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MI ag budget proposal brings new funding to supply chain

Michigan governor Gretchen Whitmer’s proposed budget could provide new grant opportunities to the state’s food and ag industry.

Acting Director of the Department of Agriculture and Rural Development Kathy Angerer tells Brownfield a one-time request for $10 million will help implement a statewide approach to smart agriculture principles as part of the Michigan Healthy Climate plan.

“Of course, it’s going to include education, technical help,” she says.  “The whole program as it’s written is still being put together—this would be implemented in next year’s budget.”

The Pesticide and Plant Pest Management Division will oversee the initiative which is expected to support farmers adopting best management practices to improve soil health, store carbon, and utilize greenhouse gas emissions while also protecting water quality and funding research.

The budget proposal also includes $37.5 million in one-time funding for a new grant program to focus on extended pieces of the state’s food supply chain like distribution and storage facilities.