A spirit of collaboration and optimism was on full display as farmers, commodity groups and industry partners gathered for the Celebrate Michigan Agriculture event at the State Capitol March 17.
Hosted by GreenStone Farm Credit Services, the event brought together nearly 30 organizations, including Michigan Farm Bureau, to showcase the people and partnerships driving the farm and food economy. Displays throughout the venue highlighted Michigan-grown products alongside educational resources and industry insights.
During the lunch program, a panel discussion highlighted both progress and priorities across the sector. Representing MFB, Vice President and District 3 Director Mike Fusilier pointed to the organization’s grassroots structure as one of its greatest strengths.
“We have the opportunity to teach consumers and legislators across the state,” Fusilier said. “That gives us a real voice in decisions being made in Lansing and Washington, D.C.”
He also emphasized the importance of collaboration among agricultural groups.
“We don’t always agree, but we all want to make farmers’ lives better,” he said. “Events like this show how well agriculture works together in Michigan.”
Looking at current challenges, Fusilier said farmers are paying close attention to how policy and regulation impact their operations.
“Our members are talking about the state budget and how it supports agriculture,” he said. “And we keep hearing about the complexity of the regulatory environment — there’s an opportunity to improve communication and make things work better for farmers.”
He added that maintaining a strong connection with policymakers remains essential to agriculture’s future.
“We need more people with an agriculture background involved in the state legislature,” Fusilier said. “When they understand what’s happening on the farm, it makes a difference in the decisions being made.”
Despite the challenges, Fusilier said Michigan agriculture’s diversity and adaptability continue to drive opportunity.
“The diversity we have — from large farms to niche operations — is a huge strength,” he said. “And seeing young people step into leadership roles is really exciting.”
To mark the occasion, Sen. Roger Victory (R-Hudsonville) sponsored a resolution recognizing March as Agriculture Appreciation Month, underscoring the importance of the industry statewide.
Panelists agreed the future is bright, fueled by innovation and growing consumer awareness. Jamie Clover Adams of Michigan Asparagus pointed to increasing demand for healthier food choices as a key driver.
“People understand they need to eat fruits and vegetables, and that’s not a trend that’s going away,” she said.
Scott Piggott of Michigan Corn emphasized agriculture’s broader impact on communities and the economy.
“I think those two words can align everybody in this room — rural prosperity,” he said. “The opportunities we have in agriculture… will lift all boats.”
And for dairy, that future is rooted in continued investment and innovation, according to Scott Corin of Dairy Farmers of America.
“Farmers are true optimists,” he said. “They’re investing not only in their farms, but in processing and the future of the industry.”
Together, the panelists’ perspectives reinforced a shared message: Michigan agriculture’s strength lies in its people — and its willingness to work forward, together.