Growing Michigan Markets: 11 vendors join new state initiative

What’s Happening: The first round of participants in Michigan’s new Farmers to Markets Program has been announced by the state Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) and the Michigan Farmers Market Association. The program aims to strengthen local food supply chains by helping farmers build steady sales, making fresh produce easier for families to find, and bringing more shoppers to markets across the state.

Participating markets: Eleven farm businesses are participating at five markets across the state—Port Huron, Manistique, Menominee, Northwest Detroit, and Williamston. The vendors will receive tailored marketing strategies and hands-on guidance through a partnership with Traverse City agency Taste the Local Difference. 

Who are the vendors: Down to Earth Mushroom Co., Schmitz Dairy, Andrzejewski Farms, Spanky Lee s Meat Wagon (Port Huron): Demers Farm,  Furlong Creek Farm (Manistique); Oz Family Farms (Menominee); Urban Bush Sistahs Community & Market Garden, Oakland Avenue Urban Farm (Norhtwest Detroit) ; and Coleen s Greens and Three Lakes Gardens (Williamston).

What They’re Saying: “Farmers to Markets is a first-of-its-kind investment that will increase market opportunity for vendors and provide Michiganders with more access to healthy, locally grown food,” said Tim Boring, who is director of MDARD. “As our Farm to Family Program continues to travel the state to understand the needs of our communities, we’re hearing consistently that the demand for local foods is growing, but barriers exist for market entry and participation.” 

What’s next: The selected farms will begin implementing their customized marketing plans throughout the active season to grow their market presence. Community members can visit participating markets to support these expanding vendors. 

Information: Visit MDARD’s Farm to Family Program.