Minn. wheat growers approve promotional fee hike

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) — Minnesota’s wheat growers have approved the first increase in their promotional check off fee in 30 years.
 The Minnesota Department of Agriculture announced Monday that the vote was 334-154 to increase the wheat checkoff from 1 cent per bushel to 2 cents per bushel.
 Through the automatic checkoff program, wheat farmers pay a percentage of their sale proceeds to their commodity council. The money supports promotion, communications and research activities aimed at increasing the value of their crop.
 The previous rate had been in place since the wheat checkoff was established 30 years ago. The new rate becomes effective July 1.