Checkoffs are financial contributions created through sales and support from within industry operations, including beef, pork, lamb, cotton, sorghum, watermelon, mushrooms, and many others. Discussion about U.S. Sod Industry Checkoff started with those in the sod industry in 2017. Thoughts are that it can provide support by helping to expand markets; increase demand; support marketing and scientific research; and promote industry initiatives and activities.
As part of the checkoff, farms would contribute 1/10th of one penny per square foot of sod sold. This contribution will be invested by a board of volunteer sod producers, nominated by fellow producers. Potential programs could include consumer advertising, producer promotional support, agronomic and consumer research, and customer and regulator education and outreach. Every checkoff dollar would be invested to support this goal: increase the value of every square foot of sod in the U.S. Sod Industry.
Everyone will have an opportunity to provide comments online on the U.S. Sod Checkoff plan in the near future. After comments, votes will take place only among sod producers. It must be approved by at least 50% (plus 1) of national sod producers.
To access a list of resources regarding the Sod Checkoff, CLICK HERE
To view a recorded video (38 min) from Dr. Casey Reynolds, Executive Director of Turf Producers International, CLICK HERE
