Whereas, Every autumn Michigan gives its citizens and visitors a bountiful offering of diverse agricultural products, and these wonderful things to eat and drink and beautiful things to plant may be found at our state’s many farm markets; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s Great Lakes, its many inland rivers and lakes, its varied climate and soil, and its two beautiful peninsulas, create a unique environment for producing over 125 commercial crops and for agricultural tourism; and,

Whereas, The farm markets of our state connect our hard-working farmers and our consumers, and our Select Michigan crops gives children and adults a taste for fresh, healthy produce grown right here in Michigan; and,

Whereas, Michigan’s food and agriculture industry contributes over $37 billion to the Michigan economy, and when local food and agricultural products are purchased, our communities and farmers benefit, and our farmland is preserved; and,

Whereas, Michigan Farm Market Month is a grand and glorious time to enjoy not only the beauty of the state’s fall foliage but the colors of Michigan products from apples and apple cider to marigolds and melons to pumpkins and pears; and,

Whereas, Our produce is bountiful and our people – farmer, processors, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers – work together to make Michigan Farm Market Month a special time to celebrate the harvest; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October, 2004, as Farm Market Month in Michigan.