May 24, 2022

Michigan onion growers vote to continue promotion group

Michigan onion producers have approved a referendum to continue the Michigan Onion Promotion and Development Program.

The changes were presented by the Michigan Onion Committee, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Director Gary McDowell announced.

Established in 1977, the Michigan Onion Promotion and Development Program was developed to improve the economic position of the state’s onion producers by creating greater opportunities for Michigan onions. By law, the program must be renewed every five years.

Seven valid ballots were cast. Each producer voted on two questions. One question was for continuation of the Michigan Onion Promotion and Development Program for an additional five years beginning Sept. 1, 2033.

A second question on the ballot, which also passed, allows members to serve more than two 3-year terms consecutively. It also changed some of the wording in the program’s bylaws to be gender-neutral.

All seven producers voted yes unanimously on question one representing 347,384 cwt. of production. On question two, six producers voted yes (86%) representing 346,876 (cwt.) of production (99%) and one voted no (14%) representing 538 cwt. of production (1%).

For renewal of the program and its activities, more than 50% of the voting producers, representing more than 50% of the pounds sold by those voting, must have approved it.

For more information on the Michigan Onion Committee, visit it at http://michiganonion.com