The $1 per head beef checkoff investment does not go as far as it did 40 years ago when it was established. In Minnesota, a vote will be held this spring to increase the state checkoff rate. Minnesota Beef Council Executive Director Kelly Schmidt says it is important for beef producers to be certified for this referendum vote. Make sure you’re on that list,” said Schmidt. “You can do that by calling our office, or there’s a very simple form on the website. Fill it out, even if you’re not sure you’re on there, we can double-check it and make sure you are.” The names must be certified by Thursday. The Minnesota Department of Agriculture will mail out the ballots in March. The results of the referendum vote will be announced in mid-May. If approved, the new checkoff rate would be in place this summer.
