March 2025: Food and Agriculture Month

WHEREAS, March signifies a national celebration of the importance of food and agriculture in the United States and offers a perfect opportunity to recognize and celebrate the diversity and abundance provided by Michigan’s farmers and our growing food and agriculture sector and the partnerships that keep our food and agriculture industry thriving; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan’s wide array of crops, fresh water supply, unique geographic location, rich and varied soil types, and various microclimates created by the state’s proximity to the Great Lakes, coupled with the dedication of Michigan farmers to use regenerative, sustainable production practices to protect and improve soil and water health, make Michigan the ideal location for food and agriculture businesses; and,

WHEREAS, production agriculture, food processing, and related businesses comprise a large portion of the state’s workforce, employing 805,000 people, or 17.2 percent of our state population, and contributing $104.7 billion to our state's economy each year; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan leads the nation in production of 15 agricultural commodities, including dry black beans, dry cranberry beans, tart cherries, geranium cuttings, begonias, impatiens, marigolds, petunias, hardy chrysanthemums, asparagus, New Guinea impatiens, cucumbers, dry navy beans, squash, and dry small red beans, making our state one of the most agriculturally diverse states in the nation; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan’s new Farm to Family Program will help bring Michigan crops to family tables across the state by cultivating new economic opportunities, and providing more access to healthy, affordable food options, making a real difference in people’s lives and directly investing in Michigan’s growing food and agriculture industry; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan's integrated network of family farmers, processors, wholesalers, retailers, consumers, and a team of local, state, and federal food safety inspectors work to ensure a safe and nutritious food supply enjoyed by millions throughout our state, nation, and across the globe; and,

WHEREAS, purchasing Michigan-grown and processed food and agriculture products assures freshness and quality, strengthens our communities and family farmers, and helps preserve our state’s rich farmland; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan’s food and agricultural sector continues to grow, offering new business and career opportunities for Michiganders;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2025 as Food and Agriculture Month in Michigan.