Blueberry Growers To Vote On Creating Research Program

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Blueberry growers in Michigan will decide whether to establish a research and education program to support their industry.

A referendum has been scheduled for Jan. 9-20. The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will oversee it.

Public hearings on the matter were conducted in Holland and South Haven last month.

A committee of seven blueberry producers appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder would oversee the program. It would be funded by assessments on blueberries grown in the state.

The proposal calls for a maximum assessment of up to three-tenths of a cent per pound of blueberries sold.

To be adopted, the program must receive support from more than 50 percent of votes cast, representing more than 50 percent of the total bushels voted.

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