Producer assessments have played a pivotal role in shaping the wheat and agricultural industries in Texas. What began as voluntary contributions in the mid 19th century turned into statewide legislation that gave legitimacy to producer groups to fund promotion, research, education and market development for agricultural products.
When the Texas Wheat Growers Association, now the Texas Wheat Producers Association, was founded in 1950, it relied on voluntary membership assessments. Producers who paid the assessment became members of the association and were eligible to serve as directors, laying the foundation for grower-led leadership in the industry.
Nearly two decades later, the 61st Texas Legislature passed the “Commodity Check-Off” law in 1969. This legislation allowed agricultural organizations to hold referendums where producers could vote to fund their own commodity programs. The funds generated through these assessments were directed toward research, insect and disease control, education and promotion. Before a commodity board could govern checkoff dollars, it had to prove its readiness through public hearings, ensuring accountability and grower confidence in how funds would be managed.
Following the passage of this law, wheat growers voted on whether to adopt a voluntary assessment. With 67% in favor, producers in 34 wheat-producing counties established the wheat assessment. In 1971, the Texas Wheat Producers Board was formed to oversee the funds, a role it continues to serve more than 50 years later.
In 1983, Texas legislators approved Proposition 3, also known as the “Commodity Referendum Law.” This shifted assessments from being voluntary to refundable, meaning growers would automatically pay through their first handler but could request a refund if they chose not to participate. Initially, the assessment still covered the original 34 counties, but in 1985, wheat producers voted to expand the program statewide. This expansion also increased board representation by adding six additional directors, giving producers across Texas a stronger, united voice in funding projects that benefited the entire industry.
Today, the board operates a three-cent per bushel wheat assessment. These funds are invested in three main areas: research, market development and education. This year, the board approved its largest-ever research investment of more than $420,000 in new funding. Market development remains vital, with studies showing growers receive a $23 return for every $1 invested in foreign marketing programs. The board has also renewed its commitment to K–12 education through the Fields of Learning program, which introduces students to wheat production and nutrition with engaging classroom activities.
Unlike in the association’s early years, membership is based on voluntary annual dues and completely separate from participation in the statewide wheat assessment program. Membership in the association supports legislative advocacy at both the state and federal levels, ensuring wheat growers have a strong policy voice alongside their investments in research and promotion.
From its beginnings as a voluntary dues system to today’s statewide checkoff program, producer assessments have empowered Texas wheat growers to invest in their own future. These grower-led funds continue to drive innovation, expand markets and educate the next generation, therefore, securing wheat’s place as a vital part of Texas agriculture.
As we celebrate 75 years of advocacy, both the board and association remain committed to serving growers and strengthening the industry for decades to come. Learn more about the association’s history, explore stories of service, and view photos from the past on the 75th anniversary webpage.
