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Establishing a Sod Checkoff Program
What could the sod industry look like with a checkoff program? An industry that can Bring Grass to Life by:
- Fueling consumer preference for sod at their homes
- Increasing preference for sod in sports fields, educational environments and municipalities
- Funding research to better understand consumers, and educate regulators and lawmakers
- Above all, creating more value per square foot of sod
Members of the U.S sod production industry have investigated the interest and potential impact of a sod checkoff program. As of January 2021, a draft order that outlines the key points needed for an efficient, successful checkoff program has been written and submitted to USDA for review. Once approved, it will be published in the U.S. Federal Register for public viewing and commentary prior to a vote by the sod industry on its passage.
Once passed, the program will be implemented and governed by sod producers, for sod producers to help increase value and profitability per square foot. The program will seek to increase preference for sod, promote sod to consumers nationally and conduct research to educate and inform industry regulators and politicians among other initiatives.
How it Works
The checkoff program collects quarterly assessments from every sod producer in the U.S. based on sales, which will then be used to fund research, national consumer advertising and promotions, equip growers with localized marketing tools, inform and educate key industry stakeholders and more. The results from these initiatives will then provide greater return on investment for all producers.