About the Checkoff

Logo of Texas Sorghum featuring a red star with a black sorghum plant and the words 'Texas Sorghum' in blue.

Texas Grain Sorghum Producers Board (TGSB) represents sorghum growers across the state by enhancing the sorghum industry through research, promotion and education. TGSB is overseen by the Texas Department of Agriculture.

In July 2008, a new national sorghum checkoff program was implemented, and at this time the TGSB board voted to stop the current state checkoff on sorghum. Sorghum is now assessed through the United Sorghum Checkoff Program (USCP) and TGSB receives 25% of the money Texas collects back to do state and regional research, marketing and educational programs. USCP is an assessment of .006 of the value of the grain at the first point of sale. TGSB works very closely with USCP to make the sorghum industry a more competitive, technologically advanced and sustainable crop for growers across the nation and Texas.

In February 2011, a referendum was held by the growers to voice their opinion on the national checkoff. The referendum passed by 72.6% across the nation and by 91.5% in Texas.

Research

Young corn plant growing in brown soil against a bright blue sky background.

The Texas Grain Sorghum Producers Board utilizes checkoff funds to provide funding for research projects across the state that will benefit the sorghum industry. Genetic research to increase yield, pest resistance, and herbicide tolerant crops are just a few projects that have been funded.

Promotion & Marketing

Green tractor working in a large brown field under a blue sky with white clouds.

Texas Grain Sorghum Producers Board takes the promotion and marketing of sorghum with utmost importance. TGSB has taken the focus of developing and expand markets, from exports, ethanol, animal feed, and human food ingredients. TGSB delivers promising markets to its producers.

Education

A close-up view of a sorghum field with tall, brown seed heads against a clear blue sky with a small white cloud.

Without education there is no ability for the research funded by TGSB to be disseminated. Our education is promoted through the Texas Sorghum Insider, our monthly newsletter, the annual TGSB Meeting, and through our board of directors. Please visit our Education Page to learn more!