Governor Gretchen Whitmer is a lifelong Michigander. She is a lawyer, an educator, former prosecutor, State Representative and Senator. She was the first woman to lead a Senate caucus. But the most important title she boasts is MOM. Inspired by her family, she’s devoted her life to building a stronger Michigan for everyone.
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March 01, 2020
WHEREAS, March signifies a national celebration of the importance of food and agriculture in the United States and provides a unique opportunity to recognize and celebrate the diversity and abundance of Michigan’s farms and our growing food and agriculture sector; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan’s rich and varied soil types and proximity to the Great Lakes, one of the world’s largest surface freshwater ecosystems, paired with dedicated producers of food and agricultural products, make our state a leader in the production of an abundant array of crops and agricultural opportunities; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan’s 47,000 farms, with an average of 209 acres per farm, provide consumers with food and fiber on nearly 10 million acres of farmland, helping to make the food and agriculture industry one of our state's critical economic drivers, contributing $104.7 billion to our state's economy each year; and,
WHEREAS, production agriculture, food processing, and related businesses comprise a large portion of the state’s workforce, employing 805,000 people or 17.2 percent of our population and producing more than 300 agricultural commodities, making Michigan one of the most agriculturally diverse states in the nation; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan's integrated network of family farmers, processors, wholesalers, retailers, and consumers work to ensure a safe and nutritious food supply enjoyed by millions throughout our state, nation, and across the globe; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan consumers, restaurateurs, and retailers prefer purchasing Michigan grown and processed food and agriculture products for their freshness and quality, and each local food purchase strengthens our communities and family farmers, which in turn helps preserve our state’s rich farmland; and,
WHEREAS, Michigan’s food and agricultural sector continues to grow, offering new business and career opportunities for Michiganders.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim March 2020 as Food and Agriculture Month in Michigan.