Whereas, Every autumn, Michigan gives its citizens and visitors an amazing cornucopia of agricultural products to eat and drink, and beautiful flowers and trees to plant; 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 20 commodities, including tart cherries, blueberries, Niagara grapes, cucumbers for pickles, 13 floriculture crop categories, and 3 varieties of dry beans, and ranks in the top 10 in 29 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, The farm markets, farmers’ 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 and Agricultural Tourism Month is a great opportunity to enjoy not only the beauty and vibrant hues of the state’s fall foliage but the rich colors of Michigan’s products inlcuding apples, marigolds, melons, pumpkins, and pears; and,

Whereas, 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 bring in and celebrate the harvest; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of the State of Michigan, do hereby proclaim October 2006, as Farm Market and Agricultural Month in Michigan.