Title: Michigan Seeks Nominations for Wine Grape Commodity Group Advisory Committee by June 11, 2025

Advisory committee nominations accepted through June 11, 2025

LANSING, Mich. — The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is seeking input on the potential establishment of a legislatively enacted Michigan wine grape commodity group after growers submitted enough signatures to pursue organization. The department is currently taking nominations for a temporary advisory committee composed of industry members, which will oversee the process moving forward.

"MDARD is committed to maintaining a diverse food and agriculture industry within Michigan and highlighting unique agricultural opportunities," said MDARD Director Tim Boring. "The potential establishment of a wine grape commodity group would support Michigan craft beverage producers and businesses to continue to grow their product, expand their knowledge and improve their economic impact."

In Michigan, Public Act (P.A.) 232 provides an avenue for commodity growers to organize and vote on whether or not to establish a legislatively enacted commodity group. Two hundred signatures or 25 percent, whichever is lower, from growers are first needed to start the process, which are then submitted to MDARD as required by the statute. MDARD currently has legal, fiscal and program oversight responsibility for 15 legislatively established commodity boards.

Michigan wine grape growers, and businesses affiliated with the purchase of Michigan wine grapes, are encouraged to submit their contact information to receive updates about the P.A. 232 process, including information on committees, public hearings, and referendums.

Using this form, grape growers may also nominate themselves to participate in the temporary advisory committee. Survey responses are due June 11, 2025 to be considered for the committee.

The responsibilities of a temporary advisory committee will include developing program recommendations to be considered by fellow wine grape growers at future public hearings. If the feedback at those hearings is positive, a referendum date will be set for qualified producers of the commodity. A successful referendum is the final step in enacting a wine grape P.A. 232 group.