April 04, 2013
LANSING, Mich. - Gov. Rick Snyder today announced the appointment of Arthur Lister, of Ludington, and the reappointment of Tony Blattner, of Lowell, to the Michigan Apple Committee.
Established in 1965, the seven-member committee coordinates market development, educational activities and research for the state's apple industry. Michigan is home to more than 800 apple growers and the industry accounts for more than $770 million annually in total economic impact.
"Michigan is the third-largest apple producing state in the nation, and I am pleased to see the expertise of these two individuals at the forefront of this important industry," Snyder said.
Representing District 5, Lister is the owner of Lister Orchards, a 900-acre farm producing apples, tart cherries, sweet cherries, peaches, pears and plums. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in horticulture from Michigan State University. He will replace Scott Lewis on the committee.
Representing District 4, Blattner is the owner of Twin Bee Orchards, which farms 125 acres of apples. He also serves as director of field operations for BelleHarvest Sales. Blattner earned a bachelor's degree in horticulture from Michigan State University.
Appointees will serve three-year terms expiring April 1, 2016, and their appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Senate.
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