The ballots are counted and registered producers have voted in favor of one-cent checkoff on every bushel of corn raised and/or sold in Missouri. Don Steen, Missouri Department of Agriculture director, announced Dec. 23 that the 2008 Missouri Corn Checkoff Referendum was approved by registered corn producers who voted by ballot Dec. 1-15. The referendum asked corn producers to vote on raising the current Missouri Corn Merchandising Council checkoff of one-half cent per bushel on all corn produced and/or sold in Missouri to one cent per bushel.

"Missouri producers overwhelmingly approved the checkoff increase with approximately 75% voting in favor," Steen says. "The Council is to be commended for their hard work. This historic effort shows true initiative and leadership that will ensure the success of the Missouri corn industry for years to come."

In July, the Missouri Corn Merchandising Council voted to submit a referendum to corn producers. The one-half cent per bushel checkoff has been in effect since it was originally approved in 1984. This increase is the first since that time.

Beginning July 1, 2009, a fee of one cent per bushel will be assessed on all corn produced and/or sold in the state of Missouri. Producers will control the monies generated and the funds must, by law, be used for corn market development, education and research. Producers may receive a refund of their contributions upon proper request.