be renewed, more than 50% of the producer votes cast, representing more than 50% of the total pounds of asparagus 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 March 17 and should be sent to MDARD, Executive Office, P.O. Box 30017, Lansing, MI 48909.