LANSING ? Blaine Baker has been appointed by Gov. Rick Snyder to fill an open position on the Corn Marketing Program of Michigan board of directors.
Baker, co-owner of Bakerlads Farm in Clayton, brings nearly 40 years of farming experience to the CMPM board. He serves as vice chairman of the Lenawee Conservation District and is past president of the Lenawee County Farm Bureau. Baker, who earned a bachelor?s degree in agricultural production from Michigan State University, will represent District 4 growers. He replaces Brian Kreps.
?Blaine is a great choice for the post and I am confident his service will effectively support the promotion of one of Michigan?s top agricultural commodities,? Snyder said.
The CMPM, established by Public Act 232 of 1965, allows for the establishment of check-off programs for commodities grown in Michigan and sold. Since its origin in 1993, one penny for every bushel of corn grown in Michigan and sold is used by the CMPM to promote the advancement of Michigan?s corn industry through research, education, market development and new uses.
Baker will serve a three-year term that expires on March 5, 2015, and his appointment are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
?The board is looking forward to directing the CMPM throughout the next year, and having Blaine?s expertise and input will enhance our impact,? said Pat Feldpausch, CMPM president and a corn farmer from Fowler. ?During the next year, the organization will continue working to improve and boost traditional markets, while also seeking out new and innovative uses for corn. Michigan?s corn industry adds more than two billion dollars to the state?s economy annually, which is why the work of the CMPM is so important to our industry and our state.?
