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MI Department of Agriculture Unveils County Food, Agricultural Profiles Highlighting Economic Impact

LANSING Today, Michigan Department of Agriculture (MDA) Director Don Koivisto unveiled a set of food and agricultural county profiles for each of Michigans 83 counties and nine agricultural regions. The profiles highlight the diversity of Michigan agriculture, the economic impacts of the agri-food industry from a systemic view including food processing and distribution. The profiles also include information on current food and agricultural trends like locally produced and organic foods.

These county profiles can be used by policymakers and private sector partners looking for opportunities to bolster the already successful food and agriculture industries in Michigan, said Koivisto. As the states second-leading industry, there are numerous entrepreneurial prospects and expansion possibilities for the states established agri-food businesses to create new jobs and economic growth in Michigan.

Michigan produces more than 200 commodities and is second in the nation in terms of agricultural diversity. For example, the thumb area is number one in the state for dry beans and edible grain production, while western Michigan is tops for fruit and vegetable production. The majority of the states livestock producers are located in central Michigan.

When combined, the states 10 million acres of farmland, 1,000 licensed food processors, and more than 50,000 retail and food service establishments, Michigans food and agricultural systems are a potent economic driver and jobs provider.

With the recent increase in consumer demand for local food and ag products, these profiles are a tremendous marketing tool for municipalities, said Koivisto. Agriculture has long been the states economic workhorse and MDA is proud to be able to help communities identify and capitalize on additional opportunities to unlock its economic potential.

The profiles combine data drawn from USDAs National Agriculture Statistics Service (NASS) 2007 Census of Agriculture and other public sources. The county and region profiles also contain food processing and distribution data, and information about local sources of food such as farmers markets and food banks.

For a complete listing of the county profiles, visit www.michigan.gov/mda. For additional information, visit USDA-NASS