The Florida Cotton Marketing Order was passed on July 11 with 79% of producers voting yes and 89.5% of total acreage represented.
This order will allow cotton producers to financially contribute to the research, expansion, regulation, promotion and marketing in the cotton industry. By participating in these activities, the Florida cotton industry will be able to advocate for itself and gain assistance for any issues that may arise.
After being passed, a formal advisory council made up of 14 members will be appointed by Commissioner Wilton Simpson. The council will be tasked with advising the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) on needs and priorities within the cotton industry, while also recommending rules and regulations for managing the order.
Membership for the Florida Cotton Growers Association is $50 per year for active producers and $100 per year for an associate (non-producer) membership. Anyone interested in becoming a member should contact Maddie Campbell, Assistant Director of Ag Policy for the Florida Farm Bureau Federation.
