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Michigan’s growing ag industry on display in Lansing

 

The head of the Michigan Department of Agriculture says expanding food and ag processing will remain a priority area for the state.

Newly appointed Director Gordon Wenk tells Brownfield the state is continuing to invest in ag processing with a strategic growth initiative which supports projects that add value to Michigan’s ag economy.  “We want to make sure that we help ag processing businesses, value-added ag processing businesses, expand in the state of Michigan or come to the state of Michigan.”

Wenk says with more than 300 commodities produced in the state, there are endless ways for products made in Michigan to stay in Michigan.

That diversity was on display Tuesday in Lansing for Ag Day at the Capitol. Wenk says the event and many others planned throughout March as part of Food and Ag Month help the industry better connect with consumers.  “The more educated the consumer is about what is available in terms of Michigan products, either processed of fresh, the better off we all are.”

Lt. Governor Brian Calley also unveiled the Michigan Agriculture magazine during the event which is distributed across all Michigan welcome centers and area businesses to help educate the public about ag industry.

AUDIO: Interview with Director Gordon Wenk