A new study will evaluate one of West Michigan's economic "anchors" -- the agriculture industry -- and develop a plan to cultivate its growth and raise its economic profile.
Michigan State University Land Policy Institute and the West Michigan Strategic Alliance have begun developing a report on the status and conditions of the region's agriculture to serve as a foundation for development of a regional agricultural plan, according to the Institute's Coordinator, Melissa Gibson.
According to excerpts from the story:
While agriculture is an "anchor, a key part of our economy," many people look at agriculture as a temporary use of the land that just hasn't been developed yet, Gibson said. The report aims to change that.
"(Agriculture) is a vital use," she said. "One of the critical challenges it faces is the limited appreciation by the public. Part of the reason for the report was so the public knows the true value of agriculture."
Read the story here
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