America's peanut farmers have voted with a 92 percent approval rate to continue the Peanut Promotion, Research and Information Order, which authorizes the National Peanut Board.

 In order for the continuance referendum to pass, a majority of eligible producers needed to vote in favor of continuing the Order. Voting took place from April 7 through April 18. Growers who paid assessments on peanuts produced during the representative period from January 1 through December 31, 2013, and were current peanut producers were eligible to vote.

 The Commodity Promotion, Research and Information Act of 1996 requires a referendum be conducted every five years by the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

 "It is gratifying to know the work of the National Peanut Board is recognized by the growers we serve as essential to their success and contributes to keeping peanuts as America's most preferred nut," said John Harrell, chairman of the National Peanut Board. "On behalf of the Board, we're thrilled at this vote of confidence and we pledge to continue working hard for America's peanut farmers."

 Milestones

Since its inception in 2001, National Peanut Board has been pivotal in maintaining markets and increasing consumption of USA-grown peanuts. Some highlights: