Bean, carrot growers to vote on renewing programs

LANSING, Mich. (AP) - Referendums have been scheduled on whether to continue programs designed to promote two Michigan crops: carrots and dry beans.

The state Department of Agriculture and Rural Development says separate votes will be taken on the Carrot Industry Development Program and the Michigan Bean Commission.

The carrot program imposes an assessment on fresh and processing carrots to fund advertising, research and other measures to expand markets.

The referendum for growers will run from March 31 through April 11.

Producers will vote on the bean commission from April 28 through May 9. It’s also meant to improve the economic position of bean producers.

Both programs are submitted to growers every five years to decide on renewal.