Whereas, Every autumn Michigan's bounty of diverse agricultural products is proudly displayed for its citizens and visitors at our state's many farm and farmers' markets; and,

Whereas, Michigan's Great Lakes, its many inland lakes and rivers, its varied climate and soil, and its two beautiful peninsulas create a unique environment for producing more than 200 commercial crops and supporting agricultural tourism; and,

Whereas, Michigan leads the nation in the production of 19 commodities, including tart cherries, blueberries, three varieties of dry beans (black, cranberry and small red), 13 floriculture crop categories (including flowering hanging baskets, geraniums, petunias and impatiens) and cucumbers for pickles, and ranks in the top 10 for 30 other commodities; and,

Whereas, Michigan's food and agriculture industry contributes more than $60.1 billion to Michigan's economy annually, and production agriculture, food processing, and related businesses employ approximately one million Michigan residents; and,

Whereas, Selecting Michigan grown and produced foods helps keep food dollars circulating in our local communities, strengthens Michigan's family farmers, 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 just $10 of its weekly grocery budget on Michigan grown and produced foods, it would generate nearly $40 million each and every week; and,

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

Whereas, Agriculture and tourism are Michigan's second and third leading industries, and when combined, they support economic stability and development, strengthen Michigan's 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,

Whereas, Michigan Farm Market & Agricultural Tourism Month is a terrific time to enjoy not only the beauty and vibrant hues of the state's fall foliage but the rich 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 farmers, producers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers, work together to make Michigan Farm Market & Agricultural Tourism 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 2007 as Farm Market and Agricultural Month in Michigan.