Northwest Michigan's Farm Factor
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Agriculture contributes substantially to the economy of the six-county northwest Lower Michigan region. Ample opportunities also exist to significantly expand its economic footprint.
See the Local Difference
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Regional food systems become essential ingredient for Michigan's future
Perspectives from Surveys of Northwest Michigan Growers and Buyers
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The northwest Michigan region is home to almost a quarter-million people and hosts around 50 percent more seasonal residents and tourists through the year. It also has a diverse and unique agricultural industry that is struggling as rapid development inflates land values and economic pressures drive down prices for agricultural products. The region's growing population and vibrant tourist industry, however, together make a potentially large market for local farm products. To the extent that local growers can better access this market, greater local food sales could help the agricultural industry survive, and even thrive, in the face of population growth and development.
