February 11, 2008

Lansing - As part of Governor Jennifer Granholm’s “Buy Michigan First” initiative, the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) negotiated a contract to purchase Michigan-grown potatoes for the state’s prisons - saving the state approximately $248,000 over the next four years.

“Buy Michigan First” is a program designed to give Michigan-based businesses contract preference in supplying goods and services to state agencies.

The contract between MDOC’s processor, Michigan State Industries, and Hanson Farms located in Delta County, is one of the successes of the “Buy Michigan First” directive.

“We are extremely glad to be a partner in this effort,” said MDOC Director Patricia L. Caruso. “We prepare over 150,000 prisoner meals daily - which is no small potatoes. Buying Michigan-grown potatoes and other produce enables us to receive fresh, high-quality products, helps Michigan farmers, and contributes to the state’s economic prosperity.”

MDOC’s new agreement allows potatoes produced at Hanson’s to be packed at the Newberry Correctional Facility. The Michigan Potato Industry Commission (MPIC) donated commercial packing equipment to the Newberry facility to assist in moving this project forward. Once the potatoes are processed, they are distributed to other Corrections facilities throughout the state.

“The Department of Corrections potato project is an example of the state recognizing the value of local farmers as providers of products,” said Ben Kudwa, MPIC executive director. “All parties are to be complimented for sticking to the goal of buying Michigan first.”

“Purchasing Michigan-grown potatoes not only saves state dollars, but also gives an economic boost to state producers and local communities,” said Don Koivisto, Michigan Department of Agriculture director. “When $1 is spent locally, that $1 impacts three to seven different local businesses before leaving the local economy.”

For more information on the “Buy Michigan First” directive, www.michigan.gov/buymichiganfirst.