While the political season may be over, the sheep producers of Iowa have a serious ballot to cast on raising the check-off on sheep. Between Feb. 25 and March 15, they can vote for an increase on the check-off from 10 cents to 25 cents.

John Lawrence, the Agriculture and Natural Resources Program Director of the Iowa State University Extension and Outreach explained what a check-off is:

“A check-off is a small amount of money that is paid by the producer every time for their sheep, lamb and, I believe, wool sales,” Lawrence said. “What this is, is a ballot to increase that amount. “