October, 1998

American Berry Cooperative formed

Growing more berries, (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and blackberries) isn't as easy as it sounds. Having the means to locate new plants and cultivars, having up-to-date information and equipment and a pulse on the newest research and trends as well as networking opportunities and most importantly a market to sell berries, are just some of the hurdles that must be overcome for anyone in or looking to enter the berry industry. Leaders in the berry industry of Ohio took a large step toward advancing on these hurdles.
On August 25, 1998, at the M&M Berry Farm in Urbana, Ohio, the directors of the American Berry Cooperative (ABC) met to elect officers for the newly formed co-op and ratified the by-laws.
Eight charter members were on hand to elect a board of directors and officers for the co-op. Fred Finney, Moreland Fruit Farm of Wooster and one of the key originators of the organization, was elected to a three-year term on the board and the first acting president of the organization. Other officers include: Dave Maurer, Maurer Farms of Wooster, vice president, Alan Pullins, Bowling Green, secretary/treasurer and Mike Pullins, M&M Berry Farm of Urbana, as assistant treasurer.
The group was formed out of the need to strengthen the berry industry in Ohio while creating more, equitable markets and a way to share the burden of costly equipment and supply needs. With the organization of the co-op leaders hope to increase the number of berry producers and thus increase acreage while establishing recognition for the industry and the products of the industry.
Forming the cooperative will give the industry a united front for creating new markets and identifying existing markets for the product, while collectively gathering and distributing production, marketing and research information.
The guidelines for membership include:

• member contributions should be based on service and benefits received
• members must sign a membership and marketing agreement
• members must be willing to share production techniques and other information
• maintain focus on profitability, and
• accessing products and services through existing grower organizations while not duplicating other organization objectives.
  

The criteria established by the directors to become a member of the cooperative include:

• Dues for 1998-99 for $500 and then $100 + annually based on berry acreage.
• Reasonable margins on products and services purchased through the cooperative.
• Willingness to serve on appointed committees or board.
• Contribution of individual's knowledge and expertise.

The Cooperative is in the process of negotiating with the Ohio Fruit Growers Society and the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation for administrative services. The first meeting of the American Berry Cooperative was October 14 at the Ohio Farm Bureau Federation Office in Columbus, Ohio.
For more information about the cooperative or to become a member, contact Mike Pullins at (614) 249-2424.