5 Ways to Support Local Agriculture in Your Michigan Community

Michigan has a rich agricultural heritage. From crops like blueberries, to cherries, to apples to pumpkins and much more, our Michigan farmers grow an abundance of wonderful produce. Supporting local agriculture provides sustainability by reducing carbon emissions, minimizing food waste and keeping money in the community supporting local jobs. Here are 5 ways you can support agriculture in your community.

1. Shop at Farmers Markets
   • Shopping at farmers markets is a great way to support local agriculture. Farmers markets provide fresh, seasonal produce, connection to farmers and sustainability.
   • Some popular Michigan farmers markets are the Eastern Market in Detroit, and the Fulton Street Market in Grand Rapids, but most communities have a wonderful market with fresh produce. Be sure to research the nearest farmers market to you.
2. Become a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) Member
   • A CSA consists of a community of members who pledge to support a farm operation. This links farmers directly with consumers as a way for people to buy local, seasonal food straight from a nearby farm.
   • In a CSA, a member purchases a share from the farmer, the farm grows the food, and then the member receives regular deliveries or pickups of fresh food. Find a CSA near you by visiting LocalHarvest.org.
3. Buy Local Products at Grocery Stores
   • Simply just shopping for local groceries on your next grocery trip can help support local agriculture. Look for labels such as “Michigan Grown” or “Made in Michigan.”
   • Some common brands to look for are Cherry Republic, Country Dairy, Kellogg’s, Faygo and more.
4. Support Local Ag Events
   • Visiting local agriculture events also helps support Michigan farmers. Consider visiting u-pick farms, harvest festivals, farm tours and more.
   • Some common seasonal events in Michigan are Tulip Time, Michigan Cherry Festival, and local county fairs.
5. Advocate and Educate
   • Staying educated on local agriculture policies and programs helps keep communities in the know.
   • Consider joining organizations like local food councils and of course, Michigan Farm Bureau.

Supporting Michigan agriculture helps provide sustainability, support and much more for our local farmers. What’s one way that you can support local agriculture this month? 

^Sources: 

_{^{https://www.nal.usda.gov/farms-and-agricultural-production-systems/community-supported-agriculture}}

_{^{https://www.localharvest.org/csa/}}