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Michigan Corn Growers Association turns 50

Michigan Corn Growers Association members are reminiscing about their roots as part of their golden anniversary.

Southeast grower Doug Darling tells Brownfield his father was a founding farmer in 1972 when corn was only $1.10 per bushel.

“They wanted to see greater research, they wanted to see development of greater demand—how do we promote our commodities, our products overseas—what are the different uses?” he shares.

He says establishing a corn checkoff along with building the state’s ethanol sector have been two of the major successes.

“Producing 53 million gallons of ethanol helps lower our costs of filling up our cars every day at our gas stations so not only did it benefit our corn growers, but it’s benefited our consumers,” he says.

Darling says the work of the association remains relevant as high costs, supply chain shortcomings, regulations, and other issues persist.