Whereas, Michigan leads the nation in the production of 13 commodities, including three varieties of dry beans and five floriculture crop categories, and ranks within the top 10 for 23 other commodities; and,

Whereas, Michigan's food and agriculture industry contributes over $71.3 billion to Michigan's economy annually, and production agriculture, food processing and related businesses employ about one million Michigan residents; and,

Whereas, Michigan's agricultural economy expanded more than five times faster than the general economy between 2006 and 2007 making agriculture a cornerstone to diversifying Michigan's economy; and,

Whereas, Michigan has approximately 10 million acres of farmland and is home to over 56,000 farms averaging 179 acres, with more than 90 percent of farmland owned by families or individuals; and,

Whereas, Selecting Michigan grown and processed foods helps keep food dollars circulating in our local communities, strengthens family farms, improves the quality of life for our citizens in both rural and urban areas, and preserves the state's rich and diverse agricultural heritage; and,

Whereas, If every Michigan household spent $10 of their weekly grocery budget on Michigan grown and processed foods, it would generate nearly $40 million each week; and,

Whereas, Select Michigan crops give a taste of the many fresh and healthy produce grown right here, and by visiting a farm market, farmers' market or other agricultural tourism business can be an enriching Pure Michigan experience; and,

Whereas, Agriculture and tourism are Michigan's second and third leading industries, and when combined, they support economic stability and development, strengthen family farms, improve the quality of life for our citizens in both rural and urban areas, and preserve the state's rich and diverse farmland and agricultural heritage; and,

Now, Therefore, be it Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, governor of the state of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2009 Farm Market and Agricultural Tourism Month in Michigan. Our produce is bountiful and our people - farmers, processors, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers - work together to make Michigan Farm Market and Agricultural Tourism Month a special time to celebrate the harvest.