Growing up on his grandfather's farm in Engadine helped shape Daryl Schroeder's appreciation for Michigan agriculture and the role it plays in Upper Peninsula communities.
Schroeder recently received the Michigan Farm Bureau AgriPac's "Friend of Agriculture" endorsement in his campaign for the 108th House District. He is seeking the seat being vacated by Rep. Dave Prestin, who is running for the 38th State Senate seat. The district includes Delta, Menominee, Schoolcraft and Luce counties, along with portions of Chippewa and Mackinac counties.
Schroeder said his grandfather's farm taught him lessons that have stayed with him throughout his life.
"I grew up on my grandfather's farm in Engadine, where I learned about soil, planting, caring for crops and raising livestock," Schroeder said. "It was also where I learned the importance of loyalty, a strong work ethic and respect."
Now serving as a Mackinac County commissioner, Schroeder said his priorities include creating more opportunities for working families by encouraging economic growth, investing in education and skilled trades, supporting rural communities and helping businesses and agriculture succeed. He said the Upper Peninsula also needs greater attention from Lansing to address its unique challenges.
Schroeder said food and agriculture remain an essential part of everyday life across the 108th District.
"Food and agriculture in this district is a part of everyday life and survival, especially in remote communities," Schroeder said. "It looks a lot different than downstate because we have smaller-scale generational dairy farms, hay, maple syrup, beef cattle and a growing number of farms that specialize in new crops."
He said he stays engaged by buying local products, supporting farmers markets and listening to producers about the challenges they face each year.
Schroeder identified rising input costs, changing regulations, supply chain disruptions and market volatility as some of the biggest challenges facing Michigan agriculture.
He said strengthening connections between farmers and consumers, improving price transparency from processors and buyers, reducing excessive government regulations and protecting farmland for future generations would help position agriculture for long-term success.
Before running for the Legislature, Schroeder built a career in business, banking and technology, including positions with Ford Motor Company, Reynolds & Reynolds and First National Bank of St. Ignace. He currently serves as a Mackinac County commissioner and previously served six years as president of the Engadine Consolidated Schools Board of Education.
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