The long-awaited Indiana checkoff system goes into effect Saturday, Sept. 1, making Indiana the 20th checkoff state in the nation. The National Corn Growers Association (NCGA) look forward to the Hoosier State's inclusion into the checkoff system and, along with Indiana Corn Growers Association President Michael Aylesworth, urges Indiana growers to join corn growers nationwide and sign up for the checkoff.

"Please take this opportunity to join us in the checkoff effort by delivering your enrollment form to the first purchaser of your corn," said Aylesworth. "If you sell corn to several establishments, each one of them must have a separate enrollment form. Friday August 31st is the last day for this year's signup enrollment. The enrollment forms are available at the growers' local Purdue extension office.

"Indiana farmers and corn producers have a great opportunity to help each other and their own industry by pooling financial resources to develop new uses and markets for corn," Aylesworth continued. "We in Indiana are going to especially focus on ethanol development, so please take the time to enroll and become part of the future."

Aylesworth also said Friday is the last day to vote for board members to sit on the new Indiana Corn Marketing Council. "Ten farmers will be elected statewide to oversee the use of checkoff funds," he said. "Voting will also take place at the growers local Perdue extension office."

Last reviewed August 29, 2001

ST. LOUIS OFFICE

WASHINGTON D.C. OFFICE