Since 1962, U.S. cranberry growers and processors have been part of a self-financed research and promotion program. The small industry, with an estimated 1,200 growers and 45 handlers in 10 states, has rejected a proposal to allow outside donations to the checkoff program, says USDA after tabulating the votes in a referendum held early this year.
Producers voted overwhelmingly to allow voluntary contributions but processors nixed the proposal. Voting was proportional to volume, and processors representing 18 percent of U.S. volume voted in the mail-in referendum. They generally voted to allow contributions but to pass, the referendum needed approval by processors with at least 50 percent of U.S. volume, said USDA.
The Cranberry Marketing Council, created by the 1962 cranberry marketing order, supported the amendment to allow donations. When it announced the referendum, USDA said, “Sources not subject to the order have expressed an interest in supporting many of the research and development projects currently funded by the order. However, without the ability to accept financial contributions, the Committee has had to decline these offers. This proposal would provide authority to accept financial contributions. With the potential for additional funding, more research and development projects could be undertaken.”
With rejection of the amendment, the 1962 order remains in effect.