The Michigan Beef Industry Commission (MBIC) recently announced dates for three public meetings to discuss and take questions on its proposal to create a state checkoff for producers. They are June 29, starting at 10 a.m., and July 13 at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m.
The MBIC currently retains half of $1 per head on cattle when they are sold — through a federal checkoff program instituted in 1985. MBIC Executive Director George Quackenbush and the producer leaders serving on the commission say that needs to change, and they are weighing a proposal to create a state checkoff program that would add up to $1 per animal sold in Michigan.
“We are the face and voice of our industry,” Quackenbush said in a statement. “Doing that job in today’s environment, using 1985 funding, simply isn’t sustainable or as effective as we need to be for our farmers. The Commission realizes it’s time to modernize our funding and maximize our efforts on behalf of Michigan cattle producers.”
The listening sessions scheduled for June and July are an opportunity for producers to have their questions answered and learn more about the MBIC’s plans. They will be held in an online format to help ensure producers around the state have ample access to the conversation.
Login and call-in details are available at www.mibeef.org/micheckoff.
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“We know cattle producers are busy people,” Quackenbush said. “This format saves everyone time and fuel, while still allowing anyone with questions or concerns to be part of the discussion.”
The MBIC halted its state checkoff in 1986, when the national checkoff program was enacted. This means the commission can re-implement the state program without a full referendum process.
Source: michiganfarmnews.com
Photo Credit: istock-shironosov
Categories: Michigan, Livestock, Beef Cattle