Michigan Blueberry Growers To Consider Possibility of Research, Education Program

Blueberry growers in the state will discuss the possibility of creating a research and education program to support their industry.

A referendum has been scheduled for January and the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development will oversee it.

Public hearings were conducted last month.

A committee of seven blueberry producers appointed Governor Rick Snyder to oversee the program, which would be funded by assessments on blueberries grown right here in Michigan.

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

The program must receive more than 50 percent of support to be approved.