Press Kit: The National Honey Board - Formation and Administration
The National Honey Board was created by the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture to administer the Honey Research, Promotion and Consumer Information Order. The order, approved by a referendum of honey producers and importers in 1986, established a program for generic honey research, advertising and promotion.
Since February 1987, the Board's promotion programs have been funded by an assessment of one cent per pound on honey (domestic, imported or exported). Producers of less than 6,000 pounds of honey per year can file for an exemption from the assessment.
The National Honey Board consists of 12 elected members including producers, packers and importers, as well as a representative of a cooperative honey marketing association. Board members and alternates represent the honey industry of the United States and Puerto Rico and serve without compensation for their time.
The Board's policies are supported and implemented by the National Honey Board office staff in Longmont, Colo. and by the Board's various committees.