The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced on Apr. 7 that state wheat producers have voted to continue the Michigan Wheat Program for another five years.
The referendum, held from February 9 to 20, asked qualifying wheat producers whether they wanted to maintain the program or let it end. Of the 685 ballots cast, there were 623 valid votes. Results showed that 514 producers, representing about 8.7 million bushels (80 percent), voted in favor, while 109 producers, representing about 2.2 million bushels (20 percent), opposed the measure.
With more than half of both voters and production volume supporting it, the Michigan Wheat Program will now run from September 1, 2026 through August 31, 2031 at an assessment rate of one half of one percent (0.5%) of wheat value sold. The program is funded directly by farmers and does not use taxpayer dollars.
According to the official website, the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development supports farming communities by preserving the environment and fostering economic growth in food and agriculture while protecting public health and animal welfare. The department safeguards a food and agriculture system valued at nearly $126 billion across Michigan’s economy. It also enforces laws related to weights and measures, oversees commodity boards like those managing check-off programs such as this one, advances innovative strategies for economic growth, preserves sustainable farming practices,and supports consumer protection regulations.
The Agricultural Commodities Marketing Act allows such programs if approved every five years by a majority vote among commodity producers who collectively represent over half the state’s production volume. The department contributes to public service through environmental preservation for farming communities. The Michigan Wheat Program was first established in June 2011 after a producer referendum; majorities have supported its continuation in subsequent referenda held in both previous cycles.
