Grain Farmers Urged to Vote

Maryland grain farmers are encouraged to make their vote count in the Maryland Grain Checkoff Program referendum on July 29, 2011. This 20-year-old program administered by the Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) is designed to fund market development, research and education projects focused on improving local farm profitability. 

“The Checkoff Program is a way we can help ourselves like no one else can,” states Marion Wilson, grain farmer from Queen Anne’s County and MGPUB President.  “The MGPUB has been working to improve growing conditions, research and provide sound science answers to environmental issues, and expand the uses of grain.  New product development helps stabilize the grain market and increase demand, so the profitability of Maryland grain farmers improves.”

Under state law, checkoff programs are required to conduct a referendum every five years to reaffirm support.  If passed by a majority of those voting who are eligible to vote, the Maryland Grain Checkoff Program will continue for an additional five years from October 1, 2011.  An assessment of one half of one percent (0.5%) is collected on the net value of each bushel of grain sold.  The checkoff is deducted at the first point of sale on all grain, with the exception of soybeans, which is under a national checkoff program. 

“I encourage farmers to vote YES for the Maryland Grain Checkoff Program,” says Chip Bowling, Charles County farmer and MGPUB past president.  “It is the only program that addresses our local issues with immediate action for real results, and it is local farmers making those decisions.  Individuals who are not interested in supporting the checkoff can receive a full or partial refund from the MGPUB.  Let your voice count in supporting our Maryland grain industry to see it prosper and grow.”

To be eligible to vote for the Referendum, a person must be financially engaged in the growing of grain as a landowner, tenant, or sharecropper. The referendum will be held from 10:00 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on Friday, July 29, 2011, at county Extension Offices.  Absentee ballots are available from the MGPUB, by email lynnehoot@aol.com, mail: 53 Slama Road, Edgewater, MD 21037, or call 410-956-5771.  For further information contact Lynne Hoot at the MGPUB office.