Midwest

US tart cherry industry continues to fight ‘unfair trade practices’

On Tuesday, Jan. 21, the Cherry Marketing Institute filed a complaint with U.S. Customs and Border Protection to investigate suspicious shipments of tart cherry juice concentrate from Brazil. According to a news release, the Cherry Industry Administrative Board... more »

Michigan cherry industry still trying to absorb tariff loss to Turkey

The tart cherry businesses of northwest Michigan, that have seen quite some hard economic times lately, were among the hundreds of fruit growers, processors, researchers, vendors and promoters assembled Feb. 14-15 at Grand Traverse Resort... more »

Michigan commission elects 2020 officers, welcomes new member

During its regularly scheduled meeting on Jan. 22, the Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development elected its new officers for 2020 and welcomed new Commissioner Tim Boring. Brian Pridgeon of Montgomery was elected chair... more »

Indiana Horticultural Conference and Expo features hemp discussion

Hemp production, a hot topic in Indiana agriculture, will be covered from multiple angles at the upcoming Indiana Horticultural Conference and Expo on Feb. 11-13 in Indianapolis. Bryan Parr of Legacy Hemp will focus on the production... more »

Michigan fruit processor plans major expansion with support from state, partners

The Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development on Jan, 22 approved a $135,000 performance-based Food and Agriculture Investment Fund grant to Peterson Farms, located in Shelby, Michigan. Already Oceana County’s largest employer, Peterson Farms... more »

Food and Agriculture Housing Task Force created in Michigan

Michigan’s food and agriculture workforce traditionally consisted of the self-employed and family members, but the trend has been showing a sharp increase in the need to hire additional labor within the food and agriculture communities.... more »

Michigan Family Farms Conference brings education, resources to small-scale farmers

Winter brings many opportunities for Michigan farmers to engage in conferences across the state that support their continuing education and brings them together around a common interest and fellowship. One such conference is the Michigan Family... more »

Congressman calls for federal agencies to hold ag hearing in west Michigan

Blueberry, cherry and asparagus growers being significantly impacted by “questionable trade practices” are gaining support from Congressman Bill Huizenga, R-Michigan, who wants a field hearing to be held in west Michigan by the U.S. Department... more »