LANSING – Representative Mike Simpson (D-Jackson), Chair of the House Agriculture Committee, today took committee members on a tour of Thumb-area sugar, dry bean and ethanol producers in order to show them first-hand the needs and issues related to Michigan's agricultural industry.
"Agriculture is Michigan's second-largest industry and one of the only areas where we are seeing job growth and economic development," Simpson said. "It's important that our lawmakers on the Agriculture Committee understand what our farmers and agricultural businesses need to continue prospering. These producers and food processors are a key part of Michigan's agricultural industry, and it's critical that we focus on this market. Michigan producers like Kellogg's have been providing good-paying jobs for Michigan families for a long time, and by growing this industry, we can attract new businesses and new jobs."
Simpson, who has been working in conjunction with the Michigan Agri-Business Association, was joined by members of the House Agriculture Committee as they toured producers throughout the Thumb, including the Michigan Sugar Company in Bay City, Michigan Ethanol in Caro and two State of the West Milling plants – the dry bean processing center in Reese, and the flour processing plant in Frankenmuth.
"I'm proud to welcome the House Agriculture Committee to the Thumb, where we have always been leaders in making farming both a way of life and a way to make a good living," said State Representative Terry Brown (D-Pigeon). "Our sugar beet and dry bean growers are among the top producers in the nation, and they help feed not only Michigan, but also the world. With renewable fuels, we also are leading the way in diversifying Michigan's economy. Agriculture must be a priority for our Legislature, because the more that we support our farmers' efforts to increase production and expand their markets, the more they and all ag-related businesses will prosper and create the good-paying jobs that Michigan needs."
State Representative Jeff Mayes (D-Bay City), former Chair of the House Agriculture Committee, also called for the Legislature to make agriculture a priority.
"Our agricultural industry is a pillar of our state's economy," Mayes said. "I'm glad that members of the House Agriculture Committee are taking this opportunity to learn about the issues that are affecting the food producers and processors in the Great Lakes Bay Region. In these tough economic times, we must stand behind those who work every day to get food to our table."