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Michigan potato industry speaks in favor of checkoff increase
Michigan potato growers and processors voiced support for an increased assessment during this week’s public hearing with the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development.
Michigan Potato Industry Commission board member Travis Horkey grows fresh potatoes in Monroe County and was one of many growers to speak in favor of adjusting the assessment cap to no more than 9.5 cents per hundredweight.
“We need to keep a strong voice because there is less of us,” he says.
Growers are currently assessed on an annual rate of up to 5.5 cents per hundredweight and 1.5 cents for the first handler to support the industry through research, promotion, advertising, and market development.
Vice President of Purchasing for Better Made Snack Foods Philip Gusmano says the change will allow the checkoff to keep pace with rising costs.
“To limit the Commission’s ability to increase their revenue is short-sighted and bad for the industry,” he says.
The MDARD Director has 45 days following the hearing to make a decision which could include issuing a vote on the referendum change.
Growers last approved the Michigan Potato Industry Commission referendum unanimously in 2022.
