By Blake Jackson
Wisconsin tart cherry growers have until June 15, 2024, to participate in the election of two new members to the five-member Wisconsin Cherry Board.
Despite the absence of nominations during the original and extended nomination periods, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) is moving forward with the election. The ballot will not feature any nominated candidates, prompting eligible growers to suggest two fellow cherry growers to serve on the board.
Ballots were dispatched to cherry producers during the week of May 10, 2024. For those who have queries or have not yet received their ballot by May 20, they are encouraged to reach out to DATCP’s Market Orders Program at DATCPMarketOrders@wisconsin.gov.
Completed ballots must be either emailed or mailed to DATCP, Market Orders Program, PO Box 8911, Madison, WI 53708, and postmarked by June 15, 2024.
The elected producers will commence their three-year terms on July 1, 2024, and conclude them on June 30, 2027.
The Wisconsin Cherry Board consists of five members selected at large, tasked with administering Wisconsin’s Cherry Marketing Order. These board members manage the approximately $55,000 collected in assessment fees from Wisconsin cherry growers.
These funds are crucial in supporting the cherry industry, facilitating research, education, and the promotion of Wisconsin-grown cherries.
Photo Credit: pixabay-couleur
Categories: Wisconsin, Government & Policy