Midwest
Ohio House passes bill to help farmers overcome land access challenges
On June 28, by a vote of 96-1, the Ohio House passed House Bill 95, which could clear a major hurdle for the next generation of Ohio farmers and provide greater resilience to Ohio’s food... more »
President Biden Visits USApple member; hears about challenges facing growers
During a stop in northern Michigan on July 4, President Joe Biden visited grower and former U.S. Apple Association Young Apple Leader Juliette King McAvoy of King Orchards in Central Lake. Joining the president were... more »
Michigan agencies recognize farm workers who plant, harvest state’s crops
Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has proclaimed July as Migrant and Seasonal Farmworker Appreciation Month, providing the opportunity for Michiganders to support and appreciate this valuable workforce. In celebration, the Michigan departments of Agriculture and Rural... more »
Michigan reverses mandatory testing for ag, food processing employees
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has rescinded its order requiring COVID-19 testing for agricultural employees. This change, announced June 2, is being made in light of increasing vaccination rates; declining COVID-19 cases;... more »
Michigan ag department celebrates 100 years of service
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) marked a milestone today: the 100th anniversary of the department’s creation. Then known as the Michigan Department of Agriculture, the department was created by Act 13,... more »
MiFarmLink: A one-stop shop for new farmers to find land and resources
Michigan agriculture is in transition. According to the U.S. Census of Agriculture from 2017 conducted by the USDA, nearly a third of the state’s farmers are aged 65 and over while new and beginning farmers currently make up... more »
Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition set
The 15th Annual Great Lakes International Cider and Perry Competition (GLINTCAP) is officially rescheduled for July 28-30, at the Embassy Suites Grand Rapids Downtown in Grand Rapids, Michigan Entry registration for the 2021 event will... more »
MDARD grants include several specialty crop operations’ projects
The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development on June 30 awarded Value Added and Regional Food System grants to 18 Michigan producers, processors and community development organizations. The grants are designed to help retain,... more »