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2008 Policy Book
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We support the Michigan Bean Commission.
Due to the decline in overall dry bean acreage in Michigan and the increased plantings of colored varieties, we strongly recommend continuation, staffing and adequate funding of the dry bean variety development program at Michigan State University. The bean-breeding program must include the development of new varieties to better meet the demands of domestic and world markets. Resistance to diseases such as anthracnose and white mold should be bred into all varieties of dry beans.
The continued consolidation of dry bean processors and end users has led to increased interest in production contracts. These contracts can be viable and important marketing tools for growers, elevators and canners. We recommend that for the credibility and future availability of these contracts, all parties must abide by the provisions of these agreements and the interaction between all parties must be closer to ensure compliance at all levels. We also urge the option of "Act of God" clauses be available in these contracts. The farmer shall be identified as a grower in that contract.
We support funding to establish a national dry bean stocks report to be released up to twice per year covering all primary growing regions, with information delineated by major dry bean varieties.
